Private Giants Causeway and Antrim Coast Tour

Discover the Private Giants Causeway and Antrim Coast Tour from Belfast

This private tour of the Giants Causeway offers a personalized experience of Northern Ireland’s most iconic sights for up to 4 guests at $1,097.25. With a duration of 8 to 10 hours, it provides the flexibility to explore at your own pace with pickup and drop-off from any Belfast location. The tour features a private vehicle and a professional guide, ensuring a smooth and intimate journey through some of the country’s most breathtaking scenery.

What makes this tour stand out is its highly customizable nature, allowing visitors to tailor the stops according to interests. The itinerary includes notable attractions like Dunluce Castle, Bushmills Distillery, Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge, and the Dark Hedges. The guide’s expertise, combined with the flexibility of a private driver, ensures a relaxed yet comprehensive exploration, perfect for travelers seeking an authentic Northern Irish experience.

Key Points

• Private, customizable tour of the Giants Causeway and Antrim Coast for up to 4 guests
• Duration of 8 to 10 hours, including multiple scenic stops
• Pickup and drop-off from any Belfast location for convenience
• Visits Dunluce Castle, Bushmills Distillery, Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge, and Dark Hedges
• Experience spectacular views of Rathlin Island and the Atlantic coastline
• Designed for those who prefer a personalized, flexible day with expert guidance

Starting Point: Belfast Pickup and Private Transport

The tour begins with hotel or port pickup within Belfast. Guests enjoy the comfort of a private Mercedes van operated by a professional guide and driver. This setup guarantees a stress-free start and allows for an itinerary tailored to your interests, with the driver ready to adjust stops and timing as needed.

The private nature of the tour means no large groups or crowded bus schedules. It’s ideal for families, friends, or small groups who want the freedom to explore at their own pace and focus on the sights that matter most to them.

Scenic Drive Along the Causeway Coastal Route

The first leg of the journey takes you along the Causeway Coastal Route, renowned for its spectacular views of the Rathlin Island and rugged coastline. The drive itself becomes part of the adventure, with plenty of opportunities to take photos of the dramatic cliffs and ocean vistas.

This stretch is considered one of the most visited destinations in Europe, with breathtaking landscapes unfolding as the private vehicle meanders along the coast. It sets the tone for a day filled with natural beauty and striking scenery.

Exploring Carnlough Harbour and its Connection to Game of Thrones

The first stop is the picturesque fishing village of Carnlough, where visitors can enjoy a brief comfort break. This harbor, built in the nineteenth century during the famine years, retains an old-world charm that feels untouched by time.

A notable feature is its appearance in Series six of Game of Thrones, where it served as a filming location. This adds a fun dimension for fans of the series, tying together cinematic history with traditional Irish coastal life.

Crossing the Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge

One of the tour’s highlights is the Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge, famous for spanning a 75-foot chasm. Crossing the bridge offers an exhilarating experience, with views of the Atlantic Ocean and the rugged coastline.

It’s important to note that crossing depends on weather conditions and timing, and pre-booking tickets is recommended if you wish to cross. For those with mobility issues or small children, there’s a viewing point for photos if crossing isn’t feasible. The walk from the car park to the bridge is about a mile, which may require some walking, but the scenery along the way makes it worthwhile.

Visiting Ballintoy Harbour and ‘The Iron Islands’

Next, the tour stops at Ballintoy Harbour, known for its appearance in Game of Thrones as the Iron Islands. The harbor is famous for Theon Greyjoy’s return and the baptisms in the Drowned God’s waters.

Guests have 30 minutes to explore this charming harbor, which offers fantastic photo opportunities of coastal cliffs and fishing boats. It’s a great spot to absorb the maritime atmosphere and appreciate the rugged beauty of the Irish coast.

White Park Bay: A Scenic Tip of Ireland

A quick stop at White Park Bay provides a stunning view of a long sandy beach at the tip of Ireland. Located just 800 miles from Iceland, the bay’s natural beauty and expansive shoreline make it a perfect place for a brief walk or photo session.

This 15-minute stop allows visitors to enjoy the fresh sea air and take in the sweeping views of the Atlantic, making it a peaceful pause in the day’s itinerary.

Visiting the Giants Causeway: The UNESCO World Heritage Site

The main attraction is, of course, the Giants Causeway, known for its 40,000 interlocking hexagonal basalt columns formed by volcanic activity. Visitors get around an hour to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site, with the opportunity to walk along the shores and marvel at the natural geometric formations.

While admission fees for the causeway are not included, access to the site is straightforward, and the guide provides context about its geological and mythological significance. The site’s rugged beauty and unique formations make it a highlight for nature lovers and curious explorers alike.

Tasting Irish Whiskey at Bushmills Distillery

Next, the tour visits Old Bushmills Distillery, established in 1608, making it the oldest working distillery in Ireland. A 30-minute visit includes a tasting room experience, where visitors can sample some of the finest Irish whiskeys.

The distillery’s long history and production process add depth to the visit, complementing the day’s journey through Ireland’s cultural landmarks.

Dunluce Castle: Ruins with a View

A 15-minute stop at Dunluce Castle offers an opportunity for photos of the dramatic ruins perched on the coast. The castle’s picturesque location atop cliffs provides stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the rugged coastline.

While the guide does not include admission fees for the castle, the exterior views alone are worth the stop, especially for photography enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

The Dark Hedges: A Natural Phenomenon

The tour concludes with a visit to the Dark Hedges, a famous avenue of intertwined beech trees planted in the eighteenth century. Known as the Kings Road from Game of Thrones, this site offers a magnetic natural landscape renowned worldwide.

Guests have 20 minutes to walk among the trees, capturing photos of this iconic scene. The Dark Hedges continue to draw visitors for their mystical atmosphere and cinematic history.

Flexibility and Personalization at Every Step

Throughout the tour, the driver-guide is attentive to preferences, allowing extra time at favorite spots, or adjusting the itinerary if weather or other conditions require. This private experience ensures a comfortable and relaxed pace, with ample opportunities for photos and short walks.

The tour’s design emphasizes customization and comfort, making it especially suitable for travelers who want a tailored exploration of Northern Ireland’s highlights without the constraints of larger group tours.

Final Thoughts on the Giants Causeway and Antrim Coast Private Tour

This private tour from Belfast offers a well-rounded, personalized experience of some of Northern Ireland’s most stunning sights. The inclusion of key attractions like the Giants Causeway, Dunluce Castle, and Bushmills Distillery is complemented by the scenic drives along the coast and the culturally significant landmarks such as the Dark Hedges.

The tour benefits from passionate guides, flexible pacing, and the comfort of private transportation, making it ideal for those seeking an immersive and customized day. The cost reflects the personalized nature and includes pickup, drop-off, and private vehicle, but remember that entry fees and food are not included.

Travelers with a keen interest in natural formations, Irish history, and cinematic locations will find this tour rewarding. The only potential limitation is the price point for small groups, but the intimacy and flexibility often justify the investment.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 8 to 10 hours.

What is included in the price?
The private transportation, guide/driver, and hotel or port pickup and drop-off are included. Entry fees and food are not included.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes, the tour is private and flexible, allowing you to adjust stops and timing based on your preferences.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
There is a 1-mile walk to the Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge, which may be challenging for some. Viewing points are available if crossing the bridge isn’t possible.

What attractions are part of this tour?
Stops include Carnlough Harbour, Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge, Ballintoy Harbour, White Park Bay, Giants Causeway, Bushmills Distillery, Dunluce Castle, and the Dark Hedges.

Are admission fees included?
No, admission fees for sites like the Giants Causeway, Bushmills Distillery, and Dunluce Castle are not included.

How do I book the tour?
Bookings are made through the provider, Belfast Tours NI, with confirmation received at the time of booking.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of personalization, comprehensive scenic stops, and the expert guidance contribute to a memorable and tailored Northern Ireland experience.