Your Ultimate Guide to Northern Ireland’s Causeway Coastal Route
Stretching from the vibrant capital of Belfast all the way to the rugged cliffs and mystical landscapes of the Antrim Coast, the Causeway Coastal Route is one of Europe’s most scenic drives. Create the perfect Northern Ireland itinerary by combining dramatic ocean views, ancient castles, and natural wonders. This iconic road trip is perfect for exploring Northern Ireland’s culture and the outdoors, and anyone craving an unforgettable Irish adventure.
Where to Start: Belfast — A City Full of Stories
Begin your journey in Belfast, a city with a fascinating blend of Victorian architecture and modern culture. Explore political murals and history in the city’s neighbourhoods, and don’t miss Titanic Belfast, a world-class museum celebrating the story of the iconic ship.
7 Top Stops Along the Causeway Coastal Route
1. Carrickfergus Castle
Just outside Belfast, this 12th-century fortress overlooks Belfast Lough and provides a powerful introduction to Ireland’s storied past.
Built by Norman knights in the 12th century, Carrickfergus Castle has withstood sieges by Scots, English and French fleets, guarding Belfast Lough for over 800 years. Its remarkably intact walls make it one of Ireland’s most compelling gateways into medieval history.
2. Glenarm, Carnlough & Cushendall
Winding roads along the coast lead you past charming harbour towns like Glenarm and Carnlough, which are both great places for a leisurely lunch by the sea. Hike through ancient woodland and waterfalls at Glenariff Forest Park.
Image from Flickr by Umberto NicolettiKnown as the “Queen of the Glens,” Glenariff Forest Park is where ancient oak woodlands meet cascading waterfalls, once providing shelter and sustenance to early settlers in the Glens of Antrim. Walking here feels like stepping into a quieter, older Ireland shaped by nature and time.
3. Kinbane Castle & Ballycastle
Stop for photos at the dramatic Kinbane Castle ruins perched on limestone cliffs. Meaning “White Head,” was built by a 16th-century Scottish clan and dramatically clings to chalk-white cliffs above the Atlantic, offering sweeping coastal views.
image from Flickr by Chris BrooksThen stretch your legs in the lively seaside town of Ballycastle. Ballycastle has long been a vibrant harbour town, historically linking Ireland and Scotland through trade, culture and folklore.
4. Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
Walking the swaying rope bridge across crashing Atlantic waters is a must-do. Originally built by salmon fishermen over 350 years ago, the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge was a practical crossing long before it became iconic. Today, it offers a rare chance to follow in their footsteps while taking in uninterrupted coastal views shaped by centuries of maritime life. The views here are worth every swaying step.
5. Giant’s Causeway: The Star of the Show
This UNESCO World Heritage site is legendary: thousands of interlocking basalt columns formed by ancient volcanic activity. Formed over 60 million years ago and immortalised in legend as the work of the giant Finn McCool, the Giant’s Causeway blends geology and mythology like nowhere else in Europe. Walking among its perfectly shaped stone columns feels both ancient and otherworldly.
Spend some time exploring the rocky pathways and learn the myths behind this dramatic landscape.
6. Dunluce & Dunseverick Castles
Magical ruins like Dunluce Castle, famously poised on cliff edges, make for breathtaking photos—especially at sunset. Dunluce Castle was once a powerful medieval stronghold of the MacDonnell clan, dramatically perched above crashing seas, with stories of feasts, battles and a kitchen lost to the ocean.
Nearby Dunseverick Castle adds even more mythic ambience to your coastal experience. It was believed to have been an early royal site of ancient Irish kings.
7. Bushmills Distillery
Licensed in 1608, Old Bushmills Distillery is the world’s oldest licensed whiskey distillery, where centuries-old methods are still honoured today. A visit here offers an authentic taste of Northern Ireland’s craftsmanship, tradition and enduring spirit.
Discover these stops and more as part of your itinerary by booking with Ormina Tours.
Northern Ireland: Belfast & the Causeway Coastal Route
Northern Ireland’s rugged beauty and turbulent past come to life on this immersive journey along the legendary Causeway Coastal Route. From Belfast’s political murals to the dramatic cliffs of the UNESCO-listed Giant’s Causeway, uncover castles, coastal towns, and Celtic heritage. Please note: this is an active tour with longer walks required to access several key sites.
