Driving can often feel mundane, with long stretches of road and traffic jams being the norm. However, every so often, a drive can turn into a delightful journey when the traffic clears, the sun shines, and beautiful scenery unfolds before you.
During a recent trip in March, I rented a car in Belfast and inquired about the best route to Derry. I was given the option of taking the quicker motorway route, which would take just over an hour, or the longer scenic route. Opting for the scenic path after a brief encounter with the dreary M2, I embarked on a delightful drive.
The Causeway Coastal Route spans 120 miles, starting from Belfast and meandering through Newtonabbey, Larne, and onward to Ballycastle, a charming seaside village. Along this route, you’ll encounter various picturesque spots, including the iconic Giant’s Causeway, Cranny Falls waterfall, and settings featured in the popular series Game of Thrones.
For those seeking a less crowded destination than the Causeway, Whitepark Bay offers a serene beach experience. Notable stops along the way include Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Fanad Lighthouse, and Malin Head, the northernmost point of Ireland.
The true beauty of this journey lies in the leisurely exploration of a road constructed in the 1800s by William Bald. Each hill and bend in the road holds the promise of discovering historic landmarks, lush green landscapes, twisted trees, or breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.
This scenic coastal drive along the Antrim coastline has garnered global recognition, being ranked among CNN’s 16 best coastlines worldwide in 2019, alongside iconic locations like Big Sur in California and the Garden Route in South Africa. Additionally, CNTraveller named the county as one of the top destinations to visit in 2026.
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