Northern Ireland is a land of breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. One of the most iconic road trips you can take in this stunning region is the journey from Belfast to the Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its unique basalt columns.
Along the way, you’ll encounter a variety of must-see stops that showcase the best of Northern Ireland, from picturesque villages to dramatic coastal views. With a car hire from ArmaghCarHire.co.uk, you can explore this scenic route at your own pace, stopping to soak in the beauty and history of each location.
In this guide, we’ll highlight the essential stops on this unforgettable journey.
Starting Point: Belfast
Belfast, the vibrant capital of Northern Ireland, is the perfect starting point for your road trip to the Giant’s Causeway. Before hitting the road, take some time to explore the city’s rich history, culture, and architecture.
- Titanic Belfast: Start your day with a visit to Titanic Belfast, one of the world’s leading visitor attractions. Located in the heart of the Titanic Quarter, this museum tells the story of the ill-fated RMS Titanic, from its construction in Belfast to its tragic sinking in 1912. The interactive exhibits and stunning architecture make it a must-see attraction.
- Belfast Castle: Situated on the slopes of Cave Hill, Belfast Castle offers panoramic views of the city and Belfast Lough. The castle’s gardens are a great place to stretch your legs before beginning your journey. Don’t forget to visit the Cave Hill Visitor Centre to learn about the area’s history and wildlife.
- St. George’s Market: If you’re in Belfast on a weekend, a visit to St. George’s Market is a must. This historic market offers a wide range of local produce, crafts, and street food. It’s a great place to pick up some snacks for your road trip.
Stop 1: Carrickfergus Castle
Distance from Belfast: 11 miles
Driving Time: 25 minutes
Your first stop after leaving Belfast should be Carrickfergus Castle, one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Ireland. Built in 1177 by John de Courcy, this imposing fortress has stood the test of time and played a crucial role in the history of Northern Ireland.
- Explore the Castle: Carrickfergus Castle offers a fascinating glimpse into Northern Ireland’s medieval past. You can explore the castle’s dungeons, great hall, and battlements while learning about its history through informative displays. The views from the top of the castle walls are also worth the climb.
- Carrickfergus Marina: After visiting the castle, take a stroll along Carrickfergus Marina, where you can enjoy views of Belfast Lough and watch the boats come and go. There are also several cafes and restaurants nearby if you want to grab a coffee or a bite to eat.
Stop 2: The Gobbins Cliff Path
Distance from Carrickfergus Castle: 12 miles
Driving Time: 30 minutes
Continue your journey along the scenic Causeway Coastal Route to The Gobbins Cliff Path. This unique attraction offers an exhilarating walk along the rugged cliffs of Islandmagee, with stunning views of the Irish Sea.
- The Gobbins Experience: The Gobbins Cliff Path is a dramatic coastal walkway that takes you along narrow paths, across bridges, and through tunnels carved into the cliffs. The guided tour provides fascinating insights into the area’s geology, history, and wildlife. Be sure to book your tickets in advance, as this popular attraction can fill up quickly.
- Visitor Centre: Before or after your walk, stop by The Gobbins Visitor Centre to learn more about the history of the path and the engineering feat that made it possible. The centre also has a cafe where you can relax and enjoy a hot drink.
Stop 3: Glenarm Castle and Walled Garden
Distance from The Gobbins: 17 miles
Driving Time: 35 minutes
Your next stop is the charming village of Glenarm and its historic Glenarm Castle. As one of Northern Ireland’s oldest estates, Glenarm Castle offers a perfect blend of history, beauty, and tranquillity.
- Glenarm Castle: The castle has been the ancestral home of the Earls of Antrim for over 400 years. While the castle itself is not always open to the public, the beautifully maintained Walled Garden is. This hidden gem features stunning flower displays, ancient trees, and peaceful water features, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll.
- Glenarm Village: After visiting the castle, take some time to explore the quaint village of Glenarm. The village is known for its picturesque harbour, historic buildings, and traditional charm. Stop by one of the local cafes for a cup of tea or a light lunch before continuing your journey.
Stop 4: Cushendun and Cushendall
Distance from Glenarm Castle: 18 miles
Driving Time: 35 minutes
As you continue along the Causeway Coastal Route, you’ll come to the twin villages of Cushendun and Cushendall. These charming villages are nestled in the Glens of Antrim, an area of outstanding natural beauty.
- Cushendun Village: Cushendun is a National Trust village known for its distinctive Cornish-style cottages, designed by architect Clough Williams-Ellis in the early 20th century. The village’s serene atmosphere and beautiful coastal views make it a perfect stop for a peaceful break.
- Cushendun Caves: Just a short walk from the village, you’ll find the Cushendun Caves. These natural caves were formed over 400 million years ago and have gained fame in recent years as a filming location for the TV series Game of Thrones.
- Cushendall Village: A few miles further along the coast, you’ll find Cushendall, known as the “Capital of the Glens.” This lively village offers traditional pubs, friendly locals, and beautiful scenery. If you’re in the mood for a hike, take the scenic walk up to the nearby Lurigethan Mountain for panoramic views of the area.
Stop 5: Ballycastle and Fair Head
Distance from Cushendall: 15 miles
Driving Time: 30 minutes
Next on your itinerary is the seaside town of Ballycastle, a gateway to some of the most dramatic coastal scenery in Northern Ireland.
- Ballycastle Beach: Ballycastle’s sandy beach is a great place to relax and take in the views of Rathlin Island and the Mull of Kintyre in Scotland. The town’s marina is also worth a visit, especially if you’re interested in taking a boat trip to Rathlin Island.
- Fair Head: Just a short drive from Ballycastle, Fair Head is one of Northern Ireland’s most dramatic cliff formations. The towering cliffs offer breathtaking views over the Atlantic Ocean and are a popular spot for hiking and rock climbing. The walk along the cliffs provides an unforgettable experience, especially on a clear day when the views stretch for miles.
- Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge: A short drive from Ballycastle, you’ll find the famous Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. This thrilling attraction allows you to cross a swaying bridge suspended nearly 100 feet above the sea, connecting the mainland to a small island. The views from the bridge and the island are spectacular, but be sure to check the weather, as the bridge can close in high winds.
Stop 6: Ballintoy and the Dark Hedges
Distance from Ballycastle: 10 miles
Driving Time: 20 minutes
As you approach the Giant’s Causeway, make a detour to the picturesque village of Ballintoy and the iconic Dark Hedges.
- Ballintoy Harbour: Ballintoy Harbour is one of the most photographed locations in Northern Ireland, thanks to its dramatic coastal scenery and its role as a filming location for Game of Thrones. The harbour is a great spot for a peaceful walk, with stunning views of the surrounding cliffs and sea stacks.
- The Dark Hedges: The Dark Hedges, located a short drive inland from Ballintoy, is one of Northern Ireland’s most famous natural landmarks. This atmospheric avenue of beech trees was planted in the 18th century and has become a popular tourist attraction, especially after being featured in Game of Thrones as the Kingsroad. Visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds and capture the best photos.
Final Stop: The Giant’s Causeway
Distance from Ballintoy: 8 miles
Driving Time: 15 minutes
Your journey culminates at the Giant’s Causeway, one of the most iconic natural wonders in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-visit destination for any trip to Northern Ireland.
- The Giant’s Causeway: The Giant’s Causeway is renowned for its approximately 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, formed by volcanic activity over 60 million years ago. The unique hexagonal shapes of the columns have inspired legends and folklore, most famously the tale of the giant Finn McCool. Take your time exploring the causeway, walking along the columns, and enjoying the breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.
- Visitor Centre: Start your visit at the state-of-the-art Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre, where you can learn about the geology, history, and mythology of the site through interactive exhibits. The centre also offers guided tours, audio guides, and a cafe where you can relax after your visit.
- Causeway Coast Path: If you’re up for a hike, the Causeway Coast Path offers stunning views of the coastline and takes you past several other natural attractions, including the Amphitheatre, the Giant’s Boot, and the Organ Pipes. The path is well-marked and offers a variety of routes to suit different fitness levels.
Bonus Stop: Bushmills Distillery
Distance from Giant’s Causeway: 2 miles
Driving Time: 5 minutes
Before heading back to Belfast, consider making a final stop at the Old Bushmills Distillery, the oldest licensed distillery in the world.
- Old Bushmills Distillery: Located just a short drive from the Giant’s Causeway, the Old Bushmills Distillery has been producing whiskey since 1608. Take a guided tour of the distillery to learn about the whiskey-making process and the history of this famous brand. The tour ends with a tasting session, where you can sample some of Bushmills’ finest whiskeys. The distillery shop is also a great place to pick up a bottle to take home as a souvenir.
Conclusion
The journey from Belfast to the Giant’s Causeway is one of the most scenic and rewarding road trips you can take in Northern Ireland. With your car hire from ArmaghCarHire.co.uk, you have the freedom to explore this beautiful region at your own pace, stopping at must-see attractions along the way. From historic castles and charming villages to dramatic cliffs and natural wonders, this route offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and breathtaking scenery.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Northern Ireland or a seasoned traveler, this road trip promises to be an unforgettable experience. So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to explore the best of Northern Ireland on this epic journey from Belfast to the Giant’s Causeway.
Ready to start your adventure? Visit ArmaghCarHire.co.uk to book your rental car today and discover the beauty and magic of Northern Ireland on your terms.