Northern Ireland has it all – from busy towns to peaceful country-sides, green forests and cliffs and bays, beautiful beaches and castles et al.

Driving is the best way to explore Northern Ireland. We reached Larne by a ferry from Scotland with our rental car, though the most convenient way is to drive northwards from Belfast along the coast and then take the western route. As we landed in Larne, we had to first drive southwards and start on the Causeway Coastal Route which is well-marked with maps and signboards. You could do it in anything from a rushed 2 days to a relaxed 6 days depending on whether you want to spend a little more time looking around in the places of your interest. Or even driving a bit inwards away from the coastal route.

The main highlights of the East Coast drive that we really enjoyed and you do not want to miss are:

Carrickfergus Castle – a Norman castle located on the northern shore of Belfast, a real fortress with a wealth of history behind it. You could easily spend about an hour or more here. Go up to the roof level, take in the views across the bay and back over Carrickfergus town. You could also wander around Carrickfergus itself – there’s an excellent free museum about the history of the city, nice churches – and you can also see a few remaining parts of the old city wall. There are some good cafes and restaurants where you could stop for lunch.

Gleno waterfall – a charming place and a hidden gem. Most people do not know its existence. It is not mentioned in the causeway route maps. It is a leisurely drive from the main road in Larne and the waterfall is easily accessible without any strenuous hikes. The walk up the narrow path through the glen is superb – although you will definitely need good shoes and moderate fitness. Do stop here to stroll over to the waterfall – a short level path – and take some good pictures. A tranquil relaxing place.

Islandmagee – another place that is mostly missed by tourists. It is a beautiful drive, looping off the Causeway Coastal route at White head to Brown’s bay and then Portmuch’s beautiful harbour and beach – lovely walks here with views of Muck island.

Carnfunnock Country Park – An excellent place for a family outing, packed full of exciting and unusual attractions, in an amazing setting overlooking the Antrim Coast. Highlights include an outdoor adventure playground, nine-hole golf course, walking trails, walled garden and a visitor centre-cum-café. The walled garden has interesting sundials and wooden sculptures. 

Torr Head – One of the most challenging sections is to drive on a largely single-track road to Torr Head. A bit of a detour from the main route, but it takes you closer to the coast itself and is well worth taking provided you do not have a big car!

We very much enjoyed this route – the views were beautiful, and the short hike up to the top of Torr Head was a nice opportunity to stretch our legs and get a look at the incredible coastline here. If you don’t mind driving on winding narrow roads, this detour is worth adding to your to-do list.

The second part of this drive is Northern Ireland – North Coast. Click here to view.

Northern Ireland, UK
Carrickfergus, Northern Ireland, UK

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