Causeway Coastal Route

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About

Northern Ireland is a country rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. One of its most famous tourist attractions is the Causeway Coastal Route, a 120-mile stretch of road that winds along the scenic north coast of the country, from Belfast to Derry. Along the way, visitors can explore some of Northern Ireland's most breathtaking landscapes, including the iconic Giant's Causeway and the stunning Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge. One of the hidden gems along this route is the small village of Ballintoy, which offers visitors a taste of Northern Ireland's rugged beauty and rich history.

Ballintoy is a tiny fishing village located about 10 miles east of the Giant's Causeway. Its picturesque harbor, surrounded by steep cliffs and crashing waves, has been used as a filming location for several popular TV shows and movies, including Game of Thrones and the recent Netflix series, The Crown. For visitors, the village offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and local charm.

One of the must-see attractions in Ballintoy is the historic Ballintoy Harbour. This small, sheltered harbor has been used by local fishermen for centuries, and is now a popular spot for visitors to take a stroll and soak up the scenery. The harbor is surrounded by rugged cliffs and rock formations, and on a clear day, visitors can see all the way to Scotland across the water. There are several small cafes and gift shops located near the harbor, where visitors can grab a bite to eat or pick up some local souvenirs.

Another popular attraction in Ballintoy is the nearby Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge. This famous bridge, which spans a 100-foot-deep chasm between the mainland and the tiny island of Carrickarede, is not for the faint of heart. Visitors must cross the bridge on foot, and the swaying and bouncing can be quite nerve-wracking. However, the views from the bridge are truly spectacular, and the experience is one that visitors will never forget.

For history buffs, Ballintoy offers several interesting landmarks and sites to explore. One of the most notable is the nearby Dunseverick Castle, which was once a powerful stronghold of the ancient Irish kings. Today, all that remains of the castle are a few crumbling walls and ruins, but the site is still an impressive testament to the region's rich history.

Overall, a visit to Ballintoy is a must for anyone traveling along Northern Ireland's Causeway Coastal Route. With its stunning harbor, historic landmarks, and natural beauty, this tiny village is a true hidden gem. Whether you're a fan of Game of Thrones, a history buff, or just looking to soak up some of Northern Ireland's rugged beauty, Ballintoy is definitely worth a visit.

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Things to do nearby

If you are planning a trip to Northern Ireland, one of the most scenic and picturesque routes you should consider is the Causeway Coastal Route. This 120-mile stretch of road runs along the stunning coastline of Northern Ireland and is dotted with quaint villages, historic landmarks, and natural wonders. Here are some of the top places and things to do nearby the Causeway Coastal Route from a tourist perspective:

1. Giant's Causeway

No visit to the Causeway Coastal Route is complete without a stop at the Giant's Causeway. This natural wonder is made up of thousands of hexagonal basalt columns that were formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago. The site is now a UNESCO World Heritage site and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Northern Ireland. Visitors can take a guided tour or explore the area on their own, and there is also a visitor center with interactive exhibits and a cafe.

2. Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

For those seeking a bit of adventure, a visit to the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is a must. This suspension bridge spans 66 feet over a 100-foot drop and connects the mainland to a tiny island that was once a salmon fishery. The bridge was originally built by fishermen over 350 years ago and has since been rebuilt and restored several times. The views from the bridge are breathtaking, and the surrounding area is also great for hiking and bird watching.

3. Dunluce Castle

History buffs will love a visit to Dunluce Castle, a medieval fortress that sits on a dramatic cliff overlooking the sea. The castle was first built in the 13th century and has been the site of many battles and sieges over the centuries. Visitors can explore the ruins of the castle and take in the stunning views of the coastline.

4. Old Bushmills Distillery

For whiskey lovers, a visit to the Old Bushmills Distillery is a must. This historic distillery has been producing Bushmills whiskey for over 400 years and is one of the oldest distilleries in the world. Visitors can take a guided tour of the distillery and learn about the whiskey-making process, as well as sample some of the different varieties of Bushmills whiskey.

5. Ballycastle

Ballycastle is a charming seaside town that is well worth a visit. The town has a long sandy beach, a picturesque marina, and a variety of shops and restaurants. Visitors can take a stroll along the promenade, visit the nearby Rathlin Island, or take a boat tour to see the local seals and dolphins.

6. Dark Hedges

Fans of the TV series Game of Thrones will recognize the Dark Hedges as the location of the King's Road. This iconic avenue of beech trees is one of the most photographed spots in Northern Ireland and is a must-see for any GOT fan. Visitors can take a walk down the tree-lined road and imagine themselves transported to Westeros.

7. Glenariff Forest Park

Nature lovers will appreciate a visit to Glenariff Forest Park, which is often called the "Queen of the Glens." The park is home to a variety of hiking trails that wind through ancient woodlands, waterfalls, and stunning vistas. Visitors can also visit the park's visitor center, which has exhibits on the local flora and fauna.

Overall, the Causeway Coastal Route offers a variety of attractions and activities for tourists of all ages and interests. Whether you are interested in history, nature, or adventure, there is something for everyone along this beautiful stretch of coastline. So pack your bags and hit the road to discover all that Northern Ireland has to offer.