The Causeway Coastal Route in Northern Ireland is an unforgettable road trip packed with incredible sites and landmarks – and you’ve probably never even heard of it before
If you’re feeling the January blues and are in need of a relaxing getaway, why not consider a road trip?
Cinch, the UK’s largest online retailer of used cars, has unveiled one of the best mood-boosting road trips across Ireland, filled with breathtaking scenery. The Causeway Coastal Route in Northern Ireland is an awe-inspiring journey steeped in myth and legend.
It stretches from Belfast to Derry and boasts some truly remarkable sites and landmarks, including the Giant’s Causeway, Dunluce Castle and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. The Giants Causeway is a spectacular part of the country renowned for its unique rock formations.
On clear days, you can see Scotland and the Inishowen Peninsula from the rocks. Part of this serene walk follows the route of the Bushmills Heritage Railway and there are plenty of breeding skylarks, stonechats, linnets and the occasional chough to spot – perfect for the wildlife enthusiasts in your family.
Dunluce Castle is another iconic location, perched on top of the hillside and overlooking the wild sea. With evidence of settlement dating back to the first millennium, the current castle ruins mainly date from the 16th and 17th centuries and there are many historical artefacts and exhibitions to captivate you, reports the Express.
For the daring, there’s also the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. Dangling nearly 100 ft (30 m) above sea level, this rope bridge was initially put up by salmon fishermen over 250 years ago, leading to Carrick-a-Rede Island.
If you fancy crossing this bridge and experiencing the journey those fishermen embarked on centuries ago, it’s crucial to book in advance, particularly during the summer months. You can secure your crossing here.
Once you’ve had your share of thrills (and if you’re not behind the wheel), you could sample some 400 year old whisky from the world’s oldest working distillery – Old Bushmills.
