From Belfast: Giants Causeway Day Trip

Experience the Best of the Causeway Coast in a Small-Group Tour

This 7-hour day trip from Belfast offers an immersive visit to Ireland’s only UNESCO World Heritage site, the Giants Causeway. Operated by Odyssey Coach Tours, this tour stands out with its smaller luxury buses that provide additional legroom and a more relaxed pace, avoiding the crowds of larger coach tours. The tour costs a set price and includes visits to iconic sites like Dunluce Castle, Bushmills Whiskey Distillery, and the famous Dark Hedges.

The tour is particularly praised for its knowledgeable guides, who share stories and legends that bring each stop to life. With up to 28 guests on a comfortable, air-conditioned bus, the experience is both intimate and engaging. Travelers who prefer a more unrushed pace and extra time at key sights will find this tour especially appealing, though it’s best suited for those comfortable with walking and no wheelchair users.

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Key Points

• Small-group experience with up to 28 guests for a more personal touch
• 7-hour tour exploring the Causeway Coast, Giants Causeway, Dunluce Castle, Bushmills Distillery, and Dark Hedges
• Luxury buses with extra legroom and modern amenities
• Flexible timing with longer stays at the giants and no rushed sightseeing
• Expert guides who provide interesting stories, legends, and practical tips
• Includes whiskey tasting at Bushmills, the oldest licensed distillery in the world

Departing from Belfast for a Scenic Coastal Drive

The tour begins outside Leonardo Hotel Belfast on Great Victoria Street, marked clearly as Odyssey Tours. From there, travelers board a luxury coach for what many describe as one of the most scenic drives in Europe. The route takes you along the rugged coast road, passing through the Glens of Antrim, famous for their charming villages and lush landscapes.

Traveling along the coast, the vehicle offers fantastic views of the Irish countryside. The drive highlights Ireland’s natural beauty and sets the tone for a day filled with memorable scenery. The relaxed pace of the tour allows plenty of time to appreciate the landscape and take photos, making it a comfortable way to see the sights without feeling hurried.

Charming Stop in Carnlough Village and Scenic Glens of Antrim

The first scheduled stop is in Carnlough, a quaint village known for its snug, compact harbor. Here, visitors have 30 minutes to explore, enjoy a coffee, or buy food from local shops. The harbor’s cozy atmosphere makes it a perfect starting point to experience Ireland’s small-town charm.

After leaving Carnlough, the route continues through the Glens of Antrim, a series of lush, green valleys renowned for their striking natural views. The scenic drive through these glens lasts about 50 minutes, offering numerous opportunities to learn about local legends and history from the guide. The stops along the way are timed to maximize sightseeing and photo opportunities without feeling rushed.

Portaneevy Viewpoint and Spectacular Coastal Vistas

The Portaneevy viewpoint provides a 15-minute stop for sweeping views of the coastline. From this vantage point, visitors can see Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, built by fishermen to access islands for salmon fishing, as well as distant Scottish islands like the Isle of Isla and the Mull of Kintrye.

This stop offers a perfect chance to take photos of the dramatic scenery, with cliffs, sea stacks, and rolling waves. The guide shares stories related to the landscape and local history, enriching the experience of being in such a spectacular location.

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The Giants Causeway: Awe-Inspiring Basalt Columns

The centerpiece of the tour is The Giants Causeway, where 1 hour and 45 minutes are allocated for exploration. The site features approximately 40,000 interlocking basalt columns formed by volcanic activity over 60 million years ago. This UNESCO World Heritage site draws visitors for its unique geological formations and mythic stories about giants.

Visitors walk along well-maintained paths, marveling at the natural architecture, and get detailed explanations about its formation and legends surrounding the giants. Many find the site to be breathtaking, with views that make a lasting impression. The time spent here allows for both sightseeing and relaxation, avoiding the crush typical of larger tours.

Dunluce Castle: Medieval Ruins with Stunning Views

Just a 10-minute drive from the Giants Causeway, Dunluce Castle offers a short stop to admire its impressive ruins built in the 14th century. Perched on a large basalt rock, the castle is connected to the mainland via a small bridge, emphasizing its strategic position. Many describe Dunluce as the most romantic medieval castle in Ireland.

Visitors can take photos of the castle’s dramatic setting against the Atlantic Ocean and imagine life in its ancient halls. The guide shares the history and legends of Dunluce, adding a storytelling element to the visit. Despite the brief stop, the scenery and historical intrigue make it a memorable highlight.

Whiskey Tasting at Bushmills Distillery

The trip then moves inland to Bushmills Whiskey Distillery, the oldest licensed distillery in the world, established in 1608. The visit lasts 35 minutes, giving travelers the chance to explore the historic site, browse the gift shop, and try a selection of whiskeys at the distillery bar.

Many praise the tasting experience, noting that Bushmills offers a delicious range of whiskeys, perfect for enthusiasts and novices alike. The visit also provides insight into Ireland’s whiskey-making tradition, making it a popular addition to the tour.

The Dark Hedges: Iconic Tree Tunnel from Game of Thrones

Next, the Dark Hedges feature a 30-minute visit. This enchanting avenue of beech trees gained fame as a filming location for Game of Thrones, where it served as the Kingsroad. Visitors can walk along the scenic path, capturing photos of the twisting, arching branches.

The guide highlights the filming history and local folklore associated with the site. Its striking appearance, especially with good weather, makes this stop one of the most photogenic parts of the day. The timing of this visit often means avoiding larger crowds seen on busier days.

Return Journey and Final Tips

The tour concludes by returning to Leonardo Hotel Belfast around 4:30 p.m., giving travelers ample time to relax after a full day of sightseeing. The journey back is comfortable, with guides providing a recap of the day’s highlights. Reviewers often mention the friendly, humorous guides who enhance the experience without overloading guests with information.

This tour emphasizes timing efficiency and personalized attention thanks to the smaller bus size, making it a preferred choice for those who want a more intimate and flexible exploration of Northern Ireland’s coast.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour the Most?

This small-group tour suits travelers wanting more time at each site, especially the Giants Causeway, Dunluce Castle, and Bushmills. It’s ideal for those who value comfort, detailed storytelling, and avoiding large crowds. Since no lunch stop is included, guests should plan for snacks or meals beforehand.

The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, given the short stops and walking involved. However, the comfortable buses and thoughtful itinerary make it an excellent option for most active visitors seeking a relaxed yet comprehensive day trip from Belfast.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours from departure to return, with most of the time spent at key sights like the Giants Causeway and Bushmills.

Where does the tour start?
It departs from outside Leonardo Hotel Belfast on Great Victoria Street, marked as Odyssey Tours.

Are meals included?
No, the tour does not include lunch, but there is time for sightseeing and whiskey tasting. Visitors can bring snacks or plan to eat at the Causeway Hotel after the trip.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour works well for those comfortable with walking and longer periods of sightseeing but is not recommended for wheelchair users.

What makes this tour different from larger bus options?
The smaller luxury buses and longer stops provide a more relaxed experience, with fewer guests, shorter wait times, and the chance to beat the crowds at popular sites.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour date, offering flexibility for your travel arrangements.

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