Need ideas for County Antrim area.
 

I have been to Ireland numerous times but have mostly stayed with family and not seen the sights. I will be travelling with a first timer in the beginning of December. I will have a few days to play with after staying with family in Co. Cavan (actually right by Enniskillen) I was thinking of driving up to see giants causeway but needed some suggestions for other things in the area. I am mainly interested in castles or other cool stuff. I will probably devote 2 days to that area before going on to dublin.Any ideas or suggestions? also smaller hotels in area Thanks a bunch!

The Glenariff Forest Park outside Glenariff (or Waterfoot) is NOT to be missed! Fairies live there! BUT don't try to stay in town without a car in Glenariff, Cushendall just up the coast is wonderful. The Meadows B&B owned by Anne Carry (sp?) was great! <BR> <BR>Ballycastle on the coast has a lovely coast and boats to Raffin island, nice people on the street, and good shops. <BR> <BR>At the Giant's Causeway, we thought the coastal town would be best (Portballentrae) WRONG! Lovely Coast, no town, no stores, no nothing! Bushmills is the place to stay. With a car Portballentrae is good. We were traveling by bus so it was difficult.

Take the 12-mile walk along the coast from the rope-bridge to the Giant's causeway. End at the Bushmill distillary for a hot toddy. Fabulous.

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You could drive the whole Antrim Coast--it makes a great day. Whichever way you start, if you're into castles, stop in the Carrickfergus Castle, which is north of Belfast. It's not a big castle, but the exhibits are good and interactive, and it sits right on the coast. <BR> <BR>Take the Bushmill's tour (free samples at the end!).