Posted: 10th June 2022
What is the Causeway Coastal Route?
The Causeway Coastal route is a 120 mile cliff carving route along the scenic and dramatic Northern Irish coastline. In addition to the white sandy beaches there are a number of attractions to stop and visit along the way. To see some more detail on my top 10 recommended highlights see below.
Also if you would like to continue the coastal journey, the Wild Atlantic Way starts where the Causeway Coastal finishes.
10 Must See Highlights
1. Belfast
Belfast is Northern Ireland’s capital and the birthplace of the mighty Titanic. Today the city has quite a shine to it after going through a recent transformation into a hip hedonism party town. Some Belfast highlights for you….
- Go to the Titanic Belfast to learn about the world’s famous liner and the iceberg wreckage
- Sample some of the top local produce at St Georges Market
- Enjoy a panoramic viewpoint of the city at Cave Hill
- Wander around the Crumlin Road Gaol cells of the notorious jail
- Drink and dance the night away in the lively Cathedral Quarter
2. Gobbins Cliff Path
The Gobbins Coastal Path is an organised 2.5-hour guided tour along one of the most dramatic cliff paths in Europe. Guides will explain the history of the Gobbins and highlight geological features. You may even spot puffins and dolphins on the walk.
Tickets cost £15 for adults and £12 for children.
3. Ballycastle
Sample Atlantic seafood and wash it down with local craft beer in the harbour town and holiday resort Ballycastle. You can also catch the car or foot ferry from Ballycastle and head to Rathlin Island. Ferry Timetable and Book Tickets
4. Rathlin Island
Rathlin Island is an L shaped Island, 6 miles from Ballycastle and home to hundreds of seals and thousands of sea nest birds. A cave can be found beneath the light house which was the hide out place of Robert the Bruce after being defeated by the English King. ‘You may take our lives……’
You can take a guided tour here, hire a bike or take your car on the ferry.
5. Carrick a Rode
Wobble across the 20m narrow rope bridge to the small Island of Carrick a Rede. This stop has become so popular that you need to book hour slot tickets (adult £9.50 child £4.50). The mornings tend to be quieter, many coaches stop here in the afternoon. Book Tickets
6. Giant Causeway
Formed 50 to 60 million years ago, the hexagonal column rock formation is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In very simple terms, the basalt columns were formed from successive flows of lava inching towards the coast and cooling when they contacted the sea.
A short walk away is a visitor centre which includes a better explanation of the geology formation. There is also a guided tour every hour, the tickets are £12.50 for an adult and £6.25 for a child. Book visitor centre
7. Bushmills Distillery
Bushmills have been making whiskey since 1608, they use a blend of Irish barley, water from St Columb’s Rill and then mature the whiskey in Oak Barrels. Learn more secrets of Irish whiskey making on a tour of the distillery, tickets for adults are £9 and children £5.
8. Portrush
Portrush is a holiday seaside town with a beautiful white east strand beach which stretches for 3km. It is also one of Ireland’s top surfing destinations, visit Troggs Surf Shop for lessons and surfboard and wetsuit hire.
9. Downhill / Mussenden Temple
Indulge in the spectacular coastal views and temple ruins from the iconic game of thrones filming location.
10. Derry
Derry is Northern Ireland’s second biggest city and is encircled with a 1.5km 17th century city wall. The city is flourished with art and culture, winning the UK city of culture award in 2013. There are a number of festivals and events during the summer months.
How to Get There
Airport
There are two airports into Belfast, Belfast International Airport and George Best City Airport. Both are close to the city centre. Here you can hire a car or bike or hop on a Causeway Coast guided tour coach.
Ferry from the UK
If you are wanting to take your own car or campervan you can get a number of ferries to Ireland. There are however two ferries which get you close to the start of the route:
- Liverpool to Belfast which runs 17 times daily taking 8 hours.
- Cairnryan to Larne which takes 2 hours and runs 12 times daily.
How Long Does the Route Take?
You can complete the route in 1-2 days but to soak it all up I would recommend a leisurely 3-4 days.
I hope this blog was of some use, enjoy your trip. Much love Emma & Jamie xx
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