Ireland’s most scenic road?
If you’re yearning for golden beaches, Northern Ireland may have the answer. Stan continues our VWD countdown by riding the Antrim coast.
Wondering about the when, the where and the why for next year’s VWD in Belfast? Stan’s gives another top tip in his ongoing series.
Many riders believe that beautiful roads can only be found on the continent, but the Antrim Coast Road has to be one of the finest in the world. It’s full of surprises and it’s right on our doorstep.
Although the most efficient way to get to Bushmills and the Giant’s Causeway is the M2, it’s the A2 which brings the greatest pleasure. The tourist trail runs between Londonderry and Belfast, but I’ll concentrate on the 60 mile stretch between Portstewart and Larne.
With a mixture of cliffs, bays and enough curves to keep even the most adventurous scooterist happy, it’s a route to be savoured rather than rushed. Although everything’s within the capabilities of an average rider, it’s at this point that it’s worth giving a word of warning. These are country roads and their condition varies considerably. That sweeping curve may have a surface so weathered that it’s smooth as glass. It’s also possible, particularly after heavy rain, that stones and mud washed down from the hills may have created a gritty deposit that’s rim deep. However treat the road with respect and the scenery will more than reward your efforts, the entire route is nothing less than stunning.
Beaches, Bars and Bike Racing
Around 10 miles west of Bushmills is Portstewart. A vibrant seaside resort, it boasts a beach that wouldn’t be out of place in the Caribbean and is popular with surfers. Travelling westwards the next port of call is Portrush where fans of Irish theme pubs may want to call at The Harbour Bar to experience the real thing. Although most VWD visitors will probably start the journey south near Bushmills, the roads around these two seaside towns are worth a visit for no other reason than they’re part of the Ulster Grand Prix route.
A worthwhile diversion as there’s nothing there
West of Bushmills, the road becomes more interesting as it passes through the Glens of Antrim. There’s no shortage of coves, harbours and tourist attractions here. From fishing villages to rope bridges over the sea, it would take a guide book to cover them all. Picking highlights from this stretch of coast is almost impossible and the prettiest locations can be tourist traps. For my local guide Nigel, the sign that indicated any place was worth visiting read ‘Unsuitable for Coaches’, his own favourite being Murlough Bay. As Nigel put it, “just when you feel totally lost, we’re almost there”.
At Ballyvoy turn left onto Tor Road and then onto Murlough Road. Look out for sheep, particularly those with lambs, as 150kg of angry mutton can really spoil a ride out! The bay has no facilities so bring a picnic, enjoy a swim and bask in the silence. It’s the perfect way to spend a summer afternoon. Like much of Antrim, Murlough Bay’s also a Game of Thrones location, but more of that later. Thanks to Nigel for his help planning this route.