Causeway Coast Way
A dramatic coastal trail along the Antrim coast from Portstewart to Ballycastle, passing the Giant's Causeway UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Route overview
The Causeway Coast Way runs along one of Northern Ireland's most celebrated coastlines, from Portstewart to Ballycastle, passing directly through the Giant's Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its hexagonal basalt columns. The route also passes Dunluce Castle, the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge and White Park Bay, combining clifftop paths with beach sections along the way. It forms part of the wider Ulster Way network and is one of its best-maintained and most popular sections. Waymarking is clear throughout, and the route's popularity means good visitor infrastructure, though certain clifftop stretches remain exposed to Atlantic weather.
Trail facts
- Country
- Northern Ireland (UK)
- Region
- County Antrim
- Distance
- c. 53 km
- Typical duration
- 2–3 days
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Elevation gain
- c. 1,800 m cumulative
- Best season
- April–October
- Trail type
- Official coastal long-distance trail
Safety context
Clifftop sections are exposed to strong Atlantic winds; some paths run close to unfenced edges near the Causeway itself.
Underestimating wind strength on the exposed clifftop stretches near the Giant's Causeway is a common visitor issue.
Highlights
Giant's Causeway UNESCO World Heritage Site Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge Dunluce Castle ruins White Park Bay coastal scenery
Why find a buddy
The exposed clifftop sections and popular sightseeing stops are enjoyable to share and safer to navigate with a companion.
Primary source
Explore and prepare
Discover hikes by intent, read the hiking guides, review hiking safety, prepare a BuddyPack, or browse hiking plans.
Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.