Stretching from Belfast to the historic city of Derry. Taking in some of Ireland’s most incredible sights, the Causeway Coastal Route is a must for explorers.
So settle down in a B&B, cosy cottage or hotel in one of the many welcoming towns or villages, and pick a few gems to explore each day. Like a sip of Bushmills Whiskey, every second on the Causeway Coastal Route should be savoured every step of the way.
Day 1
Belfast city’s iconic attractions and Victorian charm make it the perfect spot to begin your Causeway Coast adventure. Start at Titanic Belfast, an interactive museum that’s an ode to the ill-fated Ship of Dreams. Hear heartbreaking stories about the passengers, discover the detail behind the task of building the ship and dive into the depths with a video exploring the wreckage on the ocean floor.
Just across the road, you can continue investigating the legacy of Belfast’s maritime and industrial past at Titanic’s little sister, the SS Nomadic, and a short walk from here you’ll find HMS Caroline, a Royal Navy ship that is the last survivor of the Battle of Jutland in World War I. If you’re visiting between on a Friday, Saturday or Sunday, explore St George’s Market, a Belfast foodie institution where you’ll find everything from chocolate to local cheese.
Day 2
Feast on local delicacies before cruising towards the Glens of Antrim, and veering onto the coastal paths that will be your Causeway Coastal Route guide.
Toast the Coast with Portia Woods from either Belfast city or the town of Whitehead. Portia’s intimate knowledge of the region’s food and its exceptional bakers, chefs, brewers and distillers is enhanced by the sea views, rolling glens and pretty harbour villages that you’ll be enjoying on the way.
The Gobbins cliff walk has clung to the basalt cliffs of the Islandmagee peninsula for over one hundred years. Pre-book a visit for a one-of-a-kind experience. Walk along the tubular bridge (33ft/10m above the sea) and marvel at the spectacular vistas and abundant wildlife. Cross striking bridges, climb stairways carved into the cliff face and explore hidden smuggler caves as the wind howls and the ocean waves pound the rocks below.
Try a sea tour of the area that takes you from Ballylumford right up to the cliffs. Then head into the busy town of Larne for some rest, relaxation and a delicious meal in the historic Billy Andy’s bar. If you’re brave enough, stay the night at Ballygally Castle Hotel, a stunning, 17th century castle that’s famous for its resident ghost.
Day 3
Stay the night in charming Ballycastle village, then take an early boat over to Rathlin Island – famous for its gorgeous views and native wildlife.
Don’t miss the chance to visit Northern Ireland’s only offshore inhabited island, Rathlin. Chug across the picturesque Church Bay by ferry before landing in the harbour and exploring this L-shaped marvel. With a population of around 140 people, Rathlin is home to some incredible legends.
Take a tour of the “upside-down lighthouse”, Rathlin West Light, one of the Great Lighthouses of Ireland. You can also discover Rathlin’s wonderful wildlife. Look out for seals on the rocks, hares in the fields and seabirds including puffins, kittiwakes, razorbills and guillemots.
Once you’re back on the mainland, pick up a bag of super-fresh fish and chips from Morton’s in Ballycastle – sea bass, cod and haddock, fresh off the boat and mouthwateringly good.
These are just a few things you can do on your trip to the Causeway Coastal Route. For more information visit Causeway Coastal Route.