Where Giants Once Walked the Edge of the Sea

Northern Ireland's Causeway Coastal Route traces the A2 from Belfast north along the Antrim coast to the walled city of Derry, delivering one of the British Isles' most dramatic shoreline drives. The road hugs rugged cliffs, dips through nine lush glacial glens, and arrives at the Giant's Causeway: 40,000 interlocking basalt columns formed by ancient volcanic eruptions (or, as local legend has it, built by the giant Finn McCool to challenge his Scottish rival). Between the geological wonders, you pass medieval castles perched on sea cliffs, a swaying rope bridge above crashing surf, and filming locations made famous by Game of Thrones. The route finishes in Derry, Ireland's best-preserved walled city, where 17th-century ramparts encircle a vibrant cultural quarter.

Key Stops

Carrickfergus Castle One of the best-preserved Norman castles in Ireland, this 12th-century fortress has guarded Belfast Lough for over 800 years. Its imposing walls and cannon-lined battlements set the tone for a coast steeped in history.

The Gobbins Cliff Path A dramatic Edwardian walkway bolted to the basalt cliffs of Islandmagee, reopened after a multi-million-pound restoration. The guided walk crosses tubular bridges suspended above the sea and passes through a natural cave. Pre-booking is essential.

Glens of Antrim Nine glacial valleys carve through the Antrim plateau to the sea, each with its own character. Glenariff, the "Queen of the Glens," features a waterfall trail through ancient woodland. Cushendall and Cushendun are charming coastal villages tucked into the glen mouths.

The Dark Hedges An avenue of intertwining beech trees planted in the 18th century by the Stuart family, now one of Northern Ireland's most photographed landmarks. Game of Thrones fans will recognize it as the Kingsroad. Visit early morning for the best light and fewest crowds.

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge A 20-meter rope bridge spanning a 30-meter chasm between the mainland and a tiny salmon fishery island. Originally built by fishermen, the bridge now draws visitors for its vertigo-inducing crossing and views toward Rathlin Island and Scotland. Pre-booking through the National Trust is essential in summer.

Giant's Causeway (UNESCO World Heritage Site) The crown jewel of the route: roughly 40,000 hexagonal basalt columns stepping down into the North Atlantic, formed by a volcanic eruption 60 million years ago. The National Trust visitor center provides excellent geological and mythological context. Allow at least two hours to explore the columns, cliff-top trails, and hidden formations like the Wishing Chair and the Giant's Boot. Entry is approximately £15 per adult (National Trust members free).

Bushmills Home to the Old Bushmills Distillery, which holds a 1608 license to distill and claims to be the world's oldest licensed whiskey distillery. Tours run daily and end with a tasting. The village also serves as a convenient base for exploring the Causeway.

Dunluce Castle The atmospheric ruins of a medieval castle perched on a basalt outcrop above the sea, partly collapsed into the waves below. Once the seat of the MacDonnell clan, it inspired C.S. Lewis and served as a Game of Thrones filming location (House Greyjoy's Pyke).

Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne A striking circular library modeled on the Temple of Vesta in Rome, balanced on a cliff edge 120 feet above Downhill Strand. Built in 1785 by the eccentric Earl Bishop, the temple and its surrounding estate offer panoramic views across to Donegal and Scotland.

Derry/Londonderry The route's western terminus is Ireland's only remaining fully walled city. Walk the complete 1.5-km circuit of 17th-century walls for views over the Bogside murals, the Peace Bridge, and the River Foyle. The Tower Museum provides context on the city's complex history from medieval times through The Troubles.

Driving Tips

• The route is well-signposted with brown "Causeway Coastal Route" signs throughout. Follow the A2 for the most scenic sections.
• Roads are generally good but narrow in places, particularly through the Glens of Antrim. Pull into passing places to let oncoming traffic through on single-track stretches.
• Pre-book timed tickets for the Giant's Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, and The Gobbins, especially from June through August. Walk-up entry is not guaranteed.
• The Dark Hedges road (Bregagh Road) is closed to through traffic. Park at the designated car park nearby and walk in.
• Driving is on the left. If you are renting a car, most will be right-hand drive with manual transmission; request automatic in advance if needed.
• Rathlin Island, Northern Ireland's only inhabited offshore island, is a worthwhile detour by ferry from Ballycastle (25 minutes each way) for seabird colonies and Robert the Bruce's cave.
• The naming convention for Derry/Londonderry reflects the city's divided history. Both names are widely used and understood; follow local cues.
• Fuel up in larger towns (Belfast, Ballycastle, Coleraine, Derry), as rural petrol stations can be sparse and may close early.
• For more information visit: National Trust Giant's Causeway