Ready to swap city lights for crashing waves and dramatic cliffs? The Northern Ireland beckons! This North Coast of Ireland Road Trip, starting and ending in Belfast’s vibrant energy, is a perfect blend of rugged coastlines, rich history, and a touch of movie magic.
Imagine cruising down the scenic coastline, windows down, feeling the spray of the sea on your face. Your first stop: the Dark Hedges, a hauntingly beautiful avenue of ancient beech trees straight out of a fairytale (or perhaps a scene from Game of Thrones!). Feeling adventurous? Test your nerves on the thrilling Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, swaying precariously above churning waves.
The thrills continue! Delve into the mysterious depths of the Larrybane Quarry, an abandoned site with an otherworldly ambiance. Then, prepare to be stunned by the Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO wonder where thousands of hexagonal basalt columns erupt from the sea like a sleeping giant’s path (legend has it Finn McCool built it!).
No Northern Ireland adventure is complete without a touch of history. Explore the dramatic ruins of Dunseverick Castle, perched on a windswept clifftop, whispering tales of battles and bygone eras.
So, are you ready to write your own Northern Irish adventure? Pack your walking shoes, a sense of adventure, and get ready to be amazed! The North Coast awaits!
North Coast of Ireland Itinerary:
Belfast to Dark Hedges (Approximately 50 miles):
Kick off your epic Northern Irish odyssey at the Dark Hedges, just north of Belfast near Ballymoney. This isn’t just a scenic wonder; it’s a portal to a mystical world. Planted in the 1770s, the magnificent beech trees have intertwined over centuries, forming a dramatic, light-filtering tunnel.
Imagine sunlight dappling through gnarled branches, casting an enchanting glow on the narrow road. It’s a scene straight out of a fairytale – no wonder it became the iconic Kingsroad in Game of Thrones (fan or not, it’s a must-see!).
Early mornings and sunsets are photographer’s gold, offering a magical moodiness. But the Dark Hedges mesmerize any time. Take a slow drive through the tunnel, breathe in the fresh air, and soak up the otherworldly atmosphere.
Need a post-adventure pick-me-up? A handy cafe serves coffee and snacks before you hit the road for your next Northern Irish adventure. The Dark Hedges are just the beginning – the North Coast’s magic awaits!
To National Trust Carrick-a-rede (Approximately 10 miles):
Gear up for your next stop: the heart-pounding Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, managed by the National Trust Carrick-a-rede.. This isn’t for the faint of heart! Suspended 30 meters above the crashing Atlantic Ocean, the bridge will test your nerves and reward you with epic views.
Originally built by salmon fishermen, the bridge now offers a thrilling experience for adventurous souls. Imagine the wind whipping through your hair as you cross the swaying bridge, the salty spray on your face, and the endless blue of the ocean stretching out before you. Keep your eyes peeled for playful dolphins or majestic seabirds soaring on the currents.
Game of Thrones fans, take note! This was the filming location for the dramatic showdown between Balon Greyjoy and his brother Euron. See if you can channel your inner Ironborn while you conquer the bridge (minus the whole, you know, regicide plot).
But the views are the real prize here. The rope bridge offers some of the most stunning coastal panoramas in all of Northern Ireland. Snap breathtaking photos, breathe in the fresh sea air, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
There is a fee to cross the bridge, ranging from 13.50 to 15 Euros for adults depending on the season. But trust us, the experience is worth every Euro!
To Larrybane Quarry (Otherside of the Parking Lot):
Just a short walk from Carrick-a-rede, Larrybane Quarry offers breathtaking coastal views and a fascinating past. In the late 1800s, it was the primary site for producing limestone and dolerite products. But before that, around 800 AD, it served as a large fort with a dry moat for added protection.
Fans of Game of Thrones will also recognize this location, as it was used as Renly Baratheon’s camp where Brienne of Tarth first appears, adding a touch of cinematic magic to your journey.
To Dunseverick Castle (Approximately 5 miles):
Next on your itinerary is a visit to the ruins of Dunseverick Castle, perched dramatically on the edge of the cliffs.
The castle’s history dates back to the 5th century AD, when it was fortified by the chieftain Sobhairce. The Dál Riada, a tribe with strong maritime connections between north-east Ireland and western Scotland, later took over the castle in the 7th century AD. It was then taken by the Earls of Ulster between 1250-1350 AD. After that, the O’Cahan and MacDonnell families used the castle as their stronghold beginning in 1560 AD. Learn about the rich history and the various families who occupied the castle over the centuries.
This historical site also served as a Game of Thrones filming location, representing the Iron Islands. As you explore the remnants of this medieval stronghold, envision the fictional world of Westeros and the intrigue that unfolded within these ancient walls.
Discover Dunluce Castle Along the Coast
If you have some time to spare, continue along the coast to visit Dunluce Castle. This castle served as the MacDonnell Clan’s home base and is also known for its Game of Thrones connection. You may recognize it as the imposing stronghold of House Greyjoy, Pyke.
To Giant’s Causeway (Approximately 3 miles):
Next up the world-famous Giant’s Causeway, a geological wonder and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at the remarkable hexagonal basalt columns that were created by volcanic activity millions of years ago. This natural wonder extends beyond the Irish shore, connecting to Scotland’s Staffa Island. Adding to the allure of the landscape is the mythical tale of Giant Finn McCool. The legend tells of the giant constructing the causeway to challenge his Scottish opponent, Benandonner.
Interested in visiting Staffa? Check out my blog “Discover Scotland’s Marvels: Three Isles Tour – Mull, Staffa, and Iona” .
While not a direct Game of Thrones filming location, this stunning location has inspired the fantastical landscapes of many epic tales, making it a must-visit on your North Coast road trip.
Optional – To Bushmills Irish Whiskey Distillery (Approximately 4 miles):
After a memorable trip to the awe-inspiring Giant’s Causeway, take a short journey to the charming village of Bushmills to discover a different type of Irish gem – the world-renowned Bushmills Irish Whiskey Distillery.
Experience over four centuries of whiskey-making tradition at the Bushmills Distillery, the world’s oldest licensed distillery, dating back to 1608. Take a guided tour to learn about the meticulous process of triple-distillation and how the carefully selected oak casks contribute to the unique flavor of Bushmills whiskey.
Dunseverick Castle to The Gobbins (Approximately 60 miles):
As your North Coast adventure continues, make your way south to The Gobbins, a thrilling cliff path that promises an exhilarating coastal experience. While not directly associated with Game of Thrones, The Gobbins offers a unique blend of natural beauty and human engineering, making it a must-visit on your itinerary.
Note: You can do this walk in the beginning of the day or at the end depending on your preference. However, due to its popularity, it’s important to book your visit in advance to ensure availability. I learned this the hard way when I tried to go without a reservation and found out it was fully booked for the rest of the week. Although I couldn’t fully experience the place, we still learned quite a bit from walking around the visitor center. The cliff walk looked amazing, and I’d highly recommend planning a visit.
North Coast of Ireland Road trip Optional Spot: Torr Head
For skilled drivers with a reliable car, Torr Head is a detour worth taking. Its narrow, winding roads along the rugged coastline offer a challenging yet exhilarating drive. The twists and turns lead to panoramic views of the Irish Sea and Scottish coastline on clear days.
Although we didn’t take this route, we heard great things about it from locals and tourists alike!
To Belfast and the Titanic Museum (Approximately 25 miles):
Twist the scenic coastal route back to Belfast and soak up the stunning ocean views. Reward yourself with a refreshing pint as you arrive in this vibrant city. Belfast effortlessly blends old and new, offering iconic landmarks like Titanic Belfast alongside a buzzing food scene and charming neighborhoods with cobbled streets just waiting to be explored.
Speaking of Titanic Belfast, don’t miss this must-visit attraction! This striking landmark sits right on the site of the former Harland & Wolff shipyard, where the legendary RMS Titanic was built over a century ago.
If you’re interested in extending your roadtrip further, check out my 1 Week Ireland Roadtrip Itinerary!
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