Complete guide to driving Northern Ireland spectacular Causeway Coastal Route, including must-stop locations, hidden gems, and practical tips.
The Causeway Coastal Route: Ireland's Most Spectacular Drive
The Causeway Coastal Route is regularly ranked among the world's most beautiful road trips, and for good reason. This stunning 120-mile stretch of coastal road from Belfast to Londonderry showcases Northern Ireland at its absolute best—dramatic clifftop views, pristine beaches, medieval castle ruins, charming harbor villages, and the UNESCO World Heritage Giant's Causeway all connected by a winding route along one of Europe's most spectacular coastlines.
Unlike many famous scenic drives that can feel commercialized or overcrowded, much of the Causeway Coastal Route remains refreshingly unspoiled. You'll drive through working fishing villages, past farms where sheep graze clifftop meadows, and along wild stretches of coastline where the only sounds are Atlantic waves and seabirds.
Having driven this route hundreds of times—both for my own enjoyment and while guiding visitors—I can tell you it never gets old. Each journey reveals something new: changing light on the
cliffs, a rainbow over Dunluce Castle, perfect glassy waves at Portrush, or simply that moment when you round a bend and the view takes your breath away yet again.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know to make the most of the Causeway Coastal Route, from essential stops and hidden gems to practical driving tips and where to eat along the way.
Route Overview and Planning
The Full Route
Start: Belfast
Finish: Londonderry (Derry)
Total Distance: Approximately 120 miles (193 km)
Minimum Driving Time: 2.5 hours non-stop (but don't do this!)
Recommended Time: Full day (8-10 hours) or ideally 2 days with overnight stop
The route follows the A2 coastal road for most of its length, with some sections on minor roads through villages. It's well-signposted with brown "Causeway Coastal Route" signs featuring a causeway stone symbol.
Best Time to Drive
May-September: Peak season with the best weather (though still unpredictable—this is Ireland!), longest daylight hours, and all attractions fully operational. Expect crowds at major stops like Giant's Causeway. June specifically offers the best balance of good weather before peak July-August crowds.
April-May & September-October: Shoulder season offers excellent value. Weather is decent, crowds are manageable, and you'll have many spots almost to yourself. September often has surprisingly good weather.
November-March: Winter brings dramatic storm-watching opportunities and virtually empty roads, but very short daylight (sunset by 4:30 PM) and unpredictable weather. Some attractions have reduced hours or close entirely. Best for experienced drivers comfortable with winter conditions.
Best Day of Week: Tuesday-Thursday tend to be quietest. Avoid weekends in summer if possible, especially Saturdays when both tourists and locals are out in force.
One Day or Two?
One Day Route (Realistic but Rushed):
Leave Belfast by 8 AM, hit major stops (Carrickfergus, Glenarm, Cushendun, Ballycastle, Giant's Causeway, Bushmills, Dunluce, Portrush), arrive Londonderry around 6 PM. This allows 30-45 minutes at each major stop but feels hurried. Best for those with limited time who want a taste of everything.
Two Day Route (Highly Recommended):
Day 1: Belfast to Ballycastle or Bushmills (overnight), taking time to explore the Glens of Antrim, Carrick-a-Rede, and multiple coastal stops. Day 2: Giant's Causeway in the morning (less crowded), then Bushmills Distillery, Dunluce Castle, Portrush beaches, and Mussenden Temple before arriving in Londonderry by evening. This pace allows you to truly appreciate each location, enjoy meals at local restaurants, and not feel rushed.
My Recommendation: If you can possibly manage it, spread the journey over two days. The Causeway Coast deserves time, not a checklist approach. Alternatively, join our guided tour where we've perfected the one-day route to include all highlights without the driving stress.
Essential Stops Along the Route
Carrickfergus Castle (20 miles from Belfast)
Why Stop: One of the best-preserved medieval castles in Ireland, dating from 1177. Imposing Norman architecture right on the harbor.
Time Needed: 30-45 minutes
Cost: £5.50 adults
Highlights: Walk the ramparts, explore the great hall, see the gun placements that defended Belfast Lough for 800 years.
Tip: The town itself is charming—grab coffee at one of the harbor cafes before continuing north.
Glenarm Village (42 miles from Belfast)
Why Stop: Picturesque village at the gateway to the famous Glens of Antrim. Lovely harbor, forest trails, and excellent food.
Time Needed: 30-60 minutes
Highlights: Glenarm Castle (exterior viewing—private residence), harbor walk, Steensons jewelry workshop (goldsmith to Game of Thrones!), cafes and bakeries.
Food Recommendation: The Cottage Kitchen or Walkers of Glenarm (excellent fish and chips).
Cushendun (57 miles from Belfast)
Why Stop: Charming National Trust village with beautiful beach and the famous Cushendun Caves (Game of Thrones filming location).
Time Needed: 30-45 minutes
Cost: Free
Highlights: Cushendun Caves (where Melisandre's shadow was born in Game of Thrones), sandy beach, Mary McBride's traditional pub, Cornish-style white cottages designed by Clough Williams-Ellis.
Tip: The caves are a 5-minute walk from the village car park. Best at low tide when you can enter further.
Cushendall - Capital of the Glens (60 miles from Belfast)
Why Stop: The largest village in the Glens of Antrim, perfect for lunch or a longer break. Gateway to Glenariff Forest Park ("Queen of the Glens").
Time Needed: 45 minutes - 2 hours (depending on whether you visit Glenariff)
Highlights: Red Bay Castle, Curfew Tower (unusual red sandstone tower), Glenariff Forest Park (30 minutes inland—stunning waterfalls, requires 2-hour hiking commitment).
Food Recommendation: Harry's Restaurant or Joe McCollam's traditional pub.
Fair Head and Murlough Bay (Off-Route Detour)
Why Stop: For dramatic clifftop views and one of Northern Ireland's most spectacular but lesser-known beauty spots.
Time Needed: 1-2 hours
Difficulty: Requires minor detour from main route and short hike. Worth it for scenery enthusiasts.
Highlights: Fair Head cliffs (600ft drops), Murlough Bay (voted Ireland's best picnic spot), views to Scotland's Mull of Kintyre on clear days.
Tip: Only attempt if you have time and are comfortable with unmarked country roads. Not suitable for large vehicles or timid drivers.
Ballycastle (72 miles from Belfast)
Why Stop: Charming market town, ferry port to Rathlin Island, and excellent base for exploring the north coast.
Time Needed: 1-2 hours (or overnight stay)
Highlights: Long sandy beach, traditional pubs, Rathlin Island ferry (35-minute crossing to puffin colonies—requires half-day commitment), Marconi's cottage (where he demonstrated radio transmission to Rathlin).
Food Recommendation: Morton's Fish & Chips (legendary!), Cellar Restaurant, The Central.
Overnight Option: Ballycastle makes an excellent overnight stop for two-day route plans. Marine Hotel or Bayview Hotel both offer sea views.
Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge (80 miles from Belfast)
Why Stop: One of Northern Ireland's top tourist attractions—a thrilling rope bridge crossing 30 meters above the Atlantic.
Time Needed: 1.5-2 hours
Cost: £9 adults (must pre-book online in summer—often sold out)
Highlights: The bridge crossing itself (not for those with height fear!), stunning coastal walk to the bridge, views to Rathlin Island, salmon fishery heritage.
Important: Pre-booking is essential March-October. Tickets often sell out days in advance in peak summer. The walk from car park to bridge is 15-20 minutes downhill (meaning uphill return!).
Alternative: If sold out, the Larrybane car park (where you'd park anyway) offers spectacular free coastal views and access to cliff paths.
Ballintoy Harbour (82 miles from Belfast)
Why Stop: Impossibly picturesque tiny harbor, Game of Thrones filming location (Pyke in the Iron Islands).
Time Needed: 30-45 minutes
Cost: Free
Highlights: Dramatic limestone harbor, rocky pools, coastal scenery, small beach, seabird colonies.
Tip: Park at the top and walk down the steep harbor road (care needed). The harbor is tide-dependent—low tide reveals more of its beauty. Combine with the Dark Hedges (20 minutes south) for Game of Thrones fans.
Dark Hedges (Off-Route, near Ballymoney - 88 miles from Belfast)
Why Stop: Northern Ireland's most photographed location—a stunning avenue of 250-year-old beech trees. Famous as the Kingsroad in Game of Thrones.
Time Needed: 30-45 minutes
Requires: 15-minute detour south from coastal route
Cost: Free
Highlights: Atmospheric tree tunnel, photography paradise, Game of Thrones connection.
Best Time: Early morning (before 9 AM) or evening (after 6 PM) to avoid coach tour crowds. Read our complete Dark Hedges photography guide.
Giant's Causeway (90 miles from Belfast)
Why Stop: Northern Ireland's only UNESCO World Heritage Site and the absolute must-see of the entire route. 40,000 hexagonal basalt columns formed by volcanic activity 60 million years ago.
Time Needed: 2-3 hours minimum
Cost: £13.50 adults (includes parking and visitor centre)
Highlights: The iconic basalt columns, coastal cliff walks, award-winning visitor centre exhibition, Atlantic views, geological marvel.
Strategy: Arrive before 10 AM or after 4 PM to avoid peak crowds. The walk from visitor center to stones is 1km downhill (uphill return). Allow time—this is the highlight of the entire route and shouldn't be rushed.
Important: Pre-booking online is highly recommended, especially June-August. The site can reach capacity. Read our complete Giant's Causeway guide for detailed visiting information.
Bushmills Village & Distillery (93 miles from Belfast)
Why Stop: Home to the world's oldest licensed whiskey distillery (1608), charming village, and good lunch options.
Time Needed: 1-2 hours (including distillery tour)
Cost: Distillery tour £10-25 depending on experience level
Highlights: Whiskey distillery tours and tastings, seeing copper stills in action, village pubs and restaurants, beautiful Bushmills salmon pools nearby.
Food Recommendation: The Bushmills Inn (upscale), Tartine at the Distillery (casual), French Rooms (excellent bistro).
Dunluce Castle (97 miles from Belfast)
Why Stop: One of the most dramatically located castle ruins in Ireland, perched on a cliff edge jutting into the sea. Inspired C.S. Lewis's Cair Paravel in Narnia.
Time Needed: 45-60 minutes
Cost: £5.50 adults
Highlights: Medieval ruins in stunning location, views along the coast, history of the McDonnell clan, the kitchen collapse legend (part of the castle fell into the sea during a storm in 1639).
Tip: The exterior views from the car park are spectacular and free. Pay to enter if you want to explore the ruins up close.
Portrush (100 miles from Belfast)
Why Stop: Northern Ireland's premier seaside resort town. Victorian charm meets surfing culture. Home to Royal Portrush Golf Club (hosted 2019 Open Championship).
Time Needed: 1-2 hours
Highlights: Two beautiful beaches (East Strand and West Strand), surfing (lessons and rentals available), Victorian architecture, Barry's Amusements (old-school arcade), excellent fish and chips, lively pub scene.
Food Recommendation: Ramore Wine Bar complex (upscale seafood), Neptune & Prawn (legendary fish & chips), Babushka Kitchen (cafe).
Seasonal Note: Portrush is busy in summer (popular with Irish families) but quiet in winter. Summer evenings have a brilliant holiday atmosphere.
Portstewart (105 miles from Belfast)
Why Stop: Quieter and more genteel neighbor to Portrush. Stunning strand (beach), great food scene.
Time Needed: 1 hour
Highlights: Portstewart Strand (managed by National Trust—one of Northern Ireland's best beaches, sand dunes, can drive on beach), Victorian promenade, Morelli's famous ice cream (since 1911), Harry's Shack beach restaurant.
Tip: Driving on the beach (for a small fee) is a unique experience. Popular with families and surfers.
Mussenden Temple & Downhill Strand (113 miles from Belfast)
Why Stop: Iconic 18th-century circular temple perched on a clifftop 120 feet above the beach. One of Northern Ireland's most photographed buildings.
Time Needed: 45-60 minutes
Cost: £5.50 adults (National Trust)
Highlights: The temple itself (inspired by the Temple of Vesta in Rome), clifftop views, seven-mile Downhill Strand beach below, ruins of Downhill House estate.
Tip: The beach below (accessed separately) is spectacular and much less visited than the temple. Great for sunset walks. Game of Thrones fans: this beach doubled for Dragonstone.
Londonderry/Derry (120 miles from Belfast)
Why Stop: Your endpoint deserves exploration! Ireland's only completely intact walled city, vibrant culture, complex history.
Time Needed: Minimum 2-3 hours, ideally overnight
Highlights: Walking the 17th-century city walls (fully intact circuit—unique in Ireland), Peace Bridge, Bogside murals, Guild Hall, Museum of Free Derry, brilliant food and music scene.
Food Recommendation: Walled City Brewery, Browns in Town, The Sooty Olive.
Note: The city is called both Londonderry and Derry depending on political/cultural perspective. Both are acceptable—locals will understand either way.
Hidden Gems and Off-the-Beaten-Path Stops
Kinbane Castle Headland
Tiny ruined castle on a narrow headland accessed by steep steps. Spectacular but requires effort and care. Free, rarely crowded, incredible views.
Ballintoy Parish Church
Tiny church perched on a hillside overlooking the sea. Simple, beautiful, peaceful. Often used for weddings.
Portbraddan Harbour & Cave House
Tiny harbor (smallest in Ireland?), with several houses built into caves. Quirky and charming. Walk down from Ballintoy area.
Sheep Island View (near Ballintoy)
Roadside viewpoint for Sheep Island just offshore. Great photo spot, often overlooked. Free parking layby.
Dunluce Centre (Portrush)
Not historic—a family entertainment center. But worth mentioning if traveling with kids who need a break from scenery!
Practical Driving Tips
Driving in Ireland: What to Know
- Left-Side Driving: If you're from a right-side driving country, take extra care, especially at roundabouts and on narrow roads.
- Narrow Roads: Many sections have narrow roads with passing places. Be prepared to reverse to let oncoming traffic pass.
- Speed Limits: Generally 60 mph (96 km/h) on rural roads, 30-40 mph (48-64 km/h) in villages. Signs show mph in Northern Ireland.
- Roundabouts: Give way to traffic from the right. Stay in left lane unless overtaking or taking right exit.
- Sheep & Livestock: Common on rural roads. Slow down and wait patiently—they have right of way!
- Fuel: Fill up in Ballymoney or Ballycastle. Stations are sparse along some sections.
Parking at Attractions
Most attractions have dedicated parking (usually £3-5). Giant's Causeway parking is included with admission. In villages, look for designated car parks—don't park on narrow roads or block gates to fields.
Mobile Signal & Navigation
Signal can be patchy along coastal sections. Download offline maps before you leave Belfast. The route is well-signposted, but having backup navigation helps.
Weather Preparation
Irish coastal weather is notoriously changeable. Pack layers, waterproofs, and sun protection (yes, all of them!). Check forecast but don't trust it completely—be prepared for four seasons in one day.
Where to Eat Along the Route
Breakfast Options
- Glenarm: The Cottage Kitchen (excellent)
- Cushendall: McCollam's Bar (hearty Ulster fry)
- Bushmills: Bushmills Inn (upscale), The French Rooms
Lunch Stops
- Ballycastle: Morton's Fish & Chips, The Central Wine Bar
- Bushmills: Tartine at the Distillery
- Portrush: Neptune & Prawn, Ramore Wine Bar
- Portstewart: Harry's Shack (beach location—incredible!)
Dinner Recommendations
- Ballycastle: Cellar Restaurant
- Bushmills: The Bushmills Inn (whiskey-focused menu)
- Portrush: 55 Degrees North, Coast Pizzeria
- Derry: Walled City Brewery, Browns in Town
Best Coffee Stops
- Glenarm: Steensons Gold & Silversmith Cafe
- Cushendall: Lurig View
- Giant's Causeway: Causeway Cafe (visitor centre)
- Portrush: Babushka Kitchen, Ground Espresso Bar
Overnight Accommodation Recommendations
If doing the two-day route, these towns make excellent overnight stops:
Ballycastle
- Marine Hotel: Seafront location, good restaurant, moderate pricing
- Bayview Hotel: Family-run, sea views, traditional
- The Glens of Antrim Hotel: Newly renovated, modern
Bushmills
- The Bushmills Inn: Historic coaching inn, excellent restaurant, whiskey-themed rooms (upscale)
- Bushmills Cottage B&B: Charming, personal, great breakfast
Portrush
- 55 Degrees North: Modern aparthotel, sea views
- Portrush Atlantic Hotel: Large hotel, good for families
- Various B&Bs: Plentiful and generally good quality
Sample Detailed One-Day Itinerary
7:30 AM: Depart Belfast
8:00-8:30 AM: Carrickfergus Castle (30 min stop)
9:15-9:45 AM: Coffee in Glenarm village
10:15-10:45 AM: Cushendun Caves
11:00-11:30 AM: Ballycastle quick stop
12:00-1:30 PM: Carrick-a-Rede (if pre-booked) OR Ballintoy Harbour
1:45-4:00 PM: Giant's Causeway (leisurely—the highlight!)
4:15-4:45 PM: Dunluce Castle
5:00-6:00 PM: Portrush for dinner
6:15-6:45 PM: Quick stop at Mussenden Temple (golden hour light)
7:30 PM: Arrive Derry
Total: Approximately 12 hours with reasonable time at each stop. This is ambitious but achievable with early start and sticking to schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you drive the Causeway Coastal Route in one day?
Yes, but it's a long day (8-12 hours depending on how many stops you make). You'll see the highlights but will feel somewhat rushed. If you have time, spread it over two days for a more relaxed experience. Many visitors opt for a guided tour to see everything efficiently without driving stress.
Which direction should I drive—Belfast to Derry or Derry to Belfast?
Belfast to Derry is conventional and follows the most logical progression of attractions. However, Derry to Belfast works equally well and puts the major highlight (Giant's Causeway) toward the end of your day. Most guided tours go Belfast to Derry to end near Derry-Londonderry Airport for those flying out.
Do I need to pre-book attractions?
Yes, two attractions require pre-booking: Giant's Causeway and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, especially May-September. Both regularly sell out. Other attractions accept walk-up visitors, though buying tickets online in advance can save time.
Is the Causeway Coastal Route suitable for caravans/motorhomes?
The main A2 route is fine for motorhomes and caravans, though some sections are narrow. Several car parks can accommodate larger vehicles. Avoid the Torr Head scenic loop and Fair Head detours in large vehicles. Dedicated motorhome parking exists at Giant's Causeway and several other major stops.
Can you do the Causeway Coastal Route by public transport?
Possible but challenging. The Translink Causeway Rambler bus service runs along the coast in summer, but timing multiple connections for a full day tour is difficult. A guided tour or car rental is more practical for seeing multiple locations in one trip.
What's the best stop for swimming/beaches?
Portstewart Strand is the best for families—long sandy beach, facilities, lifeguards in summer. Ballycastle's beach is lovely. Cushendun has a small beach. Portrush has two beaches popular with surfers. Water is cold (14-16°C in summer), so wetsuits are advisable for extended swimming.
Is it worth hiring a guide or should I self-drive?
Both have advantages. Self-driving offers flexibility and the ability to linger where you want. However, a guided tour eliminates driving stress on unfamiliar roads, provides expert commentary and local insights, handles all logistics, and ensures you don't miss key photo stops. Many clients tell us they're glad they didn't drive so they could fully enjoy the scenery.
Final Thoughts: Taking Your Time on Ireland's Best Drive
The Causeway Coastal Route exemplifies what makes Northern Ireland special—dramatic natural beauty, fascinating history, warm hospitality, and an authenticity that more commercialized destinations have lost. Yes, the Giant's Causeway is spectacular, but so is the quiet moment eating fish and chips overlooking Ballintoy Harbour, or rounding a bend to find sheep blocking the road while a rainbow arcs over the Atlantic.
Having guided this route countless times, I've learned that the magic isn't just in the famous stops—it's in the journey itself. It's in pulling over at an unmarked viewpoint because the light is perfect. It's chatting with a local in a village pub. It's watching storm waves crash against Dunluce Castle ruins. It's that moment you realize you've been smiling for miles because the scenery is just that good.
Don't try to see everything in record time. Pick your priorities, allow for spontaneity, take the coastal detours, stop at the unmarked viewpoints, talk to locals, eat the fish and chips, and embrace the inevitable weather changes as part of the adventure. The Causeway Coastal Route rewards those who take their time.
Whether you drive yourself or join a tour, whether you take one day or three, whether the sun shines or the rain falls (it probably will, at least briefly!), the Causeway Coastal Route will show you Northern Ireland at its absolute best. It's not just one of the world's great drives—it's a journey through landscapes that will stay with you long after you've returned home.
Ready to experience the Causeway Coastal Route? Join our guided tour for a stress-free day covering all the highlights with expert local commentary, or contact us for custom itineraries and insider tips for self-driving. Either way, prepare for scenery that will take your breath away.
Safe travels, and don't forget to look up from your camera occasionally—some moments are meant to be experienced, not just photographed! 🚗🌊
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