Introduction

This website dedicated to the Causeway Coastal Route and has been researched, photographed, and is voluntarily maintained by Art Ward. Over decades Art has gathered thousands of beautiful images of the area while immersing himself in the history, heritage, and culture of these locations.

Motivated by a genuine desire to share his knowledge he took a natural step forward with this website to offering invaluable personal insight and information for anyone taking a trip along the Causeway Coastal Route. What sets this website apart is its commitment to authenticity.

Take your time to explore the wealth of information and captivating visuals available here, immerse yourself in the wonders of the Causeway Coastal Route and let Art be your guide. Enjoy your visit to this invaluable resource for your upcoming journey.

The Route

This covers a distance of 120 miles (190 km) between Belfast and Derry/Londonderry with a further 256 miles (410 km) on nine scenic loop drives. These are through landscape ranging from picturesque seashores to majestic mountain peaks, bustling cities to quaint hamlets and charming coastal harbours. 

You will travel an primarily 'A' class category roads from both cities, along the scenic drives, you'll encounter 'B' category roads, adding a touch of exploration to your journey. On a few of the loop drives you will encounter minor single-lane roads. For specific details regarding distances and road conditions, please refer to the 'Loop Drives' menu above.

Immerse yourself in an adventure along the Causeway Coastal Route where every mile promises a blend of awe-inspiring landscapes, memorable encounters, and cherished moments.

Time needed

To fully enjoy a leisurely trip from Belfast to Derry while exploring the main attractions and taking in the beauty of the scenic drives, it is recommended to allocate 3 to 5 days. While you can drive the route in a single day, allowing more time will enhance your experience by offering opportunities to see and discover more.

If you are incorporating this route into a larger travel itinerary such as the 'Wild Atlantic Way' or 'Mourne Coastal Route,' a practical approach would be to research the various locations and select accommodation near the places that interest you the most. If your primary focus is to enjoy the route itself then opting for centrally located accommodation is advisable. This way, you can fully explore the entire route while conveniently staying in one location.

It is worth noting that the itineraries of some tour operators can feel rushed, overcrowded, and limiting, missing out on the true essence and character of places. Whether you choose to travel on foot, cycle, or car, the ideal experience lies in taking your time to allow for a deeper appreciation of the localities.

Cycling and Walking

During the summer season, the route tends to be quite busy. While it is cycled and walked, those seeking a quieter and more relaxed journey may find it beneficial to use the main route only when necessary. I recommend making use of the network of walks, cycle routes, and trails that traverse the coastal area. You'll be pleasantly surprised by how much better these alternative can be.

It is important to note that this approach may require more time to complete the journey, however, with careful planning, it is entirely possible to visit all the key locations while following recommended walks and cycle routes that offer a more peaceful experience.If you're looking for a relatively quiet experience  the best time to visit is from late October through to March.

For more detailed information on available trails and cycle routes, I recommend websites www.walkni.com and www.cycleni.com. These resources will provide you with valuable insights and guidance to help you make the most of your journey.

Safety

The Causeway Coastal Route provides a safe and welcoming environment for individuals and families to visit and explore. The majority of the route consists of rural areas where you will encounter friendly, curious, and generally helpful people. While it may not be perfect, incidents involving troublesome individuals are quite rare along this route.

To ensure a smooth and worry-free experience it is advisable to take normal precautions. When leaving your car unattended, it is recommended to remove all valuables from view. In urban areas, such as the cities along the route it is important to remain vigilant and keep your bag securely fastened. Bag snatchers do operate in these areas without distinguishing between locals and visitors. Fortunately, such incidents are relatively rare.

By exercising these common-sense measures you can fully enjoy your journey along the Causeway Coastal Route, confident in the knowledge that you are taking the necessary steps to ensure your safety and peace of mind.

Accommodation & Food

If you are planning a trip during the summer season it is important to book your accommodation in advance, and secure ticket entrance to  the main attractions. Summer is a busy time, and availability may be limited if you wait until the last minute. It is worth noting that some accommodation providers close during the winter season, so planning ahead becomes important during this time.

When it comes to eating along the route you will find facilities are concentrated in small towns, villages, or near the main attractions. However, be aware that during the winter season many establishments may have reduced hours or may even close temporarily. To avoid disappointment it is recommended to make restaurant reservations regardless of the season. Alternatively, you will find that most public houses and hotels offer walk-in bar snack menus and some accommodation providers provide evening meals. Additionally, local cafes can be found in most villages and towns, offering an array of dining options.

By planning ahead and making necessary reservations, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience regardless of the time of year you choose to visit.