Explore the Wonders of the Giant’s Causeway on a Tour from Belfast
The Giant’s Causeway, one of Northern Ireland’s most iconic natural wonders, should be at the top of any traveler’s list. Located on the north coast, this stunning site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its unique geological formations. If you’re staying in Belfast, a day trip to the Giant’s Causeway is an unmissable experience, offering a mix of natural beauty, history, and legend.
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What is the Giant’s Causeway?
Located in Northern Ireland, the Giant’s Causeway is a natural formation of approximately 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, the result of an ancient volcanic eruption that took place around 60 million years ago. The towers, in varying heights, have created a surreal landscape that has captured the attention of both locals and visitors for centuries. These hexagonal shapes are truly a phenomenon of nature, making this location one of the most unique geological sites in the world.
The Legend behind the Giant’s Causeway
The Giant’s Causeway is popular not only for its spectacular geology but also through myth. It is said that giant Finn McCool created the Causeway as a bridge to Scotland in order to fight another giant, Benandonner. Some theories claim that the causeway was built so Finn could cross the sea and face Benandonner in battle as giants. Whether you believe the myth or not, it really does add an air of mystique to the place.
The Best Way to Get There from Belfast
Belfast is approximately 60 miles (96 km) away from the Giant’s Causeway, making it a perfect day trip from the city. You can get to the site by car, bus, or on a guided tour. Here are a few options for getting there:
- Car Rental: It takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes to drive from Belfast to the Giant’s Causeway. The route is an easy one: the most scenic views along the Antrim Coast Road, a resplendent stretch of coastline.
- Public Transport: You can get a bus from Belfast to Colerain and then take a local bus, which will take you directly to the Causeway. The trip should take somewhere between 1.5 to 2 hours depending on the connections.
- Guided Tours: There are plenty of companies around the local area offering day trips from Belfast to the Giant’s Causeway. The tours usually take 6 to 8 hours and include other attractions like Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge or the Dark Hedges, among others.
What to Expect on the Giant’s Causeway Tour
Stunning views of the coast and the famous basalt columns of the Giant’s Causeway Tour Belfast will welcome you when you get there. You can explore the site by accessing it through any of the following ways:
- Visitor Centre: Begin at the contemporary Visitor Centre, which houses both factual and fascinating information about the Causeway’s history, geology, and folklore. There is a mix of interactive exhibits and a gift shop. Within the Visitor Centre is a cafe where you can enjoy local refreshment before heading out to explore.
- Walk to the Causeway: The Visitor Centre offers a short, scenic walk down to the Causeway. The walk takes about 10-15 minutes along the way with a number of viewpoints. The path is well-maintained but can be some hill walking back up.
- Climbing the Columns:
- Causeway Coast Path: The Causeway Coast Path is another perfect combination of adventure and exploration for someone with extra time, interested in hiking. It connects the Giant’s Causeway to other parts of Northern Ireland’s stunningly beautiful coastline, offering gorgeous cliff-top and beach views, as well as historic sites.
Many visitors prefer to admire the columns from the surrounding areas, and you can climb the basalt formations. This is a great way to fully appreciate the scale and beauty of the site, but take comfortable shoes with you and exercise caution over slippery areas, especially if it’s been raining.
Nearby Attractions to Add to Your Itinerary
While the Giant’s Causeway is the main attraction, there are a few sites nearby that make for an excellent supplement to your plans:
- Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge: A short drive from the Giant’s Causeway, this world-renowned rope bridge links the mainland to a small island and gives amazing views of the coastline.
- The Dark Hedges: This historical avenue of beech has become famous following its show in Game of Thrones. It is about 20 minutes from the Causeway and presents a fantastic photo opportunity.
- Dunluce Castle: A ruined castle dating back to the medieval times, dramatically situated on top of a cliff edge, wonderful views of the coastline, and so much history within Ireland.
Why You Should Take a Guided Tour
Visiting Giant’s Causeway on one’s own is possible, but guided tours offer a much richer experience. Guides can be very enthusiastic about their region and relate interesting stories or insights about the history, legends, or geology of the place. Most guided tours also transport you around the causeway; so much of the effort is removed. This is especially useful if you’re not familiar with the area or really don’t want to bother driving or parking and then navigate to get there.
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A trip from Belfast to the Giant’s Causeway is an adventure one will never forget, as it provides natural wonder,
rich history, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re into geology, mythology, or just appreciating the beauty of Northern Ireland’s coast line, the Causeway won’t let you down. With comfortable transport available and an adequate number of guided tours, Giant’s Causeway is definitely one of the attractions no visitor should miss on a visit to Belfast.
