Causeway Coast Road Trip

The Causeway Coast Road Trip is a great way to explore Northern Ireland. Starting in Ballycastle and ending in Londonderry, the route covers a distance of around 110km and can be completed in two days. The best time of year to take the trip is in the spring or summer, when the landscapes and beaches along the route are at their most beautiful. On the way, you'll pass through Bushmills, Portrush and Portstewart, all of which feature attractions such as the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of the Giant's Causeway and the Old Bushmills Distillery, as well as stunning coastal views. The roads are generally in good condition, although some parts can be narrow and winding. The Causeway Coast Road Trip promises an unforgettable experience and is suitable for all drivers, regardless of budget. With its stunning sights and memorable moments, it's a great way to explore Northern Ireland.

Ballycastle is a charming harbour town located in Northern Ireland and is the perfect starting point for the Causeway Coast Road Trip. With its stunning views of the ocean and its gorgeous beaches, Ballycastle is a perfect spot to begin your journey. The town is home to the famous Fairhead Cliffs, which are a great place to explore and take photographs. The cliffs are also home to a variety of wildlife, which can be spotted from the cliffs. There is also the 18th century O'Cahan's Castle, which is a great place to explore the history of the town. The town also has a variety of shops, pubs, and restaurants, so you can find a range of different experiences to enjoy. For those who want to explore the outdoors, there are plenty of trails to explore, and the town is also a great place to take in some of the stunning views of the Irish countryside. For those who are traveling by air, the closest international airport is Belfast International Airport (BFS). There are car rental companies at the airport which can provide you with the perfect vehicle to start your Causeway Coast Road Trip. Ballycastle is a great place to start your journey and explore the stunning scenery of Northern Ireland. With its spectacular views, historical sites, and variety of activities, it's the perfect place to begin the Causeway Coast Road Trip.

Embark on a 24km road trip from Ballycastle to Bushmills, an adventure that will take you less than an hour! Along the way, you'll be able to admire picturesque landscapes, scenic roads, and some of Northern Ireland's most important historical sites. Take a detour to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Giant's Causeway, a unique rock formation of around 40,000 basalt columns formed by an ancient volcanic eruption. Then, continue to the iconic Dunluce Castle, located on the edge of a basalt outcropping. Make sure to stay alert, as some sections of the road may be narrow. This is one of the stages of a larger tour, so for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

Embark on a scenic 10km road trip from Bushmills to Portrush in Northern Ireland. The journey will take less than an hour, and you will be rewarded with stunning views along the way. Sections of the road are narrow so be sure to pay attention to the surroundings. Visit the famous Bushmills Distillery, the oldest distillery in Ireland, and the majestic Giant’s Causeway, an area of 40,000 interlocking basalt columns formed by an ancient volcanic eruption. Afterwards, you can explore the picturesque town of Portrush and its beaches. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy the journey!

Get ready for an unforgettable road trip starting in Portrush, Northern Ireland and ending in Portstewart, only 6 km away! With a driving time of less than 1 hour, you will have plenty of time to explore the most interesting places along the way. Make sure to keep an eye out for the scenic road - in some sections it will be quite narrow. You will find plenty of places to visit, such as Dunluce Castle, the Giant's Causeway, and the White Rocks Beach. Don't forget to check out the great restaurants, accommodation options, and campsites available in the area. For more information, take a look at the itinerary of this stage of the tour. Enjoy your journey!

Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Portstewart to Castlerock! The 22 km drive takes less than an hour and is full of stunning sights. Enjoy the winding roads and narrow sections, as well as the breathtaking views of the countryside. Keep an eye out for the charming towns, quaint villages, and picturesque beaches along the way. You can stop for a picnic at the Portstewart Promenade, or take a stroll along the Castlerock Beach to enjoy the fresh sea breeze. Don't forget to take a photo of the Mussenden Temple, an 18th-century clifftop library with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Castlerock to Londonderry! This 48km journey will take you less than an hour, but don't forget to take your time and enjoy the stunning views along the way. Make sure to pay attention to the historical sites and the scenic roads that you'll pass by. In some sections the road may be a bit narrow so be sure to drive safely. On your way, make sure to visit the iconic Downhill Beach and Mussenden Temple. The beach is renowned for its breathtaking views and the temple is an 18th century relic. If you're looking for a place to stay, the City of Londonderry is the perfect destination. There, you'll find plenty of accommodation options, restaurants, and campsites. For more information about attractions, accommodation, and other things to do, please check the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

Londonderry in Northern Ireland is the perfect ending point for the Causeway Coast Road Trip. This stunning coastal city is full of history and culture, and is a great spot for a few days of exploration. The city's 400-year-old walls are one of the most popular attractions. Visitors can take a guided walking tour to explore the city's rich history, or take in the stunning views of the River Foyle from the walls. The Tower Museum is a must-see for anyone visiting the city. This interactive museum tells the story of the city and its people, from the Stone Age through to the present day. For nature enthusiasts, the city is home to several beautiful parks and gardens. St. Columb's Park is the oldest park in the city, while the Peace Garden is the perfect spot to relax and take in the views of the city. The city is also home to some great pubs and restaurants, where visitors can sample some traditional Irish cuisine. A visit to the city would not be complete without a visit to the famous Guildhall, which is one of the most iconic buildings in the city. Finally, for those traveling by air, the closest international airport to Londonderry is City of Derry Airport (LDY). In short, Londonderry is the perfect ending point for the Causeway Coast Road Trip. With its stunning views, rich history and culture, and great restaurants, it is an ideal destination for a few days of exploration.

Before you set off

The Causeway Coast Road Trip is a captivating exploration of Northern Ireland's breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural history. Extending about 110km from Ballycastle to Londonderry, this picturesque route can be leisurely enjoyed over two to three days, allowing for ample time at each awe-inspiring stop.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

As Roadtrippers traverse this coastal route, they will be greeted by the geological wonder of the Giant's Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famed for its unique basalt columns formed by ancient volcanic activity. Whiskey enthusiasts can savor a visit to the Old Bushmills Distillery in Bushmills, the oldest licensed distillery in the world. The vibrant seaside towns of Portrush and Portstewart offer not only beautiful coastal views but also a chance to experience local cuisine and hospitality. The medieval Dunluce Castle, perched dramatically on the cliffs, and the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, swaying high above the waves, are also iconic stops on this journey.

Best Time to Go:

The Causeway Coast is most enchanting during the late spring and summer months, from May to September, when the longer days and milder weather provide the perfect conditions for exploring the cliffs, beaches, and coastal paths.

Potential Risks:

Drivers should remain vigilant for the occasional narrow and winding sections of the Road, especially during peak tourist seasons when the route can be busy with other travelers.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

The Causeway Coast Road Trip is inclusive and offers experiences for various interests and budgets, from luxury accommodations to charming bed and breakfasts. The region's compelling history can be uncovered through the ruins of castles and the stories of the locals. Furthermore, HBO's epic series `Game of Thrones` filmed numerous scenes along the coast, with locations like the Dark Hedges and Ballintoy Harbour being fan favorites.

A good choice for:

The Causeway Coast Road Trip is a stellar journey through the heart of Northern Ireland, weaving together the spellbinding natural splendor of the Emerald Isle with the deep-seated narratives of its people and past. It's an unmissable experience for those drawn to the raw beauty of coastal landscapes and the rich tapestry of history and legend.