Giant Causeway Ireland Map: Your Ultimate Travel Guide
If you’re planning to visit Ireland, the Giant Causeway is a must-see destination. Located on the north coast of the country, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its unique geological formations and stunning natural beauty. But there’s much more to the area than just the Causeway itself. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take you through all the top attractions, hidden gems, and must-see experiences in and around the Giant Causeway.
Top Attractions
The Giant Causeway is undoubtedly the main draw for visitors to this area, and it’s well worth spending some time exploring this unique natural wonder. The hexagonal basalt columns are a sight to behold, and you can spend hours wandering around the site and marvelling at the beauty of the landscape.
But there are also plenty of other top attractions in the area. Dunluce Castle is a must-visit, perched on a cliff overlooking the sea. The Old Bushmills Distillery is another popular spot, where you can learn about the history and production of Irish whiskey, and of course sample some of the local tipples.
Hidden Gems
If you’re looking for something a little off the beaten track, there are plenty of hidden gems to discover in the Giant Causeway area. The Mussenden Temple is one such spot – a stunning circular building perched on a cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a popular spot for weddings and events, but it’s also open to the public for tours.
The Dark Hedges is another hidden gem – a tree-lined avenue that’s become famous thanks to its appearance in Game of Thrones. It’s a picturesque spot for a stroll or a photoshoot, and it’s free to visit.
Food Scene
The food scene in the Giant Causeway area is a mix of traditional Irish fare and modern international cuisine. Harry’s Shack is a popular spot for seafood lovers, while The Bushmills Inn offers a more upscale dining experience.
For a taste of local produce, head to the Causeway Coast Farmers Market, where you can browse stalls selling everything from artisan cheese to homemade chutneys.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Visiting the Giant Causeway can be expensive, especially if you’re travelling with a family. But there are ways to save money without missing out on the best experiences. One tip is to book your tickets for the Causeway online in advance – this can save you up to 25% compared to buying on the day.
You can also save money by staying in self-catering accommodation and cooking your own meals, or by taking advantage of free activities such as hiking or visiting the many beaches in the area.
Outdoor Adventures
The Giant Causeway area is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. There are plenty of hiking trails to explore, from the cliff-top walks at Dunluce Castle to the more challenging hikes in the nearby Glens of Antrim.
Water sports are also popular in the area, with surfing, kayaking and paddleboarding all available. And for a truly unique experience, you can take a guided tour of the Causeway on horseback.
Historical Landmarks
The Giant Causeway area is steeped in history, and there are plenty of historical landmarks to explore. As well as Dunluce Castle, there’s also the ruins of the 13th-century Kinbane Castle and the clifftop ruins of Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge.
The Bushmills Distillery is also a historic landmark in its own right, dating back to 1608.
Family-Friendly Activities
If you’re travelling with kids, there are plenty of family-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained. The Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre has interactive exhibits and a children’s audio guide, while the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge is a thrilling experience for all ages.
The beaches in the area are also great for families, with miles of sandy shores to explore. And for a truly unique experience, you can take a boat tour to see the resident seals and dolphins.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little different, there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to discover in the Giant Causeway area. The Gobbins Cliff Path is one such experience – a guided tour along a narrow path that hugs the cliff face, with stunning views of the sea below.
Another unique experience is the Game of Thrones tour, which takes you to some of the filming locations for the hit TV show. And for something truly special, you can take a helicopter tour over the Causeway and the surrounding coastline.
Natural Wonders
The Giant Causeway is just one of many natural wonders in the area. The Glens of Antrim are a series of nine deep valleys that are home to waterfalls, forests and stunning vistas.
The Causeway Coast Way is another natural wonder – a 33-mile hiking trail that takes you along the coast, through forests and over hills. And for a truly unique experience, you can visit the Gortmore Viewing Point, where you can see the Scottish Isles on a clear day.
Vibrant Nightlife
While the Giant Causeway area is more known for its natural beauty than its nightlife, there are still plenty of options for those looking to let their hair down. The Harbour Bar in Portrush is a popular spot for live music, while The Nook in Bushmills is a cosy pub with a great atmosphere.
For something a little more upscale, head to the Bushmills Inn, which has a cocktail bar and a whiskey tasting room.
Local Markets
If you want to get a taste of local life, the Causeway Coast Farmers Market is a must-visit. Held on the second Saturday of every month in Coleraine, the market is a showcase of the best local produce, from freshly baked bread to artisan cheese.
There are also plenty of craft markets in the area, where you can pick up handmade souvenirs and gifts.
Beaches and Mountains
As well as the Giant Causeway itself, there are plenty of other beaches and mountains to explore in the area. Portstewart Strand is a long stretch of sandy beach that’s popular for swimming and surfing, while Benone Strand is a great spot for a family picnic.
Inland, the Sperrin Mountains are a stunning landscape of hills, forests and lakes. There are plenty of hiking trails to explore, as well as opportunities for mountain biking and horse riding.
Cultural Immersion
If you want to get a deeper understanding of Irish culture, there are plenty of opportunities in the Giant Causeway area. The Causeway Coast Cultural Centre in Coleraine has exhibits on the history and culture of the area, while the Ballycastle Museum has artefacts from the Bronze Age to the present day.
You can also take a traditional music tour, where you’ll learn about the history of Irish music and see live performances in local pubs.
Art and Music Scene
The Giant Causeway area has a thriving arts and music scene. The Flowerfield Arts Centre in Portstewart has exhibitions and workshops throughout the year, while the Roe Valley Arts and Cultural Centre in Limavady has a cinema and theatre.
For live music, head to The Atlantic Bar in Portrush or The Blackbird in Ballycotton, where you’ll find local musicians playing traditional Irish music and modern hits.
Walking Tours
Walking tours are a great way to explore the Giant Causeway area, whether you’re interested in history, nature or culture. The Giant’s Causeway Cliff Top Experience is a guided tour that takes you along the cliff tops, with stunning views of the sea and the Causeway itself.
The Portrush Heritage Trail is another popular walking tour, where you’ll learn about the history and architecture of this charming seaside town.
Architectural Marvels
The Giant Causeway area is home to some stunning architectural marvels. The Mussenden Temple is one such example, a circular building perched on a cliff overlooking the sea.
The Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge is another architectural marvel, a narrow bridge that spans a 30-metre chasm between the mainland and a small island.
Historical Sites
The Giant Causeway area is rich in history, with plenty of historical sites to explore. Dunluce Castle is a must-visit, a ruined castle perched on a cliff overlooking the sea.
The nearby Kinbane Castle is another popular spot, a 13th-century fortification that’s now in ruins. And for something a little different, visit the Bonamargy Friary, a medieval monastic site with a fascinating history.
Biking Routes
Biking is a great way to explore the Giant Causeway area, with plenty of scenic routes to choose from. The Causeway Coast Way is a popular option for mountain bikers, with challenging trails and stunning views of the sea.
The Roe Valley Country Park is another great spot for biking, with