Riding the Antrim Coast Road (A2) in Northern Ireland takes you on an adventure through an ancient part of the world. The scenery varies from gentle rolling green hills to sheer rock faces. One constant companion is the imposing, stark and beautiful sea. The road itself winds gently around the coastline, hugging to the twists and turns. While the common route is around 40km in length, this is easily doubled, taking riders further up the coast to the Giant’s Causeway. This smooth ride starts at the black arch near the town of Larne.
Planning your ride on the Antrim Coast Road The road surface is of excellent quality for the majority of it’s length. The occasional pothole can be found, mostly in and around villages along the route. Though narrow in parts, the road is mostly split into two lanes, with some narrower single track sections further north.
The road is popular with tourists who tackle it throughout the year, though summer is by far the busiest period. Avoid weekends and public holidays as the road is also popular with the locals, especially bikers. For the best chance of a clear run aim for a midweek ride. The driving style is generally fairly good, though there are always those that will push the limits. Beware and keep a constant check around.
Fuel is readily available around the area and there are even small filling stations in some of the villages along the route.
Accommodation and food Along the Antrim Coast Road there are many options for places to stay, including B&Bs, hotels and campsites. These vary in price, but the quality is generally high. Prepare for a homely Irish welcome and a fantastic full Irish breakfast. Many places offer views out to the sea. Either end of the route is also good for accommodation. Larne has many options for a rather small town and there are many choices at the Giant’s Causeway. The city of Belfast lies just over 30km away from the start of the route and makes a great place to stay for those looking for a city break.
Food can be found easily all along the route, with more or less every village along the way offering something. There are several pubs offering typical pub grub as well as seafood bistros. Check out the tiny Mary McBride’s pub in Cushendun, for an authentic Irish experience. Bar meals and high quality seafood are served, alongside some of the finest Guinness you’ll taste outside of Dublin.
Weather considerations Being Ireland, rain is common for much of the year, although it is rarely so bad that one cannot ride on. As long as riders are aware that there is a high chance of rain and dress accordingly, the ride should be fine. Don’t despair, during summer months many days offer clear, warm riding conditions. The Antrim Coast Road can be ridden all year round.
Sights Ireland is a fantastically old and mythical country and this route offers up many great places to visit. Obviously the Giant’s Causeway will be high on most people’s lists and rightly so. This natural phenomenon is a sight to behold. The coast offers up several coves and small beaches. The caves of Cushendun are worth a peek if you’re a fan of the Game of Thrones series. Ancient castles dot the coast, mostly sadly reduced to ruins. They are maintained however and some offer tours. Dunluce castle dramatically stands out against the sea.
