Ultimate Eight Attractions along the Causeway Coast

Without a doubt, the Causeway Coast is one of the most popular routes in Europe. Located along the North coast of Northern Ireland, the route takes in some fascinating attractions which draws crowds from all over the world. Here's our ultimate eight must-see attractions when touring this unique coastal route.

Giant’s Causeway

The only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Northern Ireland, the Giant’s Causeway lies at the foot of the basalt cliffs along the North Atlantic Coast in County Antrim. This is a must stop visit if touring the Causeway Coast. Here you’ll find a collection of 40,000 interlocking columns formed from an ancient volcanic eruption. Legend has it the columns were built by Ulster warrior Finn McCool so he could walk to Scotland to fight the Scottish Giant.

Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demense

You may recognise this location from popular TV series ‘Game of Thrones’ and others may recognise it as it’s one of the most photographed locations in Ireland. Either way, Mussenden is a spectacular sight. The temple is perched on a 120 ft cliff top overlooking Downhill Strand. The Temple was built as a summer library and in more recent times has been in danger of being lost to sea due to cliff erosion however the National Trust intervened to prevent the loss of this stunning attraction.

Old Bushmills Distillery

Whether you’re a whiskey drinker or not, a visit to the Old Bushmills Distillery should definitely be on the cards. Ireland’s oldest distillery has been in business since 1608 and has produced one of the finest whiskeys known to man. The Bushmills experience offers guided tours around a working distillery taking in the sights and smells of whiskey production from start to finish. Visitors also get to take part in tutored whiskey tastings where you can taste the Distillery reserve, a rare 12 year Single Malt. 

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

Not for the feint hearted! This rope bridge connects land to sea stack along the Causeway Coast. It truly emphasises the sheer beauty of this region. A short coastal footpath leads to the rope bridge but on the way make sure to take in the natural surroundings as well as the wildlife. It’s interesting to note that the rope bridges’ original purpose was served for local fishermen who could check their salmon nets. But today visitors are drawn to the attraction to take on the challenge of walking across a 65ft high rope bridge. On a clear day you can see all the way across to Scotland!

Dunluce Castle

Dunluce Castle is one of the most romantic and picturesque Castles in Ireland and is a historical gem along the Causeway Coast. The castle can be found on top of the causeway limestone cliffs and is accessed by a connecting bridge. Steeped in fascinating history, there are tales of a lost soldier taken to the deep by a beautiful mermaid while Spanish treasure has been hauled from boats into the secret Mermaid’s Cave below. The castle is a popular attraction in the summer time with a concert being held on the Summer Solstice each year.

Derry-Londonderry

For most, Derry/Londonderry is either the start or finish to the Causeway Coastal Route drive but it’s definitely a place worth exploring. The city is the second largest in Northern Ireland and is one of the most historical places in the country. The most iconic feature of Derry is the city walls built in 1613. The city has come a long way from its violent past of the troubles to become the City of Culture in 2013 and is one of the most visited cities in Ireland.

Royal Portrush Golf Club

If you enjoy a round or two of golf then make the Royal Portrush Golf Club top priority when visiting the Causeway coast. This links course is regarded as one of the top golf courses in the world and with 36 holes on offer, it’s sure to test the best of golfers out there. It’s the only course in Ireland to host the Open championships and is set to host the British Open in 2019.

Glenariff Waterfalls & Forest Park

Glenarriff Waterfalls can be accessed by a 3 mile pass through a National Nature Reserve. If you’re a budding photographer, this trek will be perfect! There are three impressive waterfalls along three different routes. Each route takes in spectacular views of the sea, glens and deep valleys. If you get hungry on the way there’s a great café to boost your energy.

Posted: 22 Jan 2015 by Niall McKee | with 0 comments

Tags: Antrim, Causeway, Game of Thrones