Giants Causeway & Antrim Coast Private Tour

Experience the Best of Northern Ireland on a Private Giants Causeway & Antrim Coast Tour

If you’re heading to Belfast and craving a personalized exploration of Northern Ireland’s coast, this Giants Causeway & Antrim Coast Private Tour offers a blend of stunning scenery, historic sites, and expert guides. For around $964 per group (up to 7 people), you get a flexible 7.5-hour journey with the comfort of private transportation, Wi-Fi, and the freedom to shape your itinerary.

What we love most? First, the ability to stop where you want, whether for a quick photo or a longer look at a castle. Second, the intimate setting means you’re not rushing through crowds — this is about quality, not quantity. On the flip side, keep in mind that entrance tickets to the Giants Causeway are not included, so you’ll want to budget for that. This tour suits travelers who value a tailored experience, enjoy scenic drives, and appreciate knowledgeable guides who can share local insights.

Key Points

Private and customizable: You can shape your day, stopping at sites that interest you most.
Expert guides: Guides like Jeff and Stuart get high praise for their knowledge and personable approach.
Scenic highlights: From the Dark Hedges to Dunluce Castle, the highlights are picture-perfect and historically fascinating.
Comfort and convenience: Travel in an air-conditioned vehicle with Wi-Fi, start from Belfast, and enjoy hassle-free pickups and drop-offs.
Cost considerations: Tickets for the key attractions aren’t included, so budget accordingly if you want to go inside.
Authentic local experience: Small-group or private touring offers a more genuine and relaxed way to experience Northern Ireland.

A Deep Dive Into the Itinerary

The Dark Hedges: A Fairy-Tale Tunnel

Your day begins with a visit to the famous Dark Hedges, a 300-year-old avenue of intertwining beech trees that gained worldwide fame as the Kings Road in Game of Thrones. The photos simply don’t do justice to the atmosphere—standing under the arching canopy feels like stepping into a storybook. This stop is free and lasts about 30 minutes, allowing plenty of time to stroll, take photos, and soak in the enchanting scenery.

Many travelers, like Charles, appreciated the guide’s storytelling, noting that Brian “did a lovely job of showing and telling me about this part of Northern Ireland.” We found the Dark Hedges to be a perfect intro—dramatic, mysterious, and a must-see for fans of the TV series or lovers of natural beauty.

Carrick A Rede Rope Bridge: Thrills with a View

Next, you’ll stop at Carrick A Rede, where you’ll enjoy a viewpoint overlooking the famous rope bridge. While the tour does not include crossing the bridge (which involves an extra fee), you can opt to do so if you’re feeling adventurous. Even from the viewing platform, the views are spectacular, offering a sweeping perspective over the coast.

This stop is brief, about 20 minutes, but packed with photo opportunities. It’s a chance to experience an exhilarating bit of engineering history while taking in the rugged coastline.

Ballintoy Harbour: A Coastal Gem

The charming Ballintoy Harbour, used as the Iron Islands in Game of Thrones, is a favorite among visitors for its rugged beauty. The small fishing port offers stunning vistas, rocky outcroppings, and a peaceful atmosphere. It’s perfect for a quick walk around or snapping memorable photos.

Reviewers like Diane highlighted the appeal, describing it as a “beautiful little harbour with amazing views,” perfect for those who love dramatic coastlines.

Dunseverick Castle: Ancient Ruins

As one of Ireland’s oldest castle ruins, Dunseverick dates back to around 500 BC. Though only a brief stop of about 5 minutes, it offers a glimpse into Ireland’s long history. The crumbling stones perched on the coastline evoke a sense of timelessness, making it an evocative spot for history buffs or anyone who enjoys ruins with a view.

The Giants Causeway: Ireland’s Number One Attraction

The main event is, of course, the Giants Causeway—a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its hexagonal basalt columns formed by ancient volcanic activity. You’ll have around two hours here, enough time to walk among the stones, learn about the legend of the giant Finn MacCool, and take in what many consider one of Ireland’s most captivating natural wonders.

Note that tickets are not included, but many visitors find the entrance fee reasonable considering what they see. The site is accessible, with paths suitable for most visitors, and plenty of spots for photos and contemplative walks.

Bushmills Distillery and Dunluce Castle: Bonus Highlights

The tour includes a quick stop at Bushmills Distillery, the world’s oldest licensed distillery. Although you can’t do a full tour with the time allocated, it’s a fascinating peek into Ireland’s whiskey-making heritage, with the option to shop for souvenirs.

Then, a visit to Dunluce Castle offers a dramatic photo opportunity—perched on the edge of a cliff with the Atlantic crashing below. Just 10 minutes here, but it’s enough to appreciate its medieval architecture and rugged setting.

Transportation & Comfort

Travel is in a private, air-conditioned vehicle equipped with Wi-Fi, making the journey comfortable and informative. Small groups or private bookings mean fewer distractions and more personalized commentary. The driver/guide, praised for their knowledge and personable style, can make the day engaging and tailored to your interests.

The tour begins at Donegall Square North in Belfast, with convenient pickup options, and ends back at the same location. This seamless start and finish streamline your planning and maximize your sightseeing time.

The Value of a Private, Customizable Tour

Given the $964.79 price for up to 7 people, this tour offers considerable value if you’re traveling as a family or small group. You’re not just paying for transportation but for a flexible experience where you can choose stops, spend more or less time at each, and benefit from expert local guidance.

Many reviewers, like Timothy, noted that their driver, Joe, was “professional, humorous and informative,” which added a lot to their day. The ability to adjust the schedule, include extra sites, or skip less-interesting spots makes this more engaging than a typical coach tour.

Considerations

While the tour covers many sights, it doesn’t include inside tickets for attractions like the Giants Causeway or Bushmills. This means you’ll need to plan extra time and budget for entrance fees if you want to go inside. Also, the tour is about 7.5 hours, so it suits those prepared for a full day of sightseeing.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This private tour is ideal for travelers who:
– Desire a customized experience tailored to their interests.
– Appreciate the comfort of private transport and the flexibility to stop spontaneously.
– Want to learn from knowledgeable guides who can share insights beyond textbook facts.
– Are traveling in a small group or with family and want a more intimate outing.
– Value quality over quantity, with enough time to savor each site without feeling rushed.

It’s perfect for those who love scenic drives, historic ruins, and iconic attractions like the Giants Causeway.

The Sum Up

For anyone seeking a flexible, comfortable way to explore Northern Ireland’s stunning coast, this Giants Causeway & Antrim Coast Private Tour delivers on all fronts. You get the chance to see the legendary basalt columns, walk under the Dark Hedges, visit ancient castles, and even peek into Ireland’s oldest distillery—all in a day tailored to your pace and interests.

The guides receive glowing reviews for their knowledge and personable approach, making the experience even more memorable. While the price might seem high for some, the personalized service, expert insights, and freedom to craft your route make it a worthwhile investment, especially for those eager to avoid the crowded coach experience.

Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply after breathtaking scenery, this tour offers a genuine taste of Northern Ireland’s rugged beauty and intriguing past—delivered in style and comfort.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the tour accommodates a range of interests and mobility levels.

What is included in the price?
Transportation in a private, air-conditioned vehicle with Wi-Fi and bottled water is included. The tour is private for your group only.

Are tickets to attractions like the Giants Causeway included?
No, these are not included. You’ll need to purchase tickets separately if you wish to explore inside the site.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely. This is a private, customizable tour, so you can shape the stops according to your preferences.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Donegall Square North in Belfast, with pickup and drop-off included.

What if I want to cross the Carrick A Rede Rope Bridge?
You can do so for an extra cost, as the tour currently includes only the viewing point.

How long is the tour?
Approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes.

Is lunch included?
No, you can stop for lunch during the tour or bring a sandwich to eat on the go but at your own expense.

This private tour offers a relaxed, flexible way to soak in Northern Ireland’s most iconic sights—perfect if you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy a personal touch. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate a guide’s insights, stunning scenery, and the freedom to explore at your own pace.