From Belfast: Private Giants Causeway Coastal Tour

Exploring the North Antrim Coast on a Private Giants Causeway Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Belfast and want to see the highlights of Northern Ireland’s rugged coast, this private Giants Causeway Coastal Tour offers a personalized and comprehensive experience. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the carefully curated itinerary and enthusiastic reviews suggest it’s a fantastic way to get a taste of authentic Northern Irish scenery, history, and film fame—all in one day.

What we love about this experience is its flexibility and depth. The chance to customize your stops means you can focus more on what excites you, whether that’s the UNESCO-listed Giants Causeway or the iconic Game of Thrones filming locations. Plus, the private transport, guided insights, and comfortable vehicle make for a relaxed day. On the flip side, it’s a full-day commitment, so it’s worth ensuring the pace suits your travel style. This tour would be perfect for travelers who appreciate personalized service, love scenic drives, and want to combine nature with cultural and cinematic highlights.

Key Points

• Flexible, private tour tailored to your interests and schedule
• Includes major highlights like Giants Causeway, Dunluce Castle, and Bushmills Distillery
• Perfect for Game of Thrones fans with stops at filming locations
• Expert guide with knowledge of local history and behind-the-scenes stories
• Comfortable transport and bottled water included
• Consider booking in advance for certain attractions like the Rope Bridge or Castle entry

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

This private tour from Belfast to the North Antrim Coast is packed with enough highlights to fill an entire day, yet it’s designed to feel intimate and flexible. The ability to customize the itinerary means you can focus on your favorite spots or extend your time at certain locations if you wish—just ask ahead.

The journey begins with a pick-up from your Belfast accommodation, and from there, you’re whisked away in a private vehicle with a knowledgeable driver-guide. This setup not only provides comfort but also allows for personalized attention. The overall duration of around 7 hours strikes a good balance—long enough to see the key sights without rushing.

The Itinerary in Detail

Dark Hedges – The Enchanting Tree Tunnel

Your day kicks off with a drive along the motorway, then a turn onto Armoy’s scenic countryside to reach the Dark Hedges, a natural marvel with over 300-year-old beech trees. Their twisted branches form a dramatic tunnel that’s instantly recognizable from the Game of Thrones series as King’s Road. Whether you’re a fan or not, the sight of these ancient trees is sure to impress. One reviewer noted, “Guide was very knowledgeable and had been a driver for cast and crew of Game of Thrones which was a big plus!”

Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge – A Thrilling Viewpoint

Next, you’ll stop at the Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge. Suspended nearly 100 meters above the Atlantic, this bridge offers stunning views of Rathlin Island, Carrick-A-Rede itself, and even glimpses of the Scottish coast. Tickets must be purchased beforehand if you want to cross, but for those who prefer just to admire the view, the viewing platform is equally captivating. If you choose to cross, you’ll need to add some time to your schedule—so plan accordingly.

More Great Tours Nearby

Ballintoy Harbour – Picturesque Coastal Charm

Continuing along the coast, the charming Ballintoy Harbour awaits. Its rugged rocks, lime caves, and calm waters make it a perfect spot for photos and soaking in the seascape. One traveler described it as “serene,” which captures the quiet beauty of this spot.

White Park Bay Viewing Point – Breathtaking Coastal Scenery

As you head further along, the White Park Bay Viewing Point provides sweeping views of a long, golden beach that’s perfect for a quick photo or just taking in the Atlantic’s vastness. The scenery here is dramatic and invigorating, especially if you enjoy wide-open spaces and crashing waves.

Dunseverick Castle Ruins – A Glimpse Into the Past

Perched on the coastline, the ruins of Dunseverick Castle give a tangible link to Ireland’s history. While much of it has fallen into ruin, the remaining stones tell stories of past fortresses and maritime significance. It’s a quick stop, but one packed with character.

The Giants Causeway – The Eighth Wonder of the World

Of course, no trip to the North Coast is complete without visiting the Giants Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its hexagonal basalt columns created by ancient volcanic activity. As one reviewer put it, “a Finn McCool moment,” referencing the local legend. You’ll have time to explore the stones, take photos, and perhaps enjoy a little quiet reflection. Remember, tickets for the visitor center have to be purchased in advance, but the stones themselves are free to walk among. Parking costs about £10, payable locally.

Lunch Break at The Causeway Hotel

Most travelers opt for a break at the Causeway Hotel, which offers a cozy spot for a meal (note: lunch is not included in the tour). The hotel provides a good chance to relax and discuss the morning’s highlights.

Dunluce Castle Viewpoint & Bushmills Distillery

Moving west, you’ll stop at Dunluce Castle viewpoint, where the dramatic ruins perched on cliffs evoke stories of medieval Ireland. To explore the castle itself, tickets need to be purchased in advance, so plan to add more time if you want to go inside.

Finally, the tour concludes at the Bushmills Distillery, the world’s oldest licensed whiskey distillery since 1608. Here, you’ll have time to browse the shop and, if you wish, sample some whiskey at your own expense—a fitting end to a day filled with history, scenery, and stories.

What the Experience Means for You

This tour combines natural beauty, history, and pop culture in a way that’s hard to match. The inclusion of film locations like Dark Hedges is a real draw for fans, while the geological wonder of Giants Causeway offers a visual feast for all visitors. The stops at castles and ruins give a sense of Ireland’s layered past, and the distillery visit adds a flavor of local craftsmanship.

The private guide isn’t just a driver; they’re a storyteller who can tailor the experience. According to reviews, guides are not only knowledgeable but often have interesting behind-the-scenes stories—such as being involved with Game of Thrones filming—which adds depth to the journey.

The vehicle itself is described as very comfortable, and bottled water keeps you refreshed throughout the day. The flexibility to extend stops or customize the route enhances the value—especially if you’re traveling with specific interests in mind.

Practical Considerations and Value

While the base price doesn’t include entry fees or lunch, the overall value lies in the convenience and personalized approach. You won’t need to worry about navigating or parking, and the guide’s insights turn a sightseeing drive into an engaging storytelling experience.

Booking in advance is advisable, especially for attractions like Dunluce Castle or crossing the Rope Bridge. The 7-hour duration means you’ll see a lot without feeling rushed, but if you’re keen to explore more or spend extra time at certain spots, you can opt for a longer tour by purchasing additional hours.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This private Giants Causeway Coastal Tour is ideal for travelers who want a customized, relaxed day with a knowledgeable guide. It suits those interested in easily accessible history, scenic drives, and iconic film locations. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or families who appreciate comfort and flexibility. If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, the stops at Dark Hedges and other filming sites will add special magic. Foodies and history buffs will also find the mix of castles, ruins, and whiskey enough to keep everyone engaged.

The Sum Up

This private tour from Belfast offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and cinematic history—all delivered at a comfortable pace with personalized service. The ability to customize your day means you’ll get exactly what you want from your time on Northern Ireland’s stunning coast. Whether you’re marveling at the hexagonal columns of Giants Causeway, walking beneath the ancient beech trees of Dark Hedges, or enjoying a whiskey tasting at Bushmills, this experience makes visiting the North Coast both memorable and easy.

For travelers who appreciate a well-organized, intimate adventure that combines scenic vistas with stories and local flavor, this tour hits the mark. Just be sure to book ahead for certain attractions, and come prepared for a full, rewarding day of exploring the wild heart of Northern Ireland.

FAQ

Can I customize this tour? Yes, the tour can be tailored to your preferences. Contact the provider beforehand to discuss additional stops or longer durations.

Do I need to buy tickets in advance for attractions? Yes, tickets are required in advance for the Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge, Dunluce Castle, and inside Dunluce Castle if you wish to explore the ruins.

Is lunch included? No, lunch is not included. There are options available at The Causeway Hotel or nearby eateries.

What’s the best time to take this tour? Check the availability for starting times, but since it’s a 7-hour experience, mornings often work best to maximize daylight.

Is transportation comfortable? Yes, the tour features private, comfortable transport with bottled water provided.

Can I join this tour with a wheelchair? Yes, it is wheelchair accessible.

In short, this private Giants Causeway Coastal Tour offers a well-rounded day of scenic beauty, cultural sights, and cinematic charm—perfect for travelers seeking a flexible, insightful experience in Northern Ireland.

You can check availability for your dates here: