Embark on an unforgettable journey to Northern Ireland’s natural wonder, the Giants Causeway, with a luxury bus tour from Belfast. Explore the iconic UNESCO World Heritage site, marveling at its distinctive hexagonal basalt columns cascading to the sea. Along the way, discover other captivating landmarks, from the imposing Carrickfergus Castle to the enchanting Dark Hedges, made famous by ‘Game of Thrones’. This tour offers an immersive experience, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the stunning scenery and rich local folklore. What awaits beyond the causeway’s legendary origins is a story that will leave you captivated.
Key Points
- Full-day tour from Belfast exploring Northern Ireland’s natural and historical wonders, including the iconic Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Aboard a luxury bus with a knowledgeable driver-guide providing live commentary.
- Opportunity to visit and explore the well-preserved medieval Carrickfergus Castle and the picturesque fishing village of Carnlough Harbour.
- Explore the mesmerizing, otherworldly tunnel of the Dark Hedges, a popular ‘Game of Thrones’ filming location.
- Spend 1 hour and 30 minutes exploring the distinctive hexagonal basalt columns of the Giant’s Causeway.
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Tour Overview
This full-day tour from Belfast provides an in-depth exploration of Northern Ireland’s natural and historical wonders, including the iconic Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Aboard a luxury bus, travelers will visit Carrickfergus Castle, one of the best-preserved medieval structures in the country.
The tour also includes stops at the picturesque Carnlough Harbour and the iconic Dark Hedges, a filming location for the popular television series ‘Game of Thrones.’
The highlight of the day is a visit to the Giant’s Causeway, where guests can marvel at the unique basalt columns and learn about the site’s geological and mythological significance.
Throughout the journey, travelers will be accompanied by a knowledgeable driver-guide who’ll provide live commentary.
Carrickfergus Castle
On the tour, travelers first visit Carrickfergus Castle, one of the best-preserved medieval structures in Northern Ireland. This imposing 12th-century Norman castle commands impressive views over the lough.
Visitors can explore the castle’s interior, including its well-preserved towers, dungeons, and banqueting hall. The tour allows 15 minutes to stroll the castle grounds and admire its impressive stone walls.
While entry to the castle isn’t included in the tour price, it’s an optional add-on that allows travelers to delve deeper into the site’s rich history.
Carnlough Harbour
After visiting the impressive Carrickfergus Castle, the tour makes a brief 15-minute stop at the picturesque Carnlough Harbour.
Nestled along the Antrim Coast, this quaint fishing village offers travelers a chance to stroll along its charming waterfront and admire the traditional Irish architecture lining the shores.
The harbor is a hub of activity, with local fishermen tending to their boats and small shops and cafes dotting the area.
Key attractions at Carnlough Harbour include:
- The picturesque harbor basin
- The historic bridge spanning the waterway
- The colorful buildings and shops along the shore
- Scenic views of the surrounding Antrim Hills
This tranquil respite along the tour route allows visitors to soak in the serene coastal ambiance of Northern Ireland.
The Dark Hedges
Next, the tour makes a stop at the iconic Dark Hedges, where visitors can spend around 1 hour and 30 minutes admiring this famous natural wonder.
The Dark Hedges is a striking avenue of intertwining beech trees that have grown into an otherworldly tunnel, creating a truly mesmerizing sight. Travelers can explore the winding path, snap photos, and enjoy the serene, atmospheric setting that has made this location a popular filming location for the hit television series Game of Thrones.
The gnarled, moss-covered trees create a magical, enchanting ambiance, making the Dark Hedges a must-see highlight of the Giants Causeway tour from Belfast.
Giants Causeway
The tour’s highlight is the Giants Causeway, Northern Ireland’s only UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors spend around 1 hour and 30 minutes exploring this natural wonder, marveling at the distinctive hexagonal basalt columns that cascade down to the sea. They can wander along the coastline, admire the iconic formations, and learn about the site’s unique geology and legends from the local guide.
The Giants Causeway is renowned for:
- Its dramatic coastal landscape
- The fascinating geological origins of the basalt columns
- The rich folklore and myths surrounding the site
- The opportunity to experience this natural wonder firsthand
Dunluce Castle
Dunluce Castle, a dramatic and atmospheric ruin, sits perched atop a rocky headland along the Antrim Coast. Visitors spend around 15 minutes exploring the castle, marveling at its imposing 16th-century architecture and the stunning coastal scenery that surrounds it. The castle’s tumultuous history includes tales of a banquet hall that once collapsed into the sea, as well as legends of ghosts that are said to still haunt the site.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Construction | Built in the 16th century on the site of an earlier medieval castle |
| Architectural Style | Imposing stone fortress with towers and defensive walls |
| Significance | One of the most iconic and picturesque castles in Northern Ireland |
| Visitor Experience | Exploring the castle ruins and taking in the dramatic coastal views |
Inclusions and Meeting
The tour includes a driver/guide who provides live commentary throughout the journey, as well as a local guide and tour escort to enhance the experience.
Meeting for the tour takes place at the Citysightseeing Belfast Tour Shop, with check-in at 8:45am and a prompt 9:00am departure.
The tour includes:
- Driver/guide
- Live commentary on board
- Local guide
- Tour escort/host
Visitors are encouraged to arrive at the meeting point, which is located facing the Grand Opera House, with the check-in inside the shop. The tour departs at 9:00am sharp, ensuring a timely start to the day’s adventure.
Itinerary Highlights
Commencing the tour, visitors explore Carrickfergus Castle, a medieval stronghold dating back to the 12th century.
Next, they take in the picturesque Carnlough Harbour before venturing to the iconic Dark Hedges, a striking avenue of ancient beech trees.
The highlight of the day arrives at the Giants Causeway, Northern Ireland’s sole UNESCO World Heritage site, where travelers enjoy ample time to wander the unique basalt columns and marvel at the dramatic coastal scenery.
The tour then ventures to Dunluce Castle, the atmospheric ruins of a medieval castle perched atop a rocky outcrop overlooking the North Atlantic.
Throughout the journey, the knowledgeable driver-guide provides live commentary, enhancing the overall experience.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Bus?
Passengers are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the bus. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand to ensure they have no restrictions in place.
What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for the Tour?
The cancellation and refund policy allows for full refunds up to 24 hours before the tour’s start time. Within 24 hours, no refunds are given. There may be rescheduling options available at the tour operator’s discretion.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?
The tour offers discounts for children and seniors. Children under 12 receive a reduced price, while seniors 65 and older qualify for a discounted rate. Customers should inquire about specific pricing when booking the tour.
How Long Is the Total Travel Time From Belfast to the Giants Causeway?
The total travel time from Belfast to the Giants Causeway is approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. This includes stops at Carrickfergus Castle, Carnlough Harbour, the Dark Hedges, and Dunluce Castle along the way.
Can We Customize the Itinerary or Make Additional Stops Along the Way?
The tour itinerary is fixed, but passengers can discuss additional stops or customizations with the driver/guide. However, the overall tour duration and sightseeing time at each attraction are predetermined to ensure a smooth and timely schedule.
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Recap
The Giants Causeway Tour from Belfast offers an unforgettable journey through Northern Ireland’s breathtaking landscapes and historical sites.
Travelers can explore the iconic Giants Causeway, Carrickfergus Castle, the Dark Hedges, and more, all while enjoying the comfort of a luxury bus.
With ample time to take in the stunning scenery and local folklore, this tour provides an exceptional experience for visitors to this captivating region.
