Is the Antrim Coast Road more spectacular than the Grand Canyon?

The Antrim Coast Road in Northern Ireland is widely considered one of the most magnificent drives in Europe. Often compared to California's famous Big Sur, this scenic route offers coastal vistas that, according to some surveys, rival world-famous landmarks like the Grand Canyon or Victoria Falls.

NI's own Big Sur trumps landmarks

The road, officially known as the A2, follows the northeastern coastline of County Antrim. It is a masterpiece of 19th-century engineering, hugging the base of towering limestone and basalt cliffs while overhanging the North Channel. The route is famous for its "Nine Glens of Antrim," each offering a unique landscape of lush green valleys that meet the rugged sea.

Road facts: Antrim Coast Road (A2)
Location County Antrim, Northern Ireland
Length ~40 km (25 miles) main scenic section
Established 1832–1842
Key Stops Larne, Cushendall, Cushendun, Ballycastle

Why is the Antrim Coast Road world-famous?

Built in the 1830s by civil engineer William Bald, the Antrim Coast Road was a revolutionary project. Before its construction, the Glens of Antrim were only accessible by sea or over steep mountain tracks. Bald decided to blast the road out of the foot of the cliffs, creating a 25-mile stretch that remains one of the world's great road trips. In a survey of 5,000 Britons, the route was ranked 5th among the world's most spectacular views, beating iconic sites like the ruins of Machu Picchu and the Grand Canyon.

What is the best route for the Antrim Coast Road?

The most iconic part of the drive runs from the Port of Larne towards the Glens of Antrim. This single-carriageway road links picturesque villages such as Glenarm, Cushendall, and Cushendun. Along the way, travelers can experience dramatic changes in scenery—from the wild Atlantic waves to the serene forest parks of the glens. It is part of the Antrim Coast Road network, which also provides access to the Giant's Causeway further north. Whether you are visiting for the engineering history or the sheer beauty of the Irish coastline, the A2 is a must-drive destination.

Top 10 most spectacular views in the world

According to the Jacob's Creek survey, which highlighted the Antrim Coast Road as a top destination, here are the world's best views to enjoy:

  1. Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House (Australia)
  2. Mauritius sunset
  3. Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown (New Zealand)
  4. Victoria Falls (Zambia/Zimbabwe)
  5. Antrim Coast Road (Northern Ireland)
  6. Bora Bora (French Polynesia)
  7. Grand Canyon (Arizona, USA)
  8. The ruins of Machu Picchu (Peru)
  9. Buachaille Etive Mor, Glencoe (Scotland)
  10. Angel Falls (Venezuela)

Source: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/northern_ireland/6141692.stm

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