7-Day / 6-Night Moderate

From your point of arrival, use the public transport information we provide to make the journey to Ballycastle.

This scenic hike offers dramatic coastal views, cliffside paths, and a sense of wild isolation. After a complementary morning transfer, you start with a visit to Murlough Bay, with its quiet, otherworldly beauty. From there, the trail follows along the top of the towering cliffs of Fair Head, with sweeping vistas across the sea to Scotland. The route then winds through farmland and open countryside before descending to the beach which guides you to Ballycastle where you spend the night.

In the morning, take the short ferry trip to Rathlin, Northern Ireland’s only inhabited offshore island. Steeped in history and legend, it is a windswept haven of dramatic cliffs, quiet beaches, and rich wildlife. Known for its thriving seabird colonies, especially puffins in spring and summer, the island is also a paradise for nature lovers and birdwatchers. On the island you have a choice of three routes. But we recommend a trip to the West Light Seabird Centre to see the famous puffins, seabird colony and lighthouse. Why not take a bus there and walk back? This will leave you plenty of time for a great little hike to one of the other two lighthouses in the afternoon. Overnight in Ballycastle.

You will walk for a long time before you find another cliff-top walk as breathtaking as this sensational trek along the Causeway coastline. After a short transfer to the dramatic ruins of Dunseverick Castle, cliff paths guide you to the spectacular Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO world heritage site. Take some time to explore this natural wonder, and then continue along the coast or follow a path alongside the historic narrow gauge heritage railway, connecting the Giant’s Causeway and the charming town of Bushmills. If you like, you can finish your day with a visit to the oldest whiskey distillery in the world. Overnight in Bushmills.

Shortly after leaving Portballintrae, the impressive ruins of Dunluce Castle suddenly appear and a stop for a closer inspection is well worthwhile. Follow the coastal path around the town of Portrush and then continue past beautiful links golf courses next to the sea until you reach Portstewart, where you spend the night.