The Giant's Causeway Coast
Rope bridges, basalt column coves, and cliffside castle ruins
Total Driving Distance: 120 miles (193 km) | Recommended Duration: 3 Days | Drive Grade: Easy
Start Point: Belfast | End Point: Derry / Londonderry
Road Trip Itinerary Overview
Widely praised as one of the best drives in Europe, the Causeway Coastal Route hugs the Atlantic shoreline of Northern Ireland. Starting in Belfast, you drive through the scenic Glens of Antrim, cross the heart-racing Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, marvel at the geological wonder of the Giant's Causeway, and view the cliff-hanging ruins of Dunluce Castle before finishing in the walled city of Derry.
Drive Northern Ireland's legendary coastal route past dramatic castles, rope bridges, and the mythical basalt columns.
Key Waypoints & Scenic Stops Along the Route
- Gobbens Cliff Path
- Ballygally Castle
- Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
- The Giant's Causeway
- Dunluce Castle Ruins
- Mussenden Temple
Recommended Places to Stay & Overnight Stops
- 🏨 Ballygally Castle Hotel (Accommodation):
- 🏨 The Bushmills Inn (Accommodation):
- 🏨 Bishop's Gate Hotel, Derry (Accommodation):
EV Charging Stations & Rapid Hubs
- ⚡ eCar Larne Harbour:
- ⚡ eCar Giant's Causeway Center:
- ⚡ eCar Derry City Hub:
Fuel, Petrol Stations & Rest Services
- ⛽ Larne Expressway Services:
- ⛽ Ballycastle Service Hub:
- ⛽ Coleraine Retail Area:
Essential Driving Tips & Seasonal Advice
- You must pre-book tickets for both the Giant's Causeway visitor center and the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge online during high season.
- The Dark Hedges (famous Game of Thrones avenue) is just a short 20-minute detour inland from Ballycastle; go early in the morning to avoid tour buses.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the The Giant's Causeway Coast road trip and what are the main stops?
The Giant's Causeway Coast covers 120 miles (193 km) over 3 Days, rated Easy. It starts at Belfast and finishes at Derry / Londonderry, passing through Gobbens Cliff Path, Ballygally Castle, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, The Giant's Causeway, Dunluce Castle Ruins, Mussenden Temple.
Where are the EV charging stations on The Giant's Causeway Coast?
eCar Larne Harbour: Fast EV charging available. eCar Giant's Causeway Center: Fast EV charging available. eCar Derry City Hub: Fast EV charging available.
Where are the best places to stay along The Giant's Causeway Coast?
Ballygally Castle Hotel (Stay): The Bushmills Inn (Stay): Bishop's Gate Hotel, Derry (Stay):
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