Planning a trip along the Causeway Coast this summer? If so, you might want to schedule in a stop at this quiet port town brimming with Irish charm and coastal views.
The Causeway Coastal Route is fast becoming one of Ireland’s most beloved attractions.
From Game of Thrones fans keen to visit iconic filming locations to golf lovers booking their tickets for the Open Golf Tournament, tourism in the region has thrived in recent years.
There are plenty of iconic stops along the way. Still, the scenic coastal stretch boasts several hidden gems just waiting to be discovered. And there’s one quiet port town by the Giant’s Causeway that might just be Northern Ireland’s best-kept secret.
Authentic Irish coastal charm – a must-stop along the coastal route
Stretching from Belfast to Derry, the 185km (115-mile) Causeway Coastal Route is brimming with ancient castles, towering cliffs, and charming seaside towns.
Thousands of visitors travel to the region every year, keen to explore the clifftop Dunluce Castle, the mythical Giant’s Causeway, and the historic streets of Derry.
However, the quiet port town of Portbradden, just a 15-minute drive from the Giant’s Causeway, remains pretty much untouched by tourists to the region.
Visitors have described the town as ‘unspoilt and beautiful’, highlighting the authentic Irish charm of this salt-stained harbour village.
Unspoilt and beautiful – Northern Ireland’s best-kept secret
Located at the far left of White Park Bay, one of the most beautiful beaches in Ireland, Portbradden is quaint and unassuming, echoing the area’s past as an important salmon fishing harbour.
Grab a coffee at Bothy before making your way down the winding Portbradden Road to uncover the magic that awaits. Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by a rugged rocky cove and a small golden sand beach.
You’ll rarely meet other tourists around here, adding to its untouched scenic beauty and charming allure. There’s a little holiday home, Portbradden Cottage, for you to enjoy a cosy coastal escape. Beside it, you’ll find Ireland’s smallest church.
Ideal for those seeking to get a real feel for Irish coastal life, away from the hustle and bustle of tourist destinations, Portbradden might just be Northern Ireland’s best-kept secret.
