My brother, sister-in-law and myself visited Belfast for a long weekend primarily to visit Giant Causeway but we ended up having a great time in Belfast. Giant Causeway did not disappoint either.
The distance between Belfast and the Giant Causeway is about 60 miles. Having explored and discounted the option of going by train and bus, which would cost more and take much longer, we chose to go with City Tours Belfast on a day trip. It turned out to be the most delightful way of negotiating the distance as it took in many scenic spots along the Antrim Coast Road.
This part of Ireland boasts 25 different locations featured in the popular TV series Game of Thrones. I must be one of the few people who haven’t watched a single episode!
Carrickfergus Castle
Carrickfergus castle was our first stop. This medieval fortress was built by the Normans in 1177. Apparently it was featured in Game of Thrones as the backdrop for the castle in the series.
The harbour in the shadows of the castle is quaint and charming
Carnlough Harbour
This scenic harbour is 45 minutes’ drive from Carrickfergus Castle along the coastal road. It’s an old Irish fishing village that has not changed much in hundreds of years. Suddenly it finds tourists descending upon it because it was another location for the filming of Game of thrones!
The Dark Hedges
This is an avenue of beech trees on the grounds of The Hedges Hotel. When photographed with special-effect lighting, it forms an atmospheric and almost mystical tunnel. It’s amazing how this popular tourist attraction was created by an exposure of 6 seconds in an episode of Game of Thrones!
Views along the Coast Road
The Giant’s Causeway
Finally we reached the highlight of the tour – The Giant’s Causeway!
The Giant’s Causeway is a natural wonder on the northeast coast of Northern Ireland. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and nature reserve. The main draw of this natural phenomenon is the 40,000 interlocking columns of volcanic rock.
Following our guide Gavin’s suggestion we walked up the more challenging “red route” for a bird’s eye view of the stunning rugged coastal scenery. I then took the path to the lower part of the stones rather than to negotiate the top of the columns. I then took the bus back to the visitors’ centre for £1.
The coach took the fastest route back to Belfast to round up a fantastic though tiring day.
I am really pleased that Northern Ireland has put behind its turbulent past and forges ahead as a welcoming destination.
