Giants Causeway & Antrim Coast Private Tour

Explore Northern Ireland’s Iconic Sites with a Private Guide

This Giants Causeway & Antrim Coast Private Tour offers an intimate way to see some of Northern Ireland’s most famous attractions. For $964.79 per group, up to 7 guests can enjoy a 7.5-hour journey starting from Belfast. The tour features hotel pickup, private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle with Wi-Fi, and the flexibility to shape the itinerary to suit your interests.

While tickets for the Giants Causeway are not included, the tour encompasses a variety of captivating stops along the North Antrim Coast, including the Dark Hedges, Carrick A Rede Rope Bridge viewing point, Ballintoy Harbour, and Dunluce Castle. This trip suits travelers who value personalized experiences, local insights, and a leisurely pace. A key consideration is that the Giants Causeway ticket must be purchased separately.

Key Points

• Private, customizable tour departing from Belfast for up to 7 guests
• Duration of approximately 7.5 hours with flexible stops and timings
• Tour highlights include the Dark Hedges, Carrick A Rede Rope Bridge viewing, Ballintoy Harbour, Dunseverick Castle, and Dunluce Castle
• Transportation in a private, air-conditioned vehicle with Wi-Fi and bottled water included
• Tickets for Giants Causeway are not included, but the stop is a major highlight
• Optional add-ons include crossing the Rope Bridge and distillery or castle tours

Starting Point and Transportation Details

This private tour departs from Donegall Square North in Belfast, with a pickup included in a luxury vehicle. The private transportation ensures a comfortable, relaxed experience, with Wi-Fi on board to share photos or stay connected. The group size is limited to 7 people, making for a personalized and flexible day.

The itinerary begins with a visit to the Dark Hedges, a stunning tree tunnel famous for its appearance in Game of Thrones as the Kings Road. The 30-minute stop allows ample time for photos and soaking in the atmospheric scenery.

Discover the Dark Hedges: An Enchanting Tree Tunnel

The Dark Hedges is a highlight of this tour, with 300-year-old beech trees arching overhead to create an iconic nature sculpture. The free admission makes it an accessible and photo-worthy start to the day. Travelers are encouraged to look out the windows throughout the journey for scenic views and rural landscapes.

This stop is perfect for those who enjoy dramatic natural scenery and TV history. The 30-minute duration is enough to appreciate the atmosphere without feeling rushed, leaving time for other stops along the coast.

View the Carrick A Rede Rope Bridge from a Distance

Next, the tour reaches the Carrick A Rede Rope Bridge viewing point. You are able to admire the bridge from afar, which offers stunning cliffside views of the Atlantic. Although not crossing the bridge is included, travelers can opt to add crossing as an extra for an additional fee.

This 20-minute stop provides a chance to take in the spectacular coastline and photo opportunities. The admission is free, but the experience’s value hinges on whether visitors choose to pay extra for the crossing.

Explore the Picturesque Ballintoy Harbour

The journey continues to Ballintoy Harbour, a quaint fishing port recognized for its rugged beauty and TV fame as the Iron Islands in Game of Thrones. The 20-minute stop allows for stunning views of the sea and rock formations.

This site suits those who appreciate coastal scenery and historic fishing villages. The free admission makes it an accessible spot for photography and a quiet moment by the water.

Step Back in Time at Dunseverick Castle

The itinerary includes a quick visit to Dunseverick, one of Ireland’s oldest castle ruins dating back to 500 BC. The 5-minute stop offers a brief glimpse into Ireland’s historic past, with free admission.

While quick, this stop provides a picture-perfect view of the castle ruins perched above the coastline, ideal for history buffs or those seeking a photo opp.

The Main Attraction: Giant’s Causeway

The Giant’s Causeway is the main highlight of the tour, and the number-one tourist attraction in Northern Ireland. The UNESCO World Heritage Site features thousands of interlocking basalt columns formed by ancient volcanic activity.

The tour allocates 2 hours here, giving ample time to walk along the cliffside paths, explore the unique formations, and enjoy the scenic vistas. Visitors should note that admission tickets are not included; they can be purchased on-site or in advance, and the experience of seeing this natural wonder is not to be missed.

Visit the Historic Bushmills Distillery

Next, the Bushmills Distillery provides a 15-minute stop to view the world’s oldest licensed distillery, established in 1608. The stop includes time to browse the shop and appreciate the craftsmanship behind Irish whiskey.

For those interested, a distillery tour can be added for an extra cost, allowing an inside look at the whiskey-making process. The stop is short but provides a taste of Irish tradition and craftsmanship.

Discover Dunluce Castle on the Clifftop

The tour concludes with a 10-minute visit to Dunluce Castle, an impressive ruin perched dramatically on a cliff edge. This photo-worthy site offers spectacular views and a sense of Ireland’s medieval history.

While quick, the stop provides a dramatic visual and an opportunity for photos. Additional time or a guided tour can be added as an extra if desired.

Flexible Stops and Optional Extras

This private tour offers the chance to customize stops, including the option to pay extra for crossing the Carrick A Rede Rope Bridge, visiting additional castles, or touring the distillery more thoroughly. The pacing is designed to balance sightseeing with relaxed enjoyment.

The lunch break can be taken at your own expense, as the tour allows up to one hour for a meal along the route. This flexibility makes it suitable for personal preferences and dietary needs.

Logistics, Accessibility, and Booking

The tour features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind. The meeting point is at Donegall Square North in Belfast, and the service animals are permitted.

Most travelers can participate, and the service is available every day from 7:00 AM to 7:30 PM. This schedule offers multiple departure times to fit different plans.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This private, customizable experience appeals to families, couples, or small groups seeking an intimate, flexible, and informative day. The guide’s expertise and personalized approach make it ideal for travelers who prefer tailored experiences and less crowded attractions.

The inclusion of scenic stops combined with the opportunity to add extra experiences makes it a well-rounded choice for those interested in both natural beauty and local landmarks.

Final Thoughts on the Giants Causeway & Antrim Coast Private Tour

This 7.5-hour private tour presents a convenient, flexible way to explore Northern Ireland’s best-known sights without the crowds or rigid schedules of larger group tours. The expert guides and customizable stops ensure a personalized experience, highlighting spectacular landscapes and historic sites.

While the ticket for the Giants Causeway is not included, the stop itself is a highlight worth planning ahead for. The additional cost for crossing the Rope Bridge or touring castles can enhance the experience, especially for history buffs.

This tour suits those who value comfort, flexibility, and local insights. It offers a relaxed pace to enjoy the stunning scenery and iconic landmarks of the North Antrim Coast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the private setting makes it adaptable for families.

Can I add extra stops or activities?
Yes, the tour can be customized to include additional visits like castle or distillery tours, or crossing the Rope Bridge for an extra fee.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers private transportation, air-conditioned vehicle, Wi-Fi, and bottled water. Tickets for the Giants Causeway are not included.

How long is the stop at the Giants Causeway?
The stop lasts approximately 2 hours, enough to explore and take photos.

Are there meal options during the tour?
The tour allows a one-hour stop for lunch, which travelers can arrange at their own expense.

Is parking included?
Parking fees are not included in the tour price.

What if I need to cancel?
Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Can service animals join the tour?
Yes, service animals are allowed.

What is the best time of day to book?
Multiple departure times are available from early morning to late afternoon, with the tour running every day from 7:00 AM.

How do I book this tour?
Reservations can be made through the provider’s platform, with confirmation provided at booking.