Carnlough is one of the most picturesque villages on the Causeway Coastal Route. Its sheltered stone harbour sits beneath the slopes of Glencloy, with fishing boats, waterfront buildings and views across the Irish Sea creating a wonderfully peaceful setting. Carnlough Harbour is an excellent location for a short walk, refreshments or photographs. It is also recognisable to television fans as a filming location used in Game of Thrones.

Known as the heart of the Glens, Cushendall is a welcoming village surrounded by the hills and valleys of the Antrim countryside. Its village streets, traditional pubs and strong connection with Irish music and culture make it a worthwhile stop for guests interested in the living traditions of the region. Depending on timing, Cushendall may be included as a refreshment, lunch or short walking stop.

Suspended high above the Atlantic Ocean, the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge connects the mainland with the small rocky island of Carrick-a-Rede. First erected by salmon fishermen more than 250 years ago, the bridge offers an exhilarating crossing and remarkable views of the surrounding cliffs, islands and clear coastal waters. Reaching the bridge requires a coastal walk. Crossing is optional and must be booked in advance. It remains subject to ticket availability, weather, wind conditions and the guests’ mobility and comfort with heights. Guests who prefer not to cross may still enjoy the surrounding coastal scenery and viewpoints. Admission to the Visitor Centre is £16 per adult. Tickets can be purchased on site.

More than 40,000 interlocking basalt columns descend towards the Atlantic Ocean, creating one of the most remarkable natural landscapes anywhere in Ireland. The columns were formed by volcanic activity approximately 60 million years ago. Irish legend offers a more colourful explanation, telling how the great warrior Fionn mac Cumhaill, or Finn McCool, built the causeway across the sea towards Scotland. Guests will have time to walk to the famous stones, explore the coastal landscape and learn about the extraordinary meeting of geology, mythology and natural history. The Giant’s Causeway was Ireland’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admission to the Visitor Centre is £16 per adult. Tickets can be purchased on site.

Planted during the 18th century, the Dark Hedges form a remarkable avenue of mature beech trees whose branches meet above the road to create a natural tunnel. The avenue became internationally known after appearing as the Kingsroad in Game of Thrones. The Dark Hedges may be included as an optional inland variation during the outward or return journey, depending on time, traffic and access arrangements.