Causeway Coastal Route

The Causeway Coastal Route is consistently rated one of the world's great road trips. Running from Belfast to Derry along Northern Ireland's stunning north coast, it combines dramatic geology, fascinating history, and breathtaking scenery.

Why This Route?

This drive offers an incredible variety of experiences:

• Giant's Causeway - The UNESCO World Heritage Site of 40,000 basalt columns
• Dramatic cliffs - Including the famous Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge
• Game of Thrones - Multiple filming locations along the route
• Historic castles - Including the romantic ruins of Dunluce
• Whiskey heritage - The world's oldest licensed distillery at Bushmills
• Vibrant cities - Start in Belfast, end in historic Derry

Where to Stay

The 195-kilometre Causeway Coastal Route from Belfast to Derry is a linear drive best spread over two to three days. The Glens of Antrim fill the first day as you work north from Belfast, while the headline attractions -- Giant's Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede, Dunluce Castle, and Bushmills Distillery -- cluster on the north coast for day two. A base at each end of the journey keeps evening drives short.

Belfast

Northern Ireland's capital is the natural starting point, with the widest accommodation choice on the island's northeast coast. Spend an evening in the Cathedral Quarter or Titanic Quarter before setting out along the coast road. Carrickfergus Castle and the first of the Glens of Antrim are less than an hour from the city centre, so a morning departure still gives a full day's driving along the Antrim coast to Ballycastle.

Bushmills

This compact village beside the world's oldest licensed whiskey distillery is the closest settlement to the Giant's Causeway and sits midway between Ballycastle and Portrush. After driving the Glens on day one, switch to Bushmills for nights two and three to explore the Causeway, cross the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, and visit Dunluce Castle without backtracking. The village also puts the Dark Hedges and Portrush within easy morning reach before you continue west to Derry.

The Route

Belfast

Start in Northern Ireland's capital. Spend time exploring the Titanic Quarter, Cathedral Quarter, and vibrant food scene.

Carrickfergus

A Norman castle guards the entrance to Belfast Lough - a dramatic first stop.

The Glens of Antrim

Nine glacial valleys cut into the Antrim plateau, each with its own character. Glenariff is the "Queen of the Glens."

Cushendall & Cushendun

Charming villages with unique architecture and stunning coastal views.

Torr Head

The closest point to Scotland, with views across to the Mull of Kintyre on clear days.

Ballycastle

A pleasant seaside town and gateway to Rathlin Island.

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

Test your nerve on this bridge suspended 30 meters above the sea (booking essential in summer).

Giant's Causeway

The highlight of the route - 60 million years of geology created these incredible hexagonal columns.

Bushmills

Home to the world's oldest licensed distillery (1608). Tours and tastings available.

Dunluce Castle

Romantic clifftop ruins that seem to grow from the rock itself.

Portrush & Portstewart

Popular seaside resorts with excellent beaches and golf courses.

Derry/Londonderry

End your journey in this historic walled city, with its fascinating history and vibrant culture.

Game of Thrones Locations

For fans of the show:

• Dark Hedges - The King's Road (near Ballymoney)
• Cushendun Caves - Where Melisandre gave birth to the shadow
• Ballintoy Harbour - The Iron Islands
• Larrybane Quarry - Renly's camp
• Dunluce Castle - Inspired House Greyjoy

Practical Information

Currency

Northern Ireland uses British Pounds Sterling, not Euros.

Driving

Driving is on the left, same as the Republic. Roads are generally good quality.

Border

There are no border checkpoints between Northern Ireland and the Republic. You may not even notice crossing.

Giant's Causeway

Book your parking in advance during peak season. Consider visiting early morning or evening for fewer crowds.

Rope Bridge

Carrick-a-Rede requires pre-booking and may close in bad weather.

Tips

1. Allow 2-3 days minimum to do the route justice
2. Book attractions in advance during summer
3. Drive during daylight to appreciate the scenery
4. Stay in Bushmills or Ballycastle to be near the main attractions
5. Walk the cliffs - There are excellent coastal paths throughout

Before You Drive This Route

Plan on 2-3 days for the Causeway Coastal Route: the 206km takes roughly 5 hours at the wheel, and the rest is why you came. If this is your first drive in Ireland, read driving on the left in Ireland before you collect the car — the first roundabout is not the moment to work it out. This one is entirely in Northern Ireland, so there are no tolls and distances are signed in miles rather than kilometres; the Irish toll roads guide covers the border crossing if you are driving up from the Republic. Coastal weather changes faster than the forecast admits — the all-season packing guide covers what to have in the boot year-round. If you have not booked a car yet, our guide to renting a car in Ireland covers what to choose and what the desk will ask for, and car hire excess insurance explains the excess you will be asked to cover. More drives in the same corner of the country are on the County Antrim page, and the Antrim Coast & Castles pairs naturally with this one.