Bucket list experience:
With its roots in both Irish mythology and ancient geology, the Giant’s Causeway is an astonishing rock formation that’s become an icon of Northern Irish tourism.
Tumbling towards the sea on the country’s northernmost section of coast, this collection of around 40,000 naturally hexagonal basalt columns is constantly battered by the Atlantic, and at its most atmospheric when framed by glowering skies.
Theories differ on how the neatly-shaped columns and stones came to look this way – some believe they were placed by the giant Finn McCool, on his way to battle in Scotland; others concede the formation was more likely due to volcanic activity (though not when they’re within earshot of the local storytellers).
Either way, a blustery stroll among these impressive hexagons is a must-do while in Northern Ireland.
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Destination Guide >If coming from Belfast, allow a full day to experience the Giant’s Causeway. If you’re driving yourself, it will take around an hour and a half, but there are plenty of organised tours if you want to avoid driving the country roads – make sure to book one that includes entry to the site itself.
Be cautious on stormy days and listen to the advice of the guides who oversee visitors – waves can crash unexpectedly and the rocks are slippery. Wrap up warm, even on summer days.
The Causeway can be accessed all year round, but obviously being outside your experience will be heavily dependent on good weather.
If you’re staying locally or comfortable travelling at night, the Causeway is better seen in the late afternoon, before the sun starts to set.
Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity
Belfast
£30 | Rating 4.79 / 5 [1654 ratings]
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Belfast
£32 | Rating 4.79 / 5 [224 ratings]
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Belfast
£32 | Rating 4.73 / 5 [246 ratings]
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Belfast
£35 | Rating 4.78 / 5 [838 ratings]
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Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first
Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom (UK)[80.2 miles]
History buffs will adore this Titanic Quarter hotel, set within the building where the infamous ship was designed.
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Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom (UK)[80.4 miles]
A nod to traditional luxury, this lavish city-centre hotel is one of Belfast’s favourite hangouts.
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Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom (UK)[80.5 miles]
Sultry, chic and quietly opulent, this boutique hotel is the perfect base for a romantic getaway.
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Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom (UK)[80.5 miles]
An artsy, lively hotel in the heart of the city, where vibrant style meets excellent value.
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Destination guides including or relevant to this experience
Northern Ireland, United Kingdom (UK)
Northern Ireland’s capital makes for a surprisingly arty city break, with convivial and cosy pubs, elegant architecture and cutting-edge cuisine.
Our writer’s recommendations of other bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first
Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom (UK)
A fascinating and insightful political tour of the city, led by people who lived through The Troubles – and driving black cabs.
Best for ages: 13+ | £65 | 2 hours
Bushmills, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom (UK)[0 miles]
Northern Ireland’s most famous natural landscape, this UNESCO World Heritage site is shrouded in legend and folklore.
Best for ages: 4+ | Free
Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom (UK)[79.1 miles]
Belfast’s imposing former prison offers a haunting peek into the city’s tumultuous history, from famous inmates to infamous riots.
Best for ages: 13+ | £12
Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom (UK)[80.3 miles]
Discover Belfast’s vibrant and fascinating street art, and the stories behind them, on tours led by local artists.
Best for ages: 8+ | £15 | 1 hour
Other worthwhile experiences near this experience if you have time or interest..
Portrush, Northern Ireland, Ireland[8.5 miles]
Routed between the natural dunes and grassy hummocks of the North Antrim coast this is one of Irish golf’s greatest challenges, and its most famous holes are part of golfing lore. There’s real history too; first laid out in the 1880s.
Best for ages: 13+ | £240
Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom (UK)[75.8 miles]
Built in 1860 and one of the city’s most famous landmarks. If you need a break from the city, go for the city views, landscaped gardens and some local history at the visitor centre.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom (UK)[80.1 miles]
This Romanesque cathedral is one of the city’s finest architectural feats – take a tour to admire the stained glass, and the 40-foot glass spire, named the ‘Spire of Hope’.
Best for ages: 18+ | £5
Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom (UK)[80.7 miles]
Take a free tour of Belfast’s baroque City Hall, dating back to 1906, with impressive interiors to match the elegant, Edwardian frontage.
Best for ages: 18+ | Free
Round-ups that include this experience
Multiple countries
Former travel editor of BBC Wildlife Magazine James Fair round-ups the earth’s greatest natural wonders, which will literally take your breath away.
