Private Tour of Giant’s Causeway

Key Points

• Private group tour lasting approximately 7 hours from Belfast.
• Includes access to Giants Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Stops at Carrickfergus Castle, Larrybane Quarry, and Dark Hedges.
• Optional Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge crossing for an additional fee.
• Travel along the beautiful Antrim coast, with stunning views of the Irish Sea and Glens of Antrim.
• Guided by an English-speaking live guide with storytelling on folklore and history.

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Exciting Highlights of the Private Tour

This 7-hour private tour from Belfast offers a comprehensive experience of some of Ireland’s most iconic sights. The journey begins with a pickup at Donegall Square North, making it easy to start your day without hassle. The tour includes exclusive access to the Giants Causeway, allowing visitors to walk among the fascinating rock formations that have earned their UNESCO World Heritage status.

What sets this tour apart is the combination of scenic drives, cultural stops, and legendary storytelling. During the day, you’ll pass HBO’s Game of Thrones filming locations like Magheramorne Quarry, adding a touch of pop culture history to your trip. The private group setting ensures a personalized experience, tailored to your pace and interests.

Scenic Drive Along the Antrim Coast with Spectacular Views

The tour’s journey takes you along the breathtaking Antrim coast road, which features dramatic views of the Irish Sea on your right and the Glens of Antrim on your left. You’ll cross the Glen Dun Bridge and climb into the Glen Dun area, providing sweeping views of the landscape before descending into Ballycastle.

This scenic route is a highlight for many visitors, offering picture-perfect scenery at every turn. The coach ride allows you to relax and enjoy the vistas while the guide shares stories about the area’s natural beauty and local legends. The drive’s pacing is designed to balance sightseeing with comfortable travel, making it ideal for those who appreciate a leisurely exploration.

Visiting Carrickfergus: A 12th-Century Castle and Historic Harbor

The first stop of the day is the charming town of Carrickfergus, home to a medieval castle dating back to the 12th century. Visitors have time to stroll around the stone walls and the historic harbor, gaining a sense of Ireland’s maritime past.

This stop provides a quiet, atmospheric introduction to the day’s adventures. The well-preserved castle is a visual highlight, offering insights into medieval architecture. The proximity of the town to Belfast makes it an accessible and worthwhile early stop before heading further into the countryside.

The Thrill of Crossing the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

One of the most famous stops is the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, which spans between cliffs over the Irish Sea. Crossing the GBP 6 fee is not compulsory, giving flexibility to those who prefer to admire the view from below rather than walk over the bridge.

The bridge offers a thrilling experience for brave visitors, with stunning vistas of the coast below. The walk to the bridge is manageable with walking shoes, and the guide provides safety tips and historical context. The stop is brief but memorable, perfect for adding some adventure to your day.

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Exploring Larrybane Quarry and Its Connection to Game of Thrones

Next, the tour visits the Larrybane Quarry, a historic site that has been used as a filming location for HBO’s Game of Thrones series. Known for its dramatic limestone formations, the quarry offers a rugged landscape and excellent photo opportunities.

This stop is ideal for fans of the series or those interested in Ireland’s industrial past. The guide shares stories about the quarry’s history and its role in the TV series, enriching the visit with local lore and behind-the-scenes details.

The Main Attraction: Walking Among the Giants at the Causeway

The highlight of the tour is the Giants Causeway, where visitors are free to walk among the unique basalt columns and marvel at their natural, artistic formations. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Causeway’s striking geological features are a must-see.

The site offers ample time for exploration, and the guide provides insights into the legends and scientific explanations behind the formations. The walk involves some uneven terrain, so comfortable walking shoes are advised. This stop is the perfect culmination of the scenic and cultural journey.

Dark Hedges: A Mystical Forest Stop on the Return

Before heading back to Belfast, the tour makes a final stop at the Dark Hedges, a famous avenue of intertwined beech trees that creates a surreal, tunnel-like effect. Known for their popularity on social media and in film, the Dark Hedges are a visual treat.

This stop is brief but impactful, offering a chance for photos in a woodland setting that feels almost enchanted. It’s an atmospheric ending to a day filled with natural beauty, history, and storytelling.

Practical Details and Considerations

This tour includes pickup services from Belfast city center hotels, simplifying the logistics for visitors. The 7-hour itinerary is paced to balance sightseeing with travel time, making it suitable for travelers who prefer a full but manageable day.

The price includes access to the Giants Causeway and a guided experience in English. The Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge crossing is an optional activity with an additional cost of GBP 6; crossing is not required to enjoy the stop. Lunch and other food purchases are not included, but there are multiple opportunities to buy food at various stops.

For comfort and safety, it’s recommended to wear walking shoes, especially when exploring the Causeway and Larrybane Quarry. The tour is private, providing an intimate setting for a personalized experience, whether traveling with family, friends, or a small group.

The Sum Up: An Engaging Full-Day Adventure with Personal Touches

This Private Tour of Giants Causeway offers a well-rounded experience of Ireland’s scenic coast, legendary sites, and cultural stories. The private group format ensures a flexible, personalized approach, ideal for those seeking a relaxed yet engaging day.

The combination of stunning scenery, historical stops, and the thrill of the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge makes this tour particularly appealing. While the GBP 6 crossing fee is optional, the overall value lies in the expert guidance and the chance to walk among the remarkable basalt formations.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate comfort, flexibility, and storytelling in their sightseeing. It’s perfect for visitors looking to explore the Antrim Coast at a comfortable pace, with opportunities to learn about Irish folklore, history, and natural wonders.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
Access to the Giants Causeway and a guided experience in English are included. Pickup from Belfast city center hotels is available upon request.

Is the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge crossing mandatory?
No, crossing the GBP 6 rope bridge is optional; visitors can enjoy the stop from the viewing points without crossing.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, with a carefully paced schedule that includes multiple stops.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are meals included?
No, lunch and other food purchases are not included, but there are opportunities to buy food at various stops during the day.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
While most stops are manageable with walking shoes, the uneven terrain at the Causeway and Larrybane Quarry may require some physical effort; children and those with mobility issues should consider this.

Is pickup service available?
Yes, pickup is included at Belfast hotels, making the start of the tour convenient.

What languages are offered?
The tour is conducted in English with a live guide providing storytelling and information throughout the day.

How many people are in the group?
The experience is a private group, ensuring a customized and intimate atmosphere.

Where does the tour end?
The tour concludes back at Donegall Square North in Belfast.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby