Causeway Coastal Route
Coming to Northern Ireland?
Then this is one road-trip you will remember forever! Daubed by some as, "One of the greatest drives on earth".
If you like your road journeys to be full of stunning coastal views at every twist and turn, set the sat nav for the Causeway Coastal Route.
Linking the region's must-see destinations of Belfast and the Causeway Coast, listed as Lonely Planet's Best in Travel 2018 Top 10 Regions, there is no better way to travel between the two.
You will not be disappointed…
Some times in life you have to trek the highest, travel the farthest or pay the most to be rewarded with the world’s most stunning views. Well, here in Northern Ireland we like to make everything just that little bit easier.
A contender for ‘World’s Greatest Road Journey’, the Causeway Coastal Route is 120 miles of contour-clinging, cliff-carving coastal beauty. Yet all you need to experience it is a set of wheels (two or four, no one’s counting), driving gloves and a road map. Even the last two are optional.
People come from around the world to experience the Causeway Coastal Route, and as it weaves its way through Mid and East Antrim, it showcases the best of our Borough’s attractions.
Starting in Carrickfergus at one of Ireland’s best preserved Anglo-Norman castles, the medieval history will transport you back to a time of kings, queens, jesters and dungeon masters.
Back on the road, the journey past the Victorian town of Whitehead and onto the peninsula at Islandmagee will lead you to The Gobbins Clifftop Path - where you can take a rugged coastal walk along its newly-restored 23 walkways and bridges. From The Gobbins, continue on to the port of Larne and beyond, where the Irish Sea bites into the land as the road twists, turns, rises and falls with every topographical detail.
You will be impressed by feats of Victorian engineering (the Black Arch especially) and jawdropping vistas. On clear days, the sea is as blue as the sky and you can spot Scotland in the distance. If the weather isn’t as friendly, the journey is just as good with grey skies adding a touch of drama and wind and rain whipping up the waves.
By the time you reach Carnfunnock, the little ones in the backseat may need to burn off some energy. This award-winning park offers adventure playgrounds, gardens, mazes, mini golf and more – all overlooking the ever-present coast that dominates this corner of the world.
At the end of our stretch of the Causeway Coastal Route lie two picturesque villages, each with their own charm. Nestled between the glens and the coast, Glenarm is a conservation area with castle and forest. Smooth down your windswept locks and treat yourself to tea and scones in the walled gardens and tearoom of Glenarm Castle, or visit the jewellery workshop of The Steensons – famed for their Game of Thrones creations.
In Carnlough, take shelter in one of the highly recommended eateries or brave the elements with a steaming parcel of hot fish and chips by the harbour. Food always tastes better when seasoned with some fresh salty air.
From here, the Causeway Coastal Route continues onto the famous Giant’s Causeway and beyond. But before you leave our Borough, take a breather from the roaring seas and turn onto one of the peaceful country roads to Broughshane. Dry stone walls crisscross the countryside and from the top of the barren plateau are stunning views of Slemish Mountain, an extinct volcanic plug that dominates the horizon.
If it all sounds a little bit breath-taking and invigorating, it is.
In such a short distance, and with relative ease and comfort, the Causeway Coastal Route offers a world class experience. A highlight of our Borough will become the highlight of your trip. Enjoy.