Full-Day Private Tour of Giants Causeway with Pick Up

Discover the Full-Day Private Tour of Giants Causeway with Pickup in Belfast

This private tour offers an engaging way to explore Northern Ireland’s most iconic sites at your own pace, with a cost of $548.63 per group for up to four people. With an estimated duration of 6 to 8 hours, the tour provides relaxed timings at each stop, avoiding the crowds and rushing typical of larger group excursions. The tour includes pickup service, ensuring convenience from your Belfast accommodation or designated meeting point, and features private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle led by an experienced driver and guide.

Designed for travelers seeking a personalized experience, this tour emphasizes flexibility and comfort. While the itinerary covers all the major highlights, such as the Giant’s Causeway and Dark Hedges, the admission fees for some sites like Carrick A Rede Rope Bridge and Dunluce Castle are not included in the price, so budget accordingly. This tour suits those who enjoy independent pacing, want to avoid waiting for others, and appreciate expert guidance throughout their day exploring Northern Ireland’s scenic and cinematic landmarks.

Key Points

• Private, customizable tour with no sharing with other groups
• Six to eight hours of sightseeing around Belfast and Northern Ireland’s coast
• Multiple stops, including Dark Hedges, Carrick A Rede Rope Bridge, Giant’s Causeway, and Dunluce Castle
• Admission fees are not included for some sites, with prices like £13.50 for Carrick A Rede Rope Bridge and £6 for Dunluce Castle
• Experienced driver and guide lead the tour, offering insights and local knowledge
• Flexible pacing ensures you don’t feel rushed and can explore each location comfortably

Starting from Belfast with a Tailored Experience

The tour begins in Belfast, where pickup is included, and ends back at the same meeting point. This full-day private experience is ideal for families or small groups of friends who want an intimate, hassle-free exploration of Northern Ireland’s legendary sights. The private vehicle provides a comfortable environment, and the guided commentary enriches your understanding of each stop.

Travelers can expect to avoid the crowds typical of larger coach tours, thanks to the relaxed schedule and exclusive nature of the experience. The flexibility also allows you to spend more time at sites like the Giant’s Causeway, where over 50,000 basalt columns form the famous stepping stones created by a volcanic eruption.

The Dark Hedges: A Cinematic Forest Scene

The tour features a 30-minute stop at The Dark Hedges, renowned as the Game of Thrones filming location for King’s Road. Fans will recognize this winding avenue of ancient beech trees, famously used as Arya Stark’s escape route from King’s Landing. The admission here is free, making it a popular and atmospheric photo stop.

This site offers an authentic glimpse into the landscape that doubled as a key scene in the series, and the short visit allows time to appreciate its twisted branches and natural beauty without feeling rushed.

Crossing the Carrick A Rede Rope Bridge

One of the most exhilarating stops, the Carrick A Rede Rope Bridge offers a height of 30 meters and spans 20 meters across the Atlantic Ocean. Travelers have the opportunity to experience the thrill of crossing this historic rope bridge, suspended between cliffs with stunning sea views.

While the admission fee of £13.50 per person is not included in the tour price, the two-hour stop provides ample time to cross, take photos, and soak in the dramatic coastal scenery. Remember, you’ll need to cross back over the bridge after your visit, so moderate comfort with heights is advisable.

Exploring Ballintoy Harbour and Its Thrones Connections

A 30-minute stop at Ballintoy Harbour highlights its role in Game of Thrones as well, notably where Theon Greyjoy is baptized and his ship admired. Visitors also see where Yara Greyjoy makes her appearances, and where Euron is declared King of the Iron Islands.

This picturesque harbor, with its rugged coastline and fishing village charm, makes for excellent photos. The free admission means no additional cost, and the limited time allows for a quick exploration of this iconic location.

The Magnificent Giants Causeway: Nature’s Basalt Masterpiece

The Giant’s Causeway stands out as the tour’s most famous stop. Visitors spend around 2 hours exploring over 50,000 basalt columns that form the legendary stepping stones. These formations result from a volcanic eruption, creating one of the most striking natural sites in Northern Ireland.

The tour provides plenty of time to walk along the causeway, take photographs, and learn about the geology behind the formations. While the admission fee isn’t included, the experience of standing among these massive, symmetrical stones remains memorable and worth the slightly extra expense.

Dunluce Castle: Medieval Ruins with Thrones Ties

A 30-minute visit to Dunluce Castle reveals the dramatic ruins perched on a cliff overlooking the sea. Known for its role as The House of Greyjoy in Game of Thrones, this castle has a long history and striking scenery.

The site was also featured in a 2003 film called The Medallion, adding to its cinematic appeal. The admission fee of £6 is not included, but the castle’s evocative setting and its connection to the Iron Islands make it a worthwhile stop for fans and history enthusiasts alike.

Navigating County Antrim and the Coastal Route

The tour includes about 1 hour of driving through County Antrim, covering scenic coastal landscapes on the way to and from the Giants Causeway. This journey offers a chance to appreciate Northern Ireland’s lush countryside and rugged shoreline, with commentary from your guide about local history and geography.

This travel time ensures a comfortable pace, avoiding overly rushed visits while allowing travelers to relax and enjoy the scenery en route to key stops.

Logistics: Private Transport and Flexibility

The entire experience takes place in an air-conditioned vehicle, exclusively for your group. The private transportation allows you to set your own pace and spend as much or as little time at each site as you prefer. Since it’s a private tour, no other groups join, providing a more personalized and flexible schedule.

The pickup and drop-off are arranged in Belfast, making the start and end points convenient. The most travelers can participate, and the tour is suitable for those who prefer independent pacing and expert guidance.

Considerations and Additional Costs

While the tour covers the main sights, some sites like Carrick A Rede Rope Bridge and Dunluce Castle require additional admission fees—£13.50 and £6 respectively—paid directly at each location. The tour price does not include lunch, so travelers should plan to bring their own or purchase food during the day.

The tour is designed for most travelers, with good weather recommended for outdoor stops. Service animals are permitted, adding convenience for visitors with pets.

Final Thoughts on the Private Giants Causeway Tour

This full-day private tour offers a relaxed, flexible way to see Northern Ireland’s top attractions, guided by knowledgeable drivers who enrich your visit with insights. The customizable pacing and exclusive vehicle make it ideal for those who dislike crowded groups or rushing through sights.

While some site admissions are extra, the overall experience emphasizes comfort, flexibility, and personalized attention. Perfect for families or small groups who want to explore the scenic and cinematic highlights of the coast at their own pace, this tour provides a memorable way to experience one of Ireland’s most celebrated landscapes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Yes, the private nature and flexible timing make it accessible for most ages, but consider the physical demands of walking at certain stops like the Giant’s Causeway.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, guests are responsible for their own lunch, which allows flexibility in meal choices and timings.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, you can discuss your preferences with the guide, but the main stops are fixed in the standard itinerary.

What are the main costs not included in the tour price?
Admission fees for Carrick A Rede Rope Bridge and Dunluce Castle are £13.50 and £6 per person, respectively.

How long is the drive between sites?
Travel through County Antrim takes about 1 hour, allowing a comfortable pace between stops.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and any personal items needed for outdoor exploration.

Is this tour available year-round?
Yes, but weather conditions can impact outdoor sites, so check local forecasts.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted on this tour.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, this tour is booked 131 days in advance, so early reservation is recommended for availability.