4 of Northern Ireland’s Hidden Gems on the Causeway Coast

Looking to plan your next Causeway Coast adventure? We’ve got you covered. Today we’re going to be sharing a small selection of hidden gems all of which are just a stone’s throw away from Lagom. The causeway coastal route has some of the best outdoor activities Northern Ireland has to offer and we hope the following suggestions will help you to keep the adventure off the beaten track and alive.

While some of these activities can be done with local tour operators in Ballycastle and the surrounding areas, many of them can be done solo.

Want to check out other things you can do on the Causeway Coast during your stay – Check out this post

Fairhead

On the northeastern side of causeway coast road overlooking the Northern Atlantic ocean lies Fairhead which is arguably one of the best places for rock climbing in Northern Ireland.

On a clear day, the striking profile of fairhead can be seen all along the Irish North Coast and was used to shoot several Game of Thrones Episodes.

If you’re looking for just one thing to do on the causeway coast this weekend, hike the headland (there’s an easy 7.9km circular route) & check out the scenery. If you’re feeling brave take to the wall for a day of climbing (not for beginners or the faint hearted)

Rathlin Island

Home to just 150 people, Rathlin Island is located just six miles off the coast of Ballycastle and is the Northernmost point of Northern Ireland.

As the island is just 6km by 4km, it’s the perfect place for you to explore by bike. You can bring your own onto the ferry or rent directly from the Soerneog View Hostel on the island. They do book up fast so be sure to call well in advance of your trip.

No trip to Rathlin is complete without a visit to the Seabird Centre and if you visit between April and July you’ll be able to see the Puffins alongside the friendly Harbour and Grey Seals who like to hang out in Church Bay and the Rue. If you visit around May-June time you’ll get to see the Harbour Seal Pups with the Grey Seal Pups usually born in the autumn during September to November.

Catching a ferry over to Rathlin is easy and two ferries run back and forth from Ballycastle several times per day. There’s both an express, 25-minute foot-only service as well as a vehicle service, the Spirit of Rathlin which takes 35 minutes. Times vary between the summer and winter seasons. You can check out their timetable along with suggestions on what else to do during your stay on Rathlin in our how to spend a day in rathlin guide.

Torr Head Scenic Road

If you’re looking for an easygoing day of exploring teamed with breathtaking views, you can head straight out of Lagom on your bike and go for a ride along the Torr Head scenic route. While many people opt to drive this route, the roads are narrow, dangerous and can get busy in the height of summer. Plus it can be a nightmare to park near the tourist hotspots. You’ll have a far better experience exploring by bike and won’t need to worry about parking.

The route starts right here in Ballycastle and ends in Cushendun at which point you can either turn back and come back along the coastal route you came, or create a loop and head Northwest through Loughareema and Ballypatrick. Once you reach Torr Head towards the beginning of your trip, you’ll be greeted with views of the Mull of Kintyre in Scotland

The road is pretty narrow and winding but offers dramatic views of the Northern Irish Coastline and is a great way to spend an afternoon.

Kinbane Head

Just a stone’s throw from here in Ballycastle, on the way to Ballintoy lies Kinbane Head which is a perfect stop on your causeway coastal drive to go for a stroll.

You’d be forgiven for driving past it if you didn’t know it was there but it’s definitely worth the stopover. Once you park at the site, a steep stairway will take you down the cliff edge and towards the 16th century Kinbane Castle ruins, underneath which lies a sea cave. The terrain is a little rugged so wear appropriate footwear but other than that it’s fairly easy to navigate.

You can continue past the castle and go right to the end of the headland which will give you panoramic views of the coastline, Rathlin Island and even Scotland on a clear day. As you turn back towards the castle, there’s an abandoned fisherman’s cottage and a waterfall and you’ll get one last opportunity to immerse yourself in how vast the cliff formations are.