Self-Drive Tours in Causeway Coastal Route
Ireland
Drive 120 miles of Northern Ireland's Antrim coast from Belfast to Derry — the Giant's Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, the Dark Hedges, and Dunluce Castle on one of the world's great road trips.
Self-Driving in Causeway Coastal Route
The Causeway Coastal Route is a linear 120-mile drive from Belfast to Derry along Northern Ireland's Antrim coast — consistently rated among the world's greatest coastal roads. The route divides naturally into three sections: the Glens of Antrim between Belfast and Ballycastle, the north coast cluster around the Giant's Causeway and Carrick-a-Rede, and the western stretch toward Derry.
The eastern section follows the coast road from Belfast through the nine Glens of Antrim — glacier-carved valleys running from the mountains to the sea. Glenariff, the widest glen, has a waterfall walk through a forested gorge. The coastal villages of Carnlough, Cushendall, and Cushendun are well-preserved stopping points with pubs and harbour views. Allow a full day for this section.
The north coast cluster is the route's centrepiece. The Giant's Causeway — roughly 40,000 interlocking basalt columns stepping into the Atlantic — is Northern Ireland's only UNESCO World Heritage Site. The National Trust visitor centre sits above the columns. Nearby, the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge near Ballintoy is a 20-metre span 30 metres above the sea (book in advance in summer). The Dark Hedges — an 18th-century beech avenue that appeared as the Kingsroad in Game of Thrones — sits inland near Ballymoney. Dunluce Castle and Bushmills Distillery are within 5 minutes of each other.
Northern Ireland drives on the left, the same as the Republic of Ireland. The currency is British pounds (GBP), not euros. Most attractions accept card payment. The route is well-signposted and the roads are good, though the coastal sections are narrow in places.
Our self-drive packages include a diverse range of vehicles with fully comprehensive insurance and zero excess, unlimited mileage, and all tolls covered.
Highlights of Causeway Coastal Route
Glens of Antrim Section
Drive the coast road from Belfast through nine glacier-carved glens. Glenariff waterfall walk and villages at Carnlough, Cushendall, and Cushendun.
Giant's Causeway
Northern Ireland's only UNESCO World Heritage Site — 40,000 basalt columns stepping into the Atlantic. National Trust visitor centre above the formation.
Carrick-a-Rede & Dark Hedges
The 20m rope bridge 30m above the sea (book ahead). The Dark Hedges beech avenue — the Kingsroad from Game of Thrones.
Dunluce to Derry
Clifftop Dunluce Castle ruin, Bushmills Distillery (world's oldest licensed), and the western coast road continuing to Derry.
Sample Causeway Coastal Route Self-Drive Itinerary
A suggested rhythm — yours to bend.
Day 1
Belfast to Glens of Antrim
Collect your car in Belfast and drive the coast road north through the Glens of Antrim. Stop at Glenariff for the waterfall walk. Continue through Carnlough and Cushendall to Ballycastle. Overnight on the north coast.
Day 2
North Coast Highlights
Morning at the Giant's Causeway — arrive before 10am to beat the crowds. Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge (pre-booked). Dark Hedges and Ballintoy Harbour. Afternoon at Dunluce Castle and Bushmills Distillery.
Day 3
Derry & Departure
Drive west along the coast to Downhill Demesne and Mussenden Temple. Continue to Derry/Londonderry — the walled city at the route's western end. Return to Belfast or continue your journey.
Driving Tips for Causeway Coastal Route
Essential Tips for Your Self-Drive Adventure
- 1Northern Ireland uses GBP (British pounds), not euros — most attractions accept card payment
- 2Driving is on the left, the same as the Republic of Ireland — no adjustment needed if arriving from the south
- 3Book Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge in advance for summer visits — timed entry slots fill quickly
- 4Arrive at the Giant's Causeway before 10am or after 4pm to avoid peak coach crowds in July and August
- 5The Dark Hedges is a popular photo stop — park safely on the Bregagh Road and visit early morning for fewer crowds
- 6The coastal road between Ballycastle and Portrush is narrow in places — take it slowly and use passing places
- 7All tolls are included with your rental through our Peace of Mind Package
Frequently Asked Questions: Self-Drive in Causeway Coastal Route
The full 120-mile route takes about 3 hours of pure driving time. With stops at the Giant's Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede, Dark Hedges, and Dunluce Castle, allow 2 to 3 days for a comfortable pace.
Yes. Northern Ireland uses British pounds (GBP), not euros. Most attractions, restaurants, and shops accept card payment. If arriving from the Republic, change currency in Belfast or use cards throughout.
No. Northern Ireland drives on the left, the same as the Republic of Ireland. Road signs use miles (not kilometres) but the driving conventions are identical.
Either direction works. Driving north from Belfast puts the Glens of Antrim first and the Giant's Causeway cluster on day two — a natural progression. Your itinerary can start at either end.
Yes. Dublin is 2 hours south of Belfast. The Boyne Valley in Meath is en route. Many visitors fly into Dublin, drive north through Meath, and pick up the Causeway route at Belfast.
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