Glens of Antrim

The Nine Glens of Antrim are among Ireland's best-kept secrets. These glacial valleys carve through the Antrim plateau, each with its own character - from lush waterfalls to dramatic coastal views. This route connects the most accessible glens along a stunning coastal road.

Why Drive the Glens?

While the Causeway Coast gets the headlines, the Glens of Antrim offer:

• Dramatic scenery - Glacial valleys meeting the sea
• Fewer crowds - A fraction of Giant's Causeway visitors
• Authentic villages - Cushendall, Cushendun, and Waterfoot
• Waterfalls - Including the stunning Glenariff "Queen of the Glens"
• Walking opportunities - Trails for all abilities in each glen

The Nine Glens

From south to north, the glens are:

1. Glenarm - The southernmost, with a beautiful village and castle
2. Glencloy - Small and pastoral
3. Glenariff - "Queen of the Glens" with spectacular waterfalls
4. Glenballyeamon - Remote and rugged
5. Glenaan - Legendary home of Ossian, the warrior poet
6. Glencorp - Wild and relatively unexplored
7. Glendun - Notable for its viaduct
8. Glenshesk - A hidden treasure
9. Glentaisie - The northernmost, near Ballycastle

The Route

Starting from Larne

Begin at Larne, a ferry port with connections to Scotland, and head north on the A2 coast road.

Glenarm

Your first stop is this charming estate village. Glenarm Castle hosts a popular walled garden (open to visitors) and the village has excellent cafes.

Carnlough

A picturesque harbour village with a distinctive white limestone bridge. The Londonderry Arms Hotel was once owned by Winston Churchill's family.

Glenariff Forest Park

The highlight for many - a 1,000-hectare forest park with the famous Waterfall Walk. The 3-mile trail passes three waterfalls through lush woodland. Allow 2 hours.

Cushendall

Known as the "Capital of the Glens," this village is perfect for lunch. The Curfew Tower and traditional pubs make it worth exploring on foot.

Cushendun

A unique village with Cornish-style cottages designed by Clough Williams-Ellis (creator of Portmeirion). The caves here were used as a Game of Thrones filming location.

Torr Head

A spectacular detour to the closest point to Scotland - just 12 miles across the water. The narrow road isn't for nervous drivers, but the views are extraordinary.

Ballycastle

End your journey in this friendly seaside town, gateway to Rathlin Island.

Practical Tips

1. Glenariff closes at dusk - Time your visit accordingly
2. Torr Head road is single-track - Only attempt in good weather
3. Cushendall has the best facilities - Good base for overnight stays
4. Bring hiking boots - Many trails to explore
5. Weather can close in quickly - Pack waterproofs

Best Photo Spots

• Glenariff waterfalls
• Cushendun caves
• Layd Church ruins near Cushendall
• Torr Head viewpoint
• Fair Head cliffs (accessible from Ballycastle)