{"id":1248,"date":"2024-03-01T12:42:38","date_gmt":"2024-03-01T12:42:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/alltripsstore.com\/how-to-visit-the-giants-causeway-in-northern-ireland\/"},"modified":"2024-03-01T12:42:38","modified_gmt":"2024-03-01T12:42:38","slug":"how-to-visit-the-giants-causeway-in-northern-ireland","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/alltripsstore.com\/ar\/how-to-visit-the-giants-causeway-in-northern-ireland\/","title":{"rendered":"How To Visit the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland"},"content":{"rendered":"
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When road tripping along the rugged landscape of County Antrim, you will find Northern Ireland\u2019s only UNESCO World Heritage Site and most visited attraction, the Giant\u2019s Causeway. It truly is a natural wonder. But, depending on when you go, your Giant\u2019s Causeway visit can be amazing or average. We will share how to visit the Giant\u2019s Causeway with insider tips for how to avoid the crowds, where to find the best places to stay, and what you will actually see when you make a stop at this awe-inspiring destination along the Causeway Coast. <\/p>\n

If you\u2019re planning a visit and want to make the most of your trip guide to experiencing the Giant\u2019s Causeway like a pro, you have come to the right place. We have visited the Giant\u2019s Causeway three times on organized tours and independently. We\u2019ve marveled at its unique basalt columns at sunrise, sunset, and everywhere in between. So, are you ready to fall in love with the Giant\u2019s Causeway like we did? Let\u2019s go! <\/p>\n

Tips for Visiting the Giant\u2019s Causeway<\/h2>\n
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The Giant\u2019s Causeway never ceases to amaze us, its basalt columns look like perfectly placed stepping stones leading out to the water\u2019s edge. However, one of our Giant\u2019s Causeway visits was less than stellar due to crowds because we visited at the wrong time of day. So, to help you avoid making the same mistake we made on our first visit, we will share the best ways to visit the Giant\u2019s Causeway from out other experiences exploring the North Antrim Coast of Northern Ireland. <\/p>\n

This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a magical landscape steeped in myth and beauty. Known for its unique basalt columns formed by ancient volcanic fissure eruptions, the Giant\u2019s Causeway is Northern Ireland\u2019s most popular attraction. It is truly incredible and lives up to the hype. <\/p>\n

Where is the Giant\u2019s Causeway<\/h2>\n
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The Giant\u2019s Causeway is located in County Antrim on the northeast coast of Northern Ireland, about 60 miles from Belfast. The best way to reach this iconic landmark is by car, offering the flexibility to explore at your own pace. Check for Rental Car Prices here. <\/p>\n

Driving from Belfast takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes via the M2 and A26, leading you through some of Northern Ireland\u2019s most picturesque landscapes. It is just 2.5 miles north of Bushmills Village and 1 hour and 20 minutes from Belfast. <\/p>\n

Public transportation options include train services from Belfast to Coleraine, followed by a connecting bus to the Causeway. There is bus service from Balintoy Village. <\/p>\n

If you don\u2019t have a car, you can join a guided tour from Belfast or Derry\/Londonderry, which often includes other attractions along the Causeway Coast.<\/p>\n

The best time to visit The Giant\u2019s Causeway<\/h2>\n
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The Giant\u2019s Causeway is open year-round, so you can visit anytime. However, the best times to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site are the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November). <\/p>\n

During these months, visitors can enjoy mild weather and fewer crowds. Temperatures during these seasons average a comfortable 10\u00b0C to 15\u00b0C (50\u00b0F to 59\u00b0F), ideal for walking and photography. <\/p>\n

While the summer months (July and August) promise warmer weather, with temperatures ranging from 15\u00b0C to 20\u00b0C (59\u00b0F to 68\u00b0F), they also bring the peak tourist season, resulting in larger crowds and longer wait times. <\/p>\n

The winter months, though less crowded, can be challenging due to colder temperatures, around 5\u00b0C to 8\u00b0C (41\u00b0F to 46\u00b0F), and shorter daylight hours. <\/p>\n

Best Time of Day to Visit<\/h2>\n
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The best time to visit the Giant\u2019s Causeway during the day is at sunrise or sunset. The Visitor Centre is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily, but you can visit outside of opening hours. <\/p>\n

To truly appreciate its splendor without the crowds, aim to visit either early in the morning or late in the afternoon. We visited both times in different years and times of year, and both times, we had it virtually to ourselves. Plus the softer light made for stunning photographs as we enjoyed quieter moments while roaming the site. <\/p>\n

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Posing on the pillars<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

We walked down at sunrise well before the visitor center opened and could hike all over the weathered rock formations, taking in views from different angles. By the time the buses started arriving, we had our fill and went back to the hotel for breakfast. <\/p>\n

We did the same thing at night. Once the buses left, we walked down to watch the sunset with a group of two other people. When you are along the Giant\u2019s Causeway, it is truly magical. <\/p>\n

The one time we were on a bus tour, we arrived in mid-day, and it was chaos. <\/p>\n

Many people visit the Giant\u2019s Causeway on a road trip around the Causeway Coast or as part of a day tour from Belfast. The guided tours and bus tours stop at the Giant\u2019s Causeway starting at 10 am, so if you can get in before that, you will have a better time. <\/p>\n

What is the Giant\u2019s Causeway<\/h2>\n
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The Giant\u2019s Causeway is a unique natural phenomena of exceptional beauty easily making its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was formed 60 million years ago during a volcanic eruption and it is truly a wonder of the world. There are more than 40 thousand basalt columns that are perfectly stacked, creating what looks like a giant set of interlocking bricks leading out to the sea. <\/p>\n

The basalt columns were formed during the eruption when the flowing lava crashed into the waves of the sea. As the ocean cooled the lava, it turned them into volcanic stones. There are similar basalt columns worldwide, including in Iceland and across the sea; you can visit the Scottish Island Staffa Flow (Isle of Staffa) to see Fingals Cave, which is another amazing sight that was formed by volcanic activity. <\/p>\n

Giant\u2019s Causeway Visitor Centre<\/h2>\n
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The Giant\u2019s Causeway is run by the National Trust, which is an organization that promotes the preservation of natural and architectural wonders. They have created a Visitor Center to enhance the visitor experience with interactive displays and an interpretation area that blends seamlessly with the landscape. <\/p>\n

If you have a National Trust Membership, entrance is free<\/strong>. Most tourists obviously won\u2019t have a membership, so let\u2019s go through the coasts. <\/p>\n

If you stay at the Causeway Hotel, you can also visit the Giant\u2019s Causeway for free. <\/p>\n

Prices vary, with current entrance fee rates at \u00a313.50 for adults and \u00a36.70 for children, offering value for those interested in learning more about the geological and mythological background of the area. National Trust members can enjoy free entry and parking. Prices change at peak season.<\/p>\n

The Giant\u2019s Causeway Visitor Centre opens at 10:00 am and closes depending on the time of year, anywhere from 5 pm to 9 pm. But you can visit it alone and walk down anytime if you stay at the Causeway Hotel. From the parking lot, you will walk through a tunnel taking you to the Blue Trail which is a half-mile walk downhill. <\/p>\n

Driving and Car Park Locations<\/h2>\n
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If you are not staying at the Causeway Hotel you will need to pay for parking or you can walk. Some of the guest houses near Giant\u2019s Causeway are not too far away as well. There are some good hiking trails to the Giant\u2019s Causeway as well and if you are up for a hike, you can walk from Dunserverick Castle or Portballintrae.<\/p>\n

If you are driving, you will need to purchase a parking ticket. Using the car park closest to the visitor centre costs \u00a313 per person, adding up quickly. The cost for parking is \u00a313 per adult in the car. \u00a332.50 for a family and \u00a36.50 for children. <\/p>\n

That makes The Causeway Hotel an even more desirable option. When you stay here, parking and entrance is free.<\/p>\n

There is another car park along the Causeway Road, The Causeway Coast Car park costs \u00a310 and is an easy walk to the visitor centre.<\/p>\n

When you purchase a ticket online, it includes parking, a guided tour, and audio guides. You also have access to the Visitor Centre, the exhibition, caf\u00e9 and souvenir shop. <\/p>\n

Guided Tours<\/h2>\n
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We realize that most people will not want to drive on the other side of the road and there are plenty of guided tours from Dublin, and Belfast. Plus, if you book a tour, you won\u2019t need to worry about any of these costs as they will all be included. Here are a couple of guided tours that we recommend that also explore more of County Antrim and Northern Ireland. <\/p>\n

This full-day guided tour is highly rated and takes you along the Causeway Coastal Route to see the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Dunluce Castle, The Dark Hedges, and Giants Causeway. <\/p>\n

Giant\u2019s Causeway Walking Trails<\/h2>\n
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Blue Trail <\/strong>\u2013 This is the common trail that is along the paved road leading to Giant\u2019s Causeway from the Visitor Centre. <\/p>\n

Green Trail<\/strong> \u2013 This is a 3.2 km (2 miles) hike that takes 1.5 hours. This trail starts at the Causeway Hotel and follows the path toward path towards Runkerry Head. This trail is suitable for people with disabilities and is wheelchair friendly. It is also kid-friendly for buggies. This trail takes you out to see the Portcoon Cave, 150 yards long and 40-foot high, sea cave. <\/p>\n

Red Trail <\/strong>\u2013 The Red Trail is a moderate trail that takes about 1.5 hours. It starts at the Giant\u2019s Causeway visitor\u2019s centre and goes along the top of the cliffs. <\/p>\n

Yellow Trail <\/strong>\u2013 The Yellow Trail is a challenging hike, that begins at Runkery Head and ends at Hamilton\u2019s Seat. The trailhead is accessible near the village of Portballintrae and goes past the Causeway Hotel and Visitors Centre. You\u2019ll meet up with the Blue Trail and can go down to the Giant\u2019s Causeway or stay high to continue on the Yellow Trail. There are sheer cliffs on this path, so be careful. <\/p>\n

Where to Stay at the Giant\u2019s Causeway<\/h2>\n
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We highly recommend spending more time at the Giant\u2019s Causeway than just on a quick day trip. The reason being is that if you join a tour, you will arrive at the Giant\u2019s Causeway at midday with all the crowds. On two of our visits, we stayed at the Causeway Hotel and could walk down to see the Giant\u2019s Causeway at sunrise and sunset. During these times of the day, we had it all to ourselves. <\/p>\n

Causeway Hotel<\/h3>\n
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The Causeway Hotel is the closest hotel to the Giant\u2019s Causeway located directly at the visitor\u2019s centre. But there are plenty of BnBs around the area and other hotels in Bushmills which is just 2.5 miles away. You can then easily drive to the Giant\u2019s Causeway for sunrise or sunset. See reviews on TripAdvisor and Check prices on Booking.com<\/p>\n

The Causeway Hotel has a bar and restaurant so you don\u2019t have to leave at all and can spend maximum time at the Giant\u2019s Causeway. The rooms are pretty basic, though, and need an update. What the rooms lack in ambiance is made up for in its location. <\/p>\n

Bushmills Inn<\/h3>\n
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The Bushmills Inn is another great option located in town. We ate here and had an amazing meal. It dates back to 1600 and was a coaching inn at the time. It has been completely renovated and the rooms are now a 4-star luxury. If you want something more upscale and don\u2019t mind needing to drive to the Giant\u2019s Causeway, this is a great option. See reviews on TripAdvisor and Check Prices on Booking.com<\/p>\n

Giant\u2019s Causeway History \u2013 The Legend<\/h2>\n
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Inside the visitors center, there is a gift shop, a snack bar, and a coffee shop. There is also a film about the legend of the Giant\u2019s Causeway involving the Irish Giant Finn McCool and the Scottish Giant Benandonner.<\/p>\n

Before science, it was believed that the Irish giant Finn McCool made the Giant\u2019s Causeway to create a bridge to Scotland to challenge his rival. Legend says that rivals Fionn Mac Cumhaill (Finn McCool) of County Antrim in Ireland were constantly bickering with the Scottish Giant Benandonner. <\/p>\n

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Finn McCool and Bennadoner fighting on the Giant\u2019s Causeway<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

One day Finn McCool decided to build a bridge to cross the sea and challenge\u00a0Benandonner to a fight. It\u2019s an easy legend to believe, as each stone seems to be placed there for a purpose. Read the full legend at The Legend of the Giant\u2019s Causeway \u2013 Do You Believe?<\/p>\n

The Actual History of the Giant\u2019s Causeway<\/h2>\n
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Formed over 60 million years ago due to intense volcanic eruptions, the Causeway is famous for its 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, creating a natural phenomenon that has intrigued visitors for centuries. <\/p>\n

This blend of geological wonder and mythical tales, coupled with the site\u2019s breathtaking natural beauty, makes the Giant\u2019s Causeway a pivotal subject of study for geologists and a must-visit destination for tourists worldwide. <\/p>\n

It is Northern Ireland\u2019s only UNESCO World Heritage Site. Whether you\u2019re drawn by the allure of its ancient origins or intrigued by the enchanting stories passed down through generations, the Giant\u2019s Causeway offers a unique window into the past, making it an essential part of Northern Ireland\u2019s cultural and natural heritage.<\/p>\n

Mobility and the Giant\u2019s Causeway<\/h2>\n
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For those with mobility issues, there is a bus that you can take down and up to the Giant\u2019s Causeway from the visitor\u2019s center. They also have wheelchairs and scooters available to borrow at the Giant\u2019s Causeway visitor centre. Note that they are available on a first come first serve basis. The bus costs <\/p>\n

Things to do Near the Giant\u2019s Causeway<\/h2>\n

After the morning visit, there are plenty of things to see and do nearby. Giant\u2019s Causeway is located along the Causeway Coastal Route, and it is one of the most spectacular road trips on earth. <\/p>\n

What to See and Do<\/h2>\n

Beyond the awe-inspiring basalt columns, the Giant\u2019s Causeway area is rich in attractions worth exploring:<\/p>\n