Giant's Causeway & Rathlin Island Hike - 6 Days

Arrive in the charming harbour town of Ballycastle, gateway to the Causeway Coast. A heritage town with a rich history, the town is very picturesque with quaint shops and historic buildings. The town also boasts some great seafood restaurants and lively pubs. Ballycastle is accessible by train and bus from Belfast International Airport and City Airport via Coleraine or Ballymena (journey time 2 -3 hours). Alternatively we can arrange a private transfer. Please request this with your travel consultant when you book. Accommodation: Two nights at a small and welcoming B&B in a Victorian guest house close to the harbour and town centre in Ballycastle.

Start your hiking experience with a trip to Rathlin Island. Rathlin Island is a small L-shaped island with a small human population of around 150 people and a large population of nesting seabirds. Northern Ireland’s most northerly point, the island is just 4 miles from east to west and 2.5 miles from north to south. There are three lighthouses standing like monuments on the wild coastline where 40 ships have been recorded wrecked in the ocean below. Despite the tempestuous seas, the island itself is a haven of peace and tranquility and is wildlife reserve. There are 2 walk options for Rathlin Island, depending your preference for walking distance, both offering exploration and the chance of seeing nesting birds. Puffins, kittiwakes, guillemots and curlews all spend part of the summer months here. Option 1 is a 13km round trip and Option 2 is 8km. The island is a 45 minute ferry trip away from Ballycastle, and tickets (not included) must be arranged in advance. Full details will be provided when you book.

Ballycastle, known as the northern gateway to the Glens of Antrim, has a rich history that dates back to around 1565 when a son of Sorley Boy McDonnell, the first Earl of Antrim, built a castle in the heart of the town's historic centre. While the castle no longer stands today, this charming area is well worth exploring on foot before heading to Ballintoy. Leaving Ballycastle, you will follow a peaceful country road to Clare Woods. After a short section of scenic forest trail, continue along quiet rural roads, passing through the farming communities of Craignagolman and Ballaghcravey. Your journey will bring you to the world-renowned Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, a must-see attraction in the region. Suspended over an 100-foot chasm above the sea, this iconic rope bridge is sure to thrill if you dare cross! Tickets can be purchased on-site for those who wish to make the crossing (best purchased online in advance), while others can enjoy exploring the surrounding countryside. Accommodation: Overnight in a warm and welcoming B&B overlooking the sea in Ballintoy.

High cliffs, ruined castles and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Giant’s Causeway, this hike is world-class! Follow the markers for the Causeway Coast Way to reach Portbradden and then pass Dunseverick Castle and along the cliff-top path to Benbane Head. Ultimately, the Causeway Coast Way takes you to the Giant’s Causeway where you can explore the stunning hexagonal basalt columns formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago. The trail is generally easy to moderate but there are some steep and exposed sections today so care is needed while you enjoy the incredible views along the way. Visit the Giant’s Causeway visitor centre (fee payable) to learn more about the history and geology of this incredible place. Accommodation: Overnight at a comfortable Guest House close to the Giant’s Causeway with views of the surrounding landscape and out to the Sea of Moyle.

On the final day of your Northern Ireland walking tour, you follow the coastal way with stunning views of Binbane Cove, Dunluce Castle, The Burnfoot, and The White Rocks as you head toward Portrush. Deviate to the small town of Bushmills if you’d like to visit the famous whiskey distillery. Descend to the beach at Curran Strand, where you can enjoy views of the nearby Skerries islands, including the Big and Little Skerries. Afterward, explore the charming town of Portrush and linger for some souvenir shopping before continuing the last leg of your journey to Portstewart. Although a longer day, the stretch of trail is beautiful and is mostly low-level walking on a mix of gravel paths, seaside promenades, quiet roads and grassy paths. Accommodation: Overnight in a small hotel in Portstewart and dine out at one of the multitude of restaurants in this friendly town in County Londonderry.

Enjoy a final Irish breakfast and pack your bags ready to depart. From Portstewart, you can travel via local bus to Coleraine from where there is an express bus service to Belfast (1hr 40mins). You may wish to extend your stay in Ireland to visit Londonderry or travel further south. Please discuss options with your travel consultant when you book.