Private Tour – Irish Walled Garden, Nature & Giants Causeway

If you’re looking to explore Northern Ireland beyond Belfast without the hassle of navigation or crowded spots, this private tour offers a personalized, scenic, and well-rounded experience. It combines iconic sights with lesser-known gems, all guided by a knowledgeable local who makes sure you get the most out of your day.

What we love about this trip is the relaxed yet comprehensive pace – you get to enjoy each location without feeling rushed. The private nature of the tour means customized attention, and the stunning views along the scenic drive are perfect for photos. Plus, the expert guide—Adrian—has a knack for sharing Irish stories and insider tips that enrich the experience.

One possible downside is that the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users, due to some walking involved. However, for travelers seeking authentic sights, scenic drives, and a flexible itinerary, this offers fantastic value. It’s ideal for small groups, couples, or solo travelers who want a deeper, more personal connection to the Irish landscape.

This experience made our article of 13 Best Tours & Experiences In Bushmills.

Key Points

• Customizable, private experience with flexible start times and personal attention.
• Scenic drive along Torr Head Road offers breathtaking views of Scotland and the North Channel.
• Visit to Glenarm Castle’s award-winning walled garden combines history with Irish horticulture.
• Glenariff Forest Park’s waterfalls provide a serene natural backdrop and excellent photo opportunities.
• Full-day itinerary packed with iconic sights, lush scenery, and expert commentary.
• Comfortable transportation and all entrance fees included, making it a hassle-free day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

This tour clocks in at about 7 hours, starting from Belfast and returning there in the evening. It’s designed for those who want to soak up Northern Ireland’s highlights without the stress of planning each stop themselves.

Pickup and Transportation

You’ll be picked up at your residence in Belfast, which saves you from navigating unfamiliar roads or searching for parking. The vehicle is private, ensuring a comfortable ride. The tour is limited to just four participants, which keeps the experience intimate and allows your guide to tailor stops to your interests.

Glenarm Castle’s Walled Garden

Your day begins at Glenarm Castle’s garden, an award-winning site with a history spanning a thousand years. The garden is beautifully positioned, overlooking the sea with a river flowing from the mountains into the ocean beside the forest. Its design reflects centuries of modifications, making it a living piece of Irish history.

Visitors love the chance to walk through Irish flora, see the carefully cultivated fruit and vegetables year-round, and appreciate the craftsmanship that has kept it thriving for so long. As one reviewer put it: “Beautiful garden walk, scenic stops by a river in the forest and a valley out to the sea.” It’s a treat for garden lovers and those interested in Irish horticultural traditions.

Glenariff Forest Park

Next, your guide takes you into Glenariff Forest Park, often called the “Queen of the Irish Forests.” This lush area is filled with waterfalls, tranquil walking trails, and scenic viewpoints. Expect to see a display of Irish wildlife at the visitor center, which adds an educational touch.

The waterfalls here are especially striking, offering peaceful spots for photos and a chance to appreciate Ireland’s natural beauty away from bustling tourist spots. As one reviewer mentioned, the views over the valley and the sea are spectacular, especially on clear days.

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Torr Head Road Drive

One of the tour’s highlights is the drive along Torr Head Road, a winding route through charming villages and rugged hills. This stretch offers sweeping views of the Irish coastline and, on a clear day, a stunning sight of Scotland across the North Channel.

Travelers have noted the scenic nature of this drive, with the narrow roads giving an authentic feel of Irish country life. The views from the high points are so captivating that people often stop for photos or just to take in the landscape. You get a real sense of the rugged beauty that makes Ireland’s coastline so special.

The Giant’s Causeway

The grand finale is, of course, the Giant’s Causeway—Ireland’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site. With over 40,000 hexagonal basalt stones, it’s a surreal landscape and Ireland’s top tourist attraction.

Your guide will take you along the cliff edges to avoid the crowds and give you the best angles for photos. The stones’ natural formation is awe-inspiring, and the setting right by the sea makes it even more dramatic. One review highlights how the guide’s local knowledge helped them avoid the crowds, making the experience more enjoyable.

What to Expect on the Day

The tour starts with your pickup in Belfast, and from there, it’s a day full of scenic highlights and interesting stops. The schedule is flexible enough to allow plenty of time at each location, but not so long that you feel tired.

At Glenarm Castle, you’ll enjoy a peaceful walk through the garden, with opportunities to learn about Irish flora and horticultural history. It’s especially rewarding for those interested in gardening or history.

At Glenariff Forest Park, expect a peaceful walk, with waterfalls and wildlife displays adding to the natural charm. It’s a perfect spot for nature lovers who want to see less-visited but stunning locations.

The Torr Head Road drive offers a chance to breathe in fresh sea air and marvel at Ireland’s rugged coastline, with views extending all the way to Scotland. The route is narrow and winding, so comfortable shoes and a camera are essentials.

Finally, the Giant’s Causeway makes for an unforgettable ending, especially if you’re lucky enough to catch good weather. The guide’s tips for avoiding crowds and finding the best photo spots make a big difference, as confirmed by visitors who appreciated the personalized approach.

Practical Details and Value

Transport and guides: The private vehicle ensures comfort and flexibility. The small group size (up to 4 people) makes for a personalized experience, and the live guide adds expert commentary tailored to your interests.

Pricing: While the exact cost isn’t specified, the inclusion of entrance fees, parking, and pickup all contribute to convenience and value. The tour’s length and personalized approach suggest it’s a worthwhile investment for those wanting a full, carefully curated day.

Timing: Check availability for start times, which likely vary seasonally. The 7-hour length is ideal for fitting in the major sights without feeling rushed.

Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible but not suitable for those with mobility impairments, mainly due to some walking involved at the sites.

Preparation: Bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a camera, snacks, and water to enjoy the day comfortably.

Authentic Feedback from Past Travelers

Multiple reviews highlight the guides’ local knowledge and friendly demeanor. For example, one guest called Adrian a “seasoned tour guide who made sure we were comfortable and could take amazing photos,” emphasizing the personalized service.

Another reviewer appreciated how Adrian’s familiarity with the sites helped them avoid crowds and find the best photo spots, making the visit more memorable. The highlight for many is the combination of stunning scenery with informative guides, offering both visual delight and cultural insight.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want an intimate, flexible, and scenic day exploring some of Northern Ireland’s most famous and beautiful spots. It’s well-suited for those who appreciate history, nature, and photography, and prefer avoiding large tourist groups.

Families with older children, couples, or solo travelers who want a personalized touch will find this tour especially valuable. Active travelers should note that some walking is involved, and it’s not suited for those with mobility restrictions.

For those who want a seamless day with all logistics handled and the chance to enjoy Ireland’s landscape with an expert guide, this tour delivers on all fronts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s best for older children who can handle walking and enjoy scenic outings, as some sites involve walking and uneven terrain.

Can I choose my start time?
Check availability for start times, as they may vary depending on the season.

What’s included in the price?
Parking fees, admission tickets to Glenarm Castle, Glenariff Forest Park, and the Giant’s Causeway, plus pickup and drop-off are included.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, giving ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Is this tour accessible for wheelchair users?
It is wheelchair accessible but not suitable for people with mobility impairments due to walking involved at some sites.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a camera, snacks, and water are recommended for a comfortable day.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in your travel plans.

Final Thoughts

This private tour offers a fantastic way to see the highlights of Northern Ireland in a personalized, relaxed setting. The combination of historic gardens, stunning waterfalls, scenic drives, and the iconic Giants Causeway ensures a well-rounded experience for nature lovers, history buffs, and photography enthusiasts alike.

The guided aspect enriches each stop with stories and local knowledge, making it more than just a sightseeing trip. It’s ideal for those seeking a day that balances natural beauty with cultural insights, all delivered in a comfortable, small-group environment.

While it may not be suited for travelers with mobility issues, for most visitors, this carefully curated day promises memorable views, engaging stories, and a genuine taste of Ireland’s rugged charm. If you’re after an authentic, all-encompassing exploration of Ireland’s north coast, this private tour stands out as an excellent choice.

You can check availability for your dates here: