Walking along the Causeway Coast and Antrim Glens
Walking along the Causeway Coast and Antrim Glens
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This route immerses you in the northeast coast of Northern Ireland, where Atlantic landscapes, ancient geology, and local culture connect naturally. Along the way, you'll discover unique environments, impressive natural formations, and coastal villages steeped in history that invite you to walk at your own pace.
- Walk along coastal paths between basalt cliffs, golden beaches, and wooded valleys offering spectacular views of the sea and the nine glens of Antrim.
- Reach charming coastal enclaves such as Ballintoy Harbor and Portstewart Strand, places known for their natural beauty and traditional atmosphere.
- Discover a wide variety of landscapes: from the fascinating Giant's Causeway, with its thousands of basalt columns, to the forests and waterfalls of the glens, not to mention a ferry trip to wild Rathlin Island.
- Enjoy local hospitality in small villages and traditional pubs, where you can savor regional cuisine or sample a dram of whiskey at the Bushmills distillery.
Gallery
Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrival in Portstewart
After arriving on the north coast of Northern Ireland, the journey continues to the lively coastal town of Portstewart, which is easily accessible from Belfast. Upon arrival at the airport, you will need to head to Belfast city center by taking the 300a bus line, and from there, you will need to take a train to Coleraine.
Finally, you will have a transfer included from Coleraine to your accommodation in Portstewart.
Once settled in Portstewart, you will have the rest of the day free to start exploring the area. Enjoy the promenade, visit the extensive Portstewart Strand, a golden beach almost three kilometers long located just a few minutes from the center, or take in the views of St. Hara's Castle.
To complete the experience, be sure to visit one of the local ice cream parlors and try the famous artisanal ice cream at Morelli's, a true institution in the area.
Finally, you will have a transfer included from Coleraine to your accommodation in Portstewart.
Once settled in Portstewart, you will have the rest of the day free to start exploring the area. Enjoy the promenade, visit the extensive Portstewart Strand, a golden beach almost three kilometers long located just a few minutes from the center, or take in the views of St. Hara's Castle.
To complete the experience, be sure to visit one of the local ice cream parlors and try the famous artisanal ice cream at Morelli's, a true institution in the area.
Overnight in Portstewart
Anchorage Inn
This accommodation offers comfortable and attractive rooms with television, private bathroom, and free Wi-Fi.
It also has a popular bar where you can relax at the end of the day.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 2 - Portstewart to Bushmills 11,8 miles | 19km
Today you will start in the vicinity of Portstewart, crossing the renowned golf course that characterizes this area. As you progress, the trail winds its way along the sea, offering sweeping views of the coastline until you reach the lively coastal town of Portrush, an ideal place to pause and enjoy a coffee before continuing.
The trail continues alongside one of the most iconic sites on the north coast, the impressive ruins of Dunluce Medieval Castle, perched on the cliffs. Built around 1500, this castle witnessed numerous battles and legends that are part of the region's turbulent history.
From here, the route takes you to Portballintrae, a picturesque coastal village surrounded by traditional white houses and basalt cliffs. After this visit, the tour ends in Bushmills, a village closely linked to the tradition of Irish whiskey. If you wish, you can visit its famous distillery, the oldest in Ireland, and taste its renowned whiskeys, known for their deep character, fruity notes, and triple distillation.
The trail continues alongside one of the most iconic sites on the north coast, the impressive ruins of Dunluce Medieval Castle, perched on the cliffs. Built around 1500, this castle witnessed numerous battles and legends that are part of the region's turbulent history.
From here, the route takes you to Portballintrae, a picturesque coastal village surrounded by traditional white houses and basalt cliffs. After this visit, the tour ends in Bushmills, a village closely linked to the tradition of Irish whiskey. If you wish, you can visit its famous distillery, the oldest in Ireland, and taste its renowned whiskeys, known for their deep character, fruity notes, and triple distillation.
Overnight in Bushmills
Portcaman House B&B
Surrounded by beautiful scenery and recently renovated, this accommodation offers spacious and comfortable rooms with private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 3 - Bushmills to Ballintoy via the Giant's Causeway 13,04 miles | 21km
Today begins with one of the most iconic places on the trip: the Giant's Causeway. This spectacular natural enclave, formed by some 40,000 basalt columns fitted together, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and dates back to intense volcanic activity almost 60 million years ago. A visit to the Visitor Center will allow you to learn about both its geological origin and the famous legend of the Irish giant Finn McCool.
The tour continues along the coast to the evocative ruins of Dunseverick Castle, a place steeped in history where St. Patrick's visit in the 5th century is documented. Further on, you will walk along the wide and wild White Park Bay, one of the most beautiful beaches in the area, before passing through the picturesque port of Ballintoy, virtually unchanged over time and known for being the filming location for Game of Thrones.
Finally, you will arrive at the village of Ballintoy, recognizable by its small white houses and peaceful atmosphere. With just 200 inhabitants, it has a lively pub where you can enjoy an excellent dinner made with local produce and put the perfect finishing touch to your day.
The tour continues along the coast to the evocative ruins of Dunseverick Castle, a place steeped in history where St. Patrick's visit in the 5th century is documented. Further on, you will walk along the wide and wild White Park Bay, one of the most beautiful beaches in the area, before passing through the picturesque port of Ballintoy, virtually unchanged over time and known for being the filming location for Game of Thrones.
Finally, you will arrive at the village of Ballintoy, recognizable by its small white houses and peaceful atmosphere. With just 200 inhabitants, it has a lively pub where you can enjoy an excellent dinner made with local produce and put the perfect finishing touch to your day.
Overnight in Ballintoy
The Fullerton Arms
This accommodation offers comfortable rooms with private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi.
It also has a bar and restaurant.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 4 - Explore the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge 6,9 miles | 11,2km
Today begins at one of the most iconic spots on the north coast: the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge. This narrow passage connects the small island of the same name to the mainland, suspended almost 30 meters above the sea. Built around 350 years ago by salmon fishermen, crossing it is an intense experience accompanied by spectacular views of the Atlantic.
After the visit, the tour continues to Ballycastle, a lively coastal town. You can walk there along the coast or, if you prefer, take a regular bus from the center of Ballintoy, which will take you comfortably to Ballycastle.
You can find more information about buses on the Translink website.
After the visit, the tour continues to Ballycastle, a lively coastal town. You can walk there along the coast or, if you prefer, take a regular bus from the center of Ballintoy, which will take you comfortably to Ballycastle.
You can find more information about buses on the Translink website.
Overnight in Ballycastle
Marine Hotel
The accommodation offers beautiful rooms with private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi.
You can also enjoy a local experience by sampling dishes made with typical local products.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 5 - Enjoy your day on Rathlin Island 5,7 miles | 9,2km
At the start of the route, you will need to take a ferry from Ballycastle to Rathlin Island, a unique enclave located off the coast. Upon arrival, you will discover an island steeped in history and character, linked to episodes such as Robert I Bruce's refuge in 1306 and famous for its rich wildlife. During the spring and summer months, Rathlin also becomes home to a large colony of puffins, one of its great natural attractions.
From Church Bay, where the ferry docks, you can take a circular route to Rue Point and the South Lighthouse. The route follows quiet country roads and dirt tracks, passing lakes and rugged landscapes.
If you prefer, you also have the option of renting a bicycle on the island to explore it at your own pace.
End the day by taking a ferry on your own from Rathlin Island to Ballycastle, where you will spend the night.
From Church Bay, where the ferry docks, you can take a circular route to Rue Point and the South Lighthouse. The route follows quiet country roads and dirt tracks, passing lakes and rugged landscapes.
If you prefer, you also have the option of renting a bicycle on the island to explore it at your own pace.
End the day by taking a ferry on your own from Rathlin Island to Ballycastle, where you will spend the night.
Overnight in Ballycastle
Marine Hotel
The accommodation offers beautiful rooms with private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi.
You can also enjoy a local experience by sampling dishes made with typical local products.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 6 - Ballycastle-Murlough Bay-Ballycastle 7 miles | 11,3km
The day begins with a transfer to Murlough Bay, a peaceful and picturesque enclave located between Torr Head and Fair Head. From here, you will begin a spectacular walk along the cliffs of Fair Head, formed by enormous basalt columns that reach up to 12 meters in diameter. The trail runs along the promontory overlooking the Sea of Moyle, offering sweeping views of Rathlin Island and the Causeway coast.
The route continues back inland, passing historic lakes and green farmland, before linking up with quiet country lanes that lead to the small village of Ballyvoy. From there, the path will take you to Ballycastle beach and its pleasant promenade.
Ballycastle offers a lively and welcoming atmosphere, with an excellent seaside café and a renowned fish and chips shop. In addition, in the center of the village you will find a good selection of cafés and restaurants, ideal for enjoying at the end of the day.
The route continues back inland, passing historic lakes and green farmland, before linking up with quiet country lanes that lead to the small village of Ballyvoy. From there, the path will take you to Ballycastle beach and its pleasant promenade.
Ballycastle offers a lively and welcoming atmosphere, with an excellent seaside café and a renowned fish and chips shop. In addition, in the center of the village you will find a good selection of cafés and restaurants, ideal for enjoying at the end of the day.
Overnight in Ballycastle
Marine Hotel
The accommodation offers beautiful rooms with private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi.
You can also enjoy a local experience by sampling dishes made with typical local products.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 7 - Ballycastle to Cushendall 9,5 miles | 15,4km
A transfer included in the price will take you to the spectacular Glenariff forest, the starting point for today's route. Along the way, as you enter and leave the woods, you will enjoy breathtaking views of the sea and this majestic green landscape, formed by valleys carved out by ancient glaciers.
Leaving the forest behind, the trail continues down the valley towards Cushendall, offering panoramic views of the vegetation-covered cliffs in all their glory. Once in the village, you can stroll along its small main street and head to the beach to enjoy the coastal surroundings. Cushendall has several local pubs and restaurants, the perfect place to celebrate your last night in this charming region of Northern Ireland.
Leaving the forest behind, the trail continues down the valley towards Cushendall, offering panoramic views of the vegetation-covered cliffs in all their glory. Once in the village, you can stroll along its small main street and head to the beach to enjoy the coastal surroundings. Cushendall has several local pubs and restaurants, the perfect place to celebrate your last night in this charming region of Northern Ireland.
Overnight in Cushendall
Glendale Guestrooms
Surrounded by a charming garden, the accommodation offers rooms with private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi.
In addition, a continental, American, or à la carte breakfast is served in the mornings.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 8 - Cushendall
After a delicious breakfast, it's time to say goodbye and return to your place of origin.
You will have a transfer included from Cushendall to Ballymena, where you can take the train to Belfast city center and, from there, take the bus to the airport.
End of our services.
You will have a transfer included from Cushendall to Ballymena, where you can take the train to Belfast city center and, from there, take the bus to the airport.
End of our services.
Itinerary Map
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Services
Included
- Accommodation in en suite rooms
- Daily Breakfasts
- Luggage transfers between accommodations
- Transfers as specified in the itinerary
- Information dossier with maps and routes
- 24-hour telephone support
- Sustainable travel, we compensate the CO2 emissions of your trip
- Taxes
Extras
- Travel insurance
- Cancellation insurance
- Additional nights
Accomodation
General information
The accommodations with which we collaborate have a private bathroom and all the necessary services to ensure the best comfort available.
Our team checks in situ the quality of all the accommodations offered, so that you have an unforgettable experience during your trip.
The accommodation that we will book for your trip will be selected taking into account our commitment to you: guaranteeing comfort, calm and enjoyment throughout your trip.
We work with quality hotels and country cottages with limited capacity, so we invite you to confirm your reservation as soon as possible.
The name of each accommodation will be provided to you a few weeks before your trip begins.
Room types
It is possible to book this journey in single, double or triple rooms.
All rooms have private bathrooms.
Travel & Transfers
To reach the starting point of this hiking trail, the best option is to fly to Belfast Airport. From the airport, take bus line 300a to Belfast city center. From there, take the train to Coleraine. You can find more information about buses on the Translink website.
From Coleraine, you will have a transfer included to your accommodation in Portstewart.
To return to your city of origin from Cushendall, you can fly from Belfast Airport. To get to the airport, you will first have a transfer included from Cushendall to Ballymena train station.
From Ballymena train station, you will need to take a train to Belfast city center. Finally, you will need to take the 300 bus to the airport. You can find more information about buses on the Translink website.
From Coleraine, you will have a transfer included to your accommodation in Portstewart.
To return to your city of origin from Cushendall, you can fly from Belfast Airport. To get to the airport, you will first have a transfer included from Cushendall to Ballymena train station.
From Ballymena train station, you will need to take a train to Belfast city center. Finally, you will need to take the 300 bus to the airport. You can find more information about buses on the Translink website.
FAQs
Is luggage transfer included? What are the luggage requirements?
Absolutely! Each traveller has included 1 piece of luggage that we will transfer between your accommodations. It's important that this piece of luggage meets the following criterias:
- Maximum weight of 45 lbs (20 kg).
- Must be only 1 piece of luggage without any attachments or accessories.
- Should not contain valuables, fragile items, food or medications.
- Must be correctly identified (booking reference of your trip and the full name of the trip holder).
What is the best time of year to do this trip?
This trip is available between April and October. Spring is undoubtedly one of the most recommended times to visit, as wildflowers cover the trails and the Beara Peninsula shows off its most vibrant colours.
If you plan to travel between June and August, keep in mind that these are the busiest months and accommodation tends to fill up quickly. Even so, summer offers the advantage of long hours of daylight, allowing you to make the most of each day.
For those seeking a quieter atmosphere, September is an ideal option, as the flow of visitors decreases and the landscape still maintains a pleasant climate, creating the perfect balance to enjoy the route at a leisurely pace.
What should my physical preparation be?
This route is of medium difficulty, making it ideal for people looking for 5 to 7 hours of walking per day with climbs that can be steeper and longer. It is recommended that you are in good physical condition and in good health. Some sections of the walk have uneven terrain, including rocky areas.
How far in advance should I book my trip?
We recommend that you book as soon as you are sure about your dates, as accommodation can fill up very quickly in this area.
What equipment do I need to bring?
Since the walks will be along rocky coastal trails, with ascents and descents, walking boots are essential. However, our information pack provides detailed advice and a list of items you should bring, including waterproof clothing, a hat, sunscreen, and other useful items.
What if I'm not able to finish one of the stages?
You can call us to arrange a private transfer for you.
If you prefer, you can also use public transport or local taxis to get to your next accommodation.
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