Ballintoy Harbour

Location

About

Ballintoy Harbour is a stunning and picturesque tourist attraction located in the charming village of Ballintoy in County Antrim, Northern Ireland. This small and secluded harbor has become a popular tourist destination, especially for fans of the popular television series Game of Thrones, as it was used as a filming location for the show. However, even if you are not a fan of the series, there are many reasons why a visit to Ballintoy Harbour is a must-see on your trip to Northern Ireland.

One of the most notable features of Ballintoy Harbour is its stunning scenery. The natural beauty of the harbor is truly breathtaking, with crystal-clear water, rocky cliffs, and colorful fishing boats dotted around the harbor. The calm and serene atmosphere of the harbor provides a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, making it an ideal destination for those looking to unwind and relax.

As previously mentioned, Ballintoy Harbour was used as a filming location for Game of Thrones, specifically as the Iron Islands in the series. Fans of the show will enjoy walking in the footsteps of their favorite characters, while non-fans can appreciate the stunning backdrop that the harbor provided for the series. Additionally, the harbor is just a short drive from other Game of Thrones filming locations such as the Dark Hedges and the Giant's Causeway, making it a convenient stop for those following a Game of Thrones-themed itinerary.

Aside from its stunning scenery and connection to Game of Thrones, Ballintoy Harbour also offers visitors the opportunity to engage in a variety of outdoor activities. Visitors can take a boat tour around the harbor, enjoy a leisurely walk along the harbor's edge, or hike up the nearby cliffs for an even better view of the surrounding area. The harbor is also a popular spot for fishing, providing a unique opportunity to catch your own dinner.

In addition to its natural beauty and outdoor activities, Ballintoy Harbour is also home to a small village with a range of amenities. Visitors can stop for a meal or a drink at the local pub or enjoy a coffee at one of the nearby cafes. Additionally, the village has several small shops selling souvenirs and local crafts, making it a great place to pick up a unique memento of your visit.

In conclusion, Ballintoy Harbour is a must-see tourist attraction for anyone visiting Northern Ireland. Its stunning scenery, connection to Game of Thrones, and variety of outdoor activities make it a perfect destination for those looking to relax and unwind while also exploring the natural beauty of the area. Whether you're a fan of the show or not, a visit to Ballintoy Harbour is sure to be a highlight of your trip to Northern Ireland.

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Things to do nearby

Ballintoy Harbour, located on the north coast of County Antrim in Northern Ireland, is a charming and picturesque destination that attracts visitors from all over the world. This tiny fishing village is a popular spot for tourists, thanks to its stunning scenery and numerous activities to keep visitors entertained. If you're planning a trip to this beautiful location, here are some places and things to do nearby that you won't want to miss.

1. Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

The Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Ballintoy Harbour. This iconic bridge is suspended over a 30-metre-deep chasm, connecting the mainland to the tiny Carrick Island. The bridge offers spectacular views of the surrounding area, and crossing it is an unforgettable experience. However, be warned that it can be quite nerve-wracking for those who are afraid of heights!

2. Giant's Causeway

Located just a short drive from Ballintoy Harbour, the Giant's Causeway is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Northern Ireland's most popular tourist attractions. The Causeway is a natural wonder, with over 40,000 hexagonal basalt columns that form a series of cliffs and pillars. The area offers breathtaking views of the sea and the surrounding coastline, and visitors can explore the various trails and paths around the site.

3. Dunluce Castle

Dunluce Castle, located just a few miles from Ballintoy Harbour, is a fascinating historical site that's well worth a visit. The castle dates back to the 16th century and was once the home of the powerful MacDonnell clan. Today, the castle is a ruin, but it's still an impressive sight, perched on a cliff overlooking the sea. Visitors can explore the ruins and learn about the castle's rich history.

4. Bushmills Distillery

If you're a fan of whiskey, you won't want to miss a visit to the Bushmills Distillery, located just a short drive from Ballintoy Harbour. The distillery has been producing whiskey for over 400 years, and visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the distilling process and sample some of the award-winning whiskeys produced on site.

5. White Park Bay

For a relaxing day at the beach, head to White Park Bay, a beautiful stretch of coastline just a few miles from Ballintoy Harbour. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking, and the area offers plenty of walking trails and scenic views.

6. Game of Thrones Locations

Fans of the hit TV series Game of Thrones will be delighted to know that several iconic locations from the show are located near Ballintoy Harbour. The Dark Hedges, a beautiful avenue of beech trees, was used as the location for the King's Road in the show. The nearby village of Cushendun was also used as a filming location, as was Ballintoy Harbour itself.

In conclusion, Ballintoy Harbour and its surrounding area offer a wealth of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or just relaxing on the beach, there's something for everyone to enjoy. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable trip to this beautiful corner of Northern Ireland.