Carnkirk Cottage is situated in the heart of the Causeway Coast area, only two miles from both the Giant's Causeway and the Old Bushmills Distillery.
In order of appearance:
1. Giant's Causeway
A geological wonder, with a wealth of history and legend. Home to 40,000 basalt stone columns, the causeway is one of the top attractions in Northern Ireland. (2 miles, 4 minute drive).
2. Dark Hedges
These iconic trees were planted in the 18th century as a beautiful avenue leading to a Georgian mansion. The beech trees have been used as a film location for the epic series Game of Thrones. (11 miles, 20 minute drive).
3. Dunluce Castle
The ruins of 15th century Dunluce Castle sit on top of a high cliff, offering spectacular views of the Causeway Coast and even the northern lights at the right time of day and year! (4 miles, 10 minutes drive).
4. Old Bushmills Distillery
World famous Bushmills Irish Whiskey is made at Ireland’s oldest licenced distillery. Guided tours are available and of course whiskey tasting too! (2.5 miles, 6 minutes drive).
5. Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
First erected in 1755 by salmon fishermen, this rope bridge connects Carrick-a-Rede Island to the cliffs of the mainland. (7 miles, 15 minutes drive).
6. Ballintoy Harbour
This small fishing harbour and village will give any visitor a true sense of rural Irish life. With some charming cafes and landscapes made famous as Game of Thrones film locations, Ballintoy is an ideal refreshment stop for those touring the North Coast.
7. Whiterocks Beach
Situated along the Causeway Coastal Route, the limestone cliffs and towering sand dunes stretch from Dunluce Castle to Portrush. Year round the beach
attracts walkers, and water sports enthusiasts (especially surfers and
kayakers) and is patrolled by local life guards in the summer months.
Just above the beach, on the main road is a large car
park at Magheracross. From here you can take in incredible views of Donegal,
Portrush and the headlands towards the Giant’s Causeway. (5.5 miles, 11 minutes drive).
8. Mussenden Temple
Perched on a 120
ft cliff top, Mussenden Temple offers incredible views over Downhill Strand
towards County Donegal, Portstewart and Portrush. Built in the 18
th
Century on the estate of Bishop of Derry, the temple was a summer library inspired
by the Temple of Vesta in Italy. (17 miles, 32 minutes drive).
9. Portstewart Strand
The golden sands of the Portstewart Strand lie between the town
of Portstewart and the mouth of the River Bann. Year round, this Blue Flag
award beach attracts holiday makers with cars permitted to drive onto the
beach. The beach offers numerous activities such as surfing, swimming, horse
riding and scenic walks (13 miles, 25 minutes drive).
