A relaxed road trip through coastlines, mountains, forests and hidden stops

Northern Ireland is one of the best places in the UK to explore by campervan. The distances are short, the scenery changes quickly, and you are never too far from the coast, a mountain view, or a good coffee stop.

This guide is designed as a flexible campervan route rather than a strict itinerary. You can follow it over a long weekend or stretch it into a full week depending on your pace.

What to expect on this route

This route takes you through some of Northern Ireland’s best scenery, combining coastal drives, mountain roads, forests, beaches, market towns and landmark stops. Expect a mix of relaxed driving, scenic lay-bys, easy walks and overnight spots that work well for campervans.

The roads are mostly straightforward and campervan friendly, though some coastal and mountain sections are narrower and better taken slowly. There are plenty of places to stop for photos, coffee breaks and overnight stays along the way.

You will pass through:

• The Causeway Coast
• The Glens of Antrim
• Belfast
• The Mourne Mountains
• Fermanagh Lakelands
• Derry/Londonderry
• Forest parks and hidden beaches
• Small towns and harbour villages

Who this route suits

This route works especially well for:

• First-time campervan hirers
• Couples looking for a relaxed scenic trip
• Families wanting easy-access landmarks
• Dog owners
• Anyone wanting a balance of nature, food stops and overnight scenery

Most major stops are dog friendly and have nearby parking suitable for campervans.

At a glance

• 5–7 days
• Circular Northern Ireland route
• Approx. 450–550km
• Best April to September
• Dog friendly
• Flexible overnight stops
• Coastal & mountain driving
• Mix of wild scenery and towns

Route highlights

The stops worth slowing down for

Landmark

Belfast

Start your trip in Belfast before heading out towards the coast. Spend some time around the Cathedral Quarter, Titanic Quarter or St George’s Market before collecting supplies and hitting the road.

Campervan tip: stock up before leaving the city as rural shops can close early.

Scenic stop

The Gobbins Cliff Path

A dramatic coastal walk built directly into the cliffs with suspension bridges and sea tunnels. One of the most underrated experiences in Northern Ireland.

Booking recommended in summer.

Scenic stop

Cushendun & the Glens of Antrim

One of the most relaxed stretches of the route. Small villages, winding roads, waterfalls and coastal viewpoints all within short driving distance.

Ideal for slower travel days.

Landmark

Giant’s Causeway

Northern Ireland’s most famous natural landmark and absolutely worth seeing in person. Early mornings and late afternoons are quieter and much better for campervans.

Paid parking at the visitor centre.

Scenic stop

Dunluce Castle

Perched dramatically on the cliffs above the Atlantic. A quick stop but one of the most photogenic locations on the route.

Best visited around sunset.

Food & drink

Portrush & Portstewart

Good coffee, beach walks and plenty of food options. Great stop for a slower afternoon or overnight base.

Popular in summer.

Scenic stop

Mussenden Temple

A cliff-edge viewpoint overlooking Downhill Strand. Easy parking nearby and one of the best sunset locations on the north coast.

Overnight stop

Benone Beach

One of the best beachside overnight areas in Northern Ireland. Wide open views, long beach walks and a great place to slow down for the evening.

Dog friendly.

Scenic stop

Mourne Mountains

A completely different side of Northern Ireland. Forests, mountain roads and reservoirs with loads of scenic pull-ins.

Perfect for hiking or simply relaxing beside the van with a view.

Scenic stop

Silent Valley Reservoir

Quiet roads, mountain scenery and peaceful picnic areas. One of the best places to escape crowds.

Overnight stop

Newcastle

Great overnight base with restaurants, sea views and direct access to the Mournes.

Popular with campervans.

Scenic stop

Fermanagh Lakelands

Slow-paced roads winding around lakes, forests and marinas. Ideal for a relaxed final section of the trip.

Perfect if you prefer quiet campsites and nature.

Suggested itinerary

A relaxed 6-day Northern Ireland loop

Day 1 — Belfast to Cushendall

Approx. 55 miles

Collect your campervan and follow the coast north from Belfast. Stop at Carrickfergus, Glenarm and The Gobbins before reaching the Glens of Antrim.

Overnight: Cushendall or nearby coastal campsite.

Day 2 — Cushendall to Ballycastle

Approx. 40 miles

Slow scenic driving day through Cushendun, Torr Head and Ballycastle.

Optional stops:

• Fair Head
• Murlough Bay
• Cushendun Caves

Overnight: Ballycastle campsite or coastal stop nearby.

Day 3 — Ballycastle to Portrush

Approx. 25 miles

Visit Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Giant’s Causeway and Dunluce Castle before arriving in Portrush.

Ideal shorter driving day.

Overnight: Portrush or Portstewart.

Day 4 — Portrush to Derry/Londonderry

Approx. 40 miles

Follow the coast west past Mussenden Temple and Benone Beach before arriving in Derry/Londonderry.

Walk the city walls in the evening.

Overnight: Campsite or aire outside the city.

Day 5 — Derry/Londonderry to Newcastle

Approx. 100 miles

Longer driving day crossing back through the countryside towards the Mournes.

Relaxed evening in Newcastle.

Day 6 — Mournes & Silent Valley

Flexible distance

Spend the day exploring the Mourne Mountains, Silent Valley and nearby forest parks before heading back towards Belfast.

Optional final overnight before returning the van.

Campervan tips for Northern Ireland

• Fuel stations become less frequent in rural areas, especially on Sundays.
• Some scenic roads are narrow but manageable in standard campervans.
• Book campsites ahead during July and August.
• Weather changes quickly — always keep waterproofs handy.
• Most beaches and coastal walks are dog friendly.
• Mobile signal can drop in mountain and coastal areas.

Best time to go

April to September

Best weather, longer evenings and most campsites fully open.

October

Quieter roads and beautiful autumn scenery, especially in the Mournes and Fermanagh.

Winter

Still possible, but shorter daylight hours and stronger coastal weather make it better suited to experienced campers.

Ready to explore Northern Ireland?

There is no better way to see Northern Ireland than by campervan. The distances are short, the scenery is constantly changing, and some of the best moments happen between the major stops.

Take your time, pull into the viewpoints, stay for the sunsets and enjoy the freedom of the road.