The Majestic Elephant Rock: Nature's Sculpture by the Sea
Discover the breathtaking Elephant Rock, a unique natural formation along Northern Ireland's stunning Causeway Coastal Route, perfect for tranquil getaways and photography.
Nestled along the stunning Causeway Coastal Route, The Elephant Rock offers visitors a breathtaking view of nature's artistry. This unique rock formation, resembling an elephant, is a must-see for tourists seeking picturesque landscapes and tranquil surroundings. Just a short walk from Ballintoy Harbour, this scenic spot showcases the raw beauty of the Northern Irish coastline, making it perfect for photography, relaxation, and exploration. Be sure to experience the enchanting atmosphere of this hidden gem.
A brief summary to The Elephant Rock
- Ballycastle, Ballintoy, BT54 6NA, GB
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during sunrise or sunset for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
- Wear comfortable shoes for the short walk from Ballintoy Harbour.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning coastal views and the rock formation.
- Take time to explore nearby Ballintoy for local shops and eateries.
- Check the weather beforehand, as conditions can change rapidly along the coast.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from the Giant's Causeway visitor center, start by heading east on the A2 road towards Ballycastle. Continue on the A2 for approximately 7 miles (11 km). Look for signs for Ballintoy, and turn right onto the B90 road. Follow the B90 until you reach Ballintoy. Once in Ballintoy, park at the Ballintoy Harbour car park. From there, The Elephant Rock is a short 5-minute walk away. Just head towards the coast and you will see the rock formation along the shoreline.
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Public Transportation
To reach The Elephant Rock using public transport from Giant's Causeway, take the number 172 bus from the Giant's Causeway stop towards Ballycastle. The journey will take approximately 30 minutes. Get off at the Ballintoy stop. From the bus stop, walk towards Ballintoy Harbour, which is about a 10-minute walk. Once you reach the harbour, The Elephant Rock is a short 5-minute walk along the coast.
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Walking
If you are already in the vicinity of Giant's Causeway and prefer walking, it is a scenic route but can take about 1.5 to 2 hours. Start by walking along the coastal path from the Giant's Causeway towards Ballintoy. Follow the signs for the Causeway Coastal Route. Enjoy the views as you walk along the cliffs and coastline. When you reach Ballintoy Harbour, The Elephant Rock will be visible along the shore. Ensure to wear appropriate footwear as the path can be uneven.
Discover more about The Elephant Rock
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Whitepark Bay viewpoint
1.5 km
Discover the stunning coastal views and serene landscapes at Whitepark Bay Viewpoint in Ballycastle, Northern Ireland – a perfect spot for nature lovers.
Giants Causeway Carpark
8.3 km
Explore the legendary Giants Causeway, a breathtaking natural wonder with unique basalt columns and stunning coastal views.
National Trust - Giant's Causeway Visitor Centre
8.7 km
Experience the stunning beauty and rich history at the Giant's Causeway Visitor Centre, a gateway to Northern Ireland's iconic natural wonder.
Bay of the Cow
8.8 km
Experience the stunning natural beauty and rich folklore of the Bay of the Cow, a hidden gem near the Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland.
Giant's Causeway & Bushmills Railway
8.8 km
Explore the breathtaking Giant's Causeway and Bushmills Railway, a captivating blend of natural beauty and historical charm in Northern Ireland.
Portcoon Jetty
9.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Portcoon Jetty, a scenic point in Northern Ireland, perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
The Dark Hedges
11.9 km
Explore the Dark Hedges, an iconic beech tree avenue in Northern Ireland, offering breathtaking views and a touch of cinematic magic.
Dunluce Castle
13.1 km
Explore the breathtaking ruins of Dunluce Castle, a medieval marvel perched on the rugged Antrim coastline, rich in history and stunning views.
National Trust Barmouth Bird Hide
25.5 km
Immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of nature at Barmouth Bird Hide, a premier birdwatching and nature reserve in Northern Ireland.
National Trust - Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne
28.6 km
Discover Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne: a breathtaking blend of history, nature, and stunning coastal views in Northern Ireland.
Merrick Stone
32.9 km
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American Monument
38.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and poignant history of the American Monument at Mull of Oa, a must-visit destination on the Isle of Islay.
Whitebay
42.0 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Whitebay, a tranquil tourist attraction in Ballymena perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Moville Shore Path Walk, Inishowen
42.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Moville Shore Path Walk, a scenic coastal trail in County Donegal, perfect for leisurely strolls and nature appreciation.
Carraig Fhada Lighthouse
43.4 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
The Skull Rock
0.2 km
Explore the captivating Skull Rock, a stunning natural formation in Ballycastle, Northern Ireland, surrounded by breathtaking coastal scenery.
Ballintoy Harbour
0.8 km
Explore the enchanting Ballintoy Harbour, a must-see destination on the Northern Ireland coast, known for its stunning views and rich maritime history.
Ballintoy point
0.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Ballintoy Point, a scenic coastal spot in Northern Ireland perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
Black and White Bay
1.0 km
Explore the breathtaking contrasts of Black and White Bay, a serene coastal gem in Ballycastle, Northern Ireland, ideal for relaxation and natural beauty.
The Element Rock
1.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of The Element Rock, a stunning natural attraction along Northern Ireland's picturesque coastline, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Ballintoy boat tours
1.5 km
Experience the stunning beauty of Northern Ireland's coastline with unforgettable boat tours in Ballintoy, showcasing rugged cliffs and vibrant marine life.
Causeway Coastal Route
1.5 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage along the iconic Causeway Coastal Route in Northern Ireland.
Whitepark Bay Beach
1.8 km
Experience the natural beauty of Whitepark Bay Beach, a serene public beach in Northern Ireland perfect for relaxation and exploration amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Dunseverick coastal walk
2.1 km
Discover the majestic scenery and rich history of the Dunseverick Coastal Walk, a top hiking destination on Northern Ireland's stunning coastline.
National Trust - White Park Bay
2.2 km
Experience the unspoiled beauty of White Park Bay, a serene coastal haven with stunning beaches, rich wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes in Northern Ireland.
Portbradden Harbour
2.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Portbradden Harbour on Northern Ireland's stunning Antrim coast, a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers.
Portbraddan Cottage
2.4 km
Discover the charm and beauty of Portbraddan Cottage, a picturesque tourist attraction in the heart of Northern Ireland's coastal landscape.
Beach and caves
3.0 km
Discover the stunning beaches and captivating caves of Ballycastle, a top hiking destination in Northern Ireland offering breathtaking views and natural beauty.
Rope bridge quarry (GOT)
3.1 km
Experience breathtaking views and thrilling adventures at the iconic Rope Bridge Quarry in Ballycastle, a must-visit tourist attraction.
National Trust - Carrick-a-Rede
3.1 km
Experience the thrill of crossing Carrick-a-Rede Bridge, a stunning coastal attraction in Northern Ireland with breathtaking views and rich history.
Essential places to dine
Roark's Kitchen
0.8 km
Discover Roark's Kitchen in Ballintoy: A cozy cafe offering homemade treats and stunning views along Northern Ireland’s breathtaking coast.
The Fullerton Arms
1.6 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at The Fullerton Arms in Ballintoy - where comfort meets breathtaking coastal views.
Carrick-A-Rede Bar and Restaurant
1.6 km
Experience the best of Northern Irish cuisine at Carrick-A-Rede Bar and Restaurant—where delicious food meets stunning coastal views.
Bothy White Park Bay
2.7 km
Experience delightful breakfasts and exquisite coffee at Bothy White Park Bay, nestled on Northern Ireland's scenic coastline.
Causeway Tavern B & B
5.7 km
Discover comfort and charm at Causeway Tavern B & B in Dunseverick - your perfect base for exploring Northern Ireland's natural wonders.
Hungry Giant Causeway
8.6 km
Discover delicious local cuisine at Hungry Giant Causeway while enjoying breathtaking views near Northern Ireland's iconic natural wonder.
Finn McCool's Giants Causeway Hostel
8.6 km
Discover the welcoming embrace of Finn McCool's Hostel near Giants Causeway - your gateway to adventure in Northern Ireland.
The Nook
8.6 km
Discover The Nook in Bushmills - where fresh seafood meets stunning coastal views for an unforgettable dining experience.
National trust cafe
8.7 km
Experience local flavors at the National Trust Cafe while enjoying breathtaking views near Giant's Causeway.
The Causeway Hotel
8.7 km
Discover unparalleled comfort at The Causeway Hotel, your gateway to explore Northern Ireland's breathtaking landscapes near the iconic Giant's Causeway.
The Cellar
9.4 km
Experience the best of local seafood at The Cellar in Ballycastle - where fresh meets flavor in a charming seaside setting.
Market Square
9.9 km
Experience authentic Irish cuisine at Market Square in Bushmills - where delicious food meets vibrant culture.
The Bushmills Inn Restaurant and Bar
9.9 km
Discover culinary delights at The Bushmills Inn Restaurant and Bar - where traditional Irish hospitality meets modern gastropub dining.
The Bushmills Inn Hotel
9.9 km
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Bushmills Townhouse
9.9 km
Discover exceptional comfort and fine dining at Bushmills Townhouse in Northern Ireland's charming village.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
North Coast Coffee
1.5 km
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The wee shop
1.6 km
Experience local charm at The Wee Shop in Ballycastle, your go-to convenience store for essentials and unique souvenirs in Northern Ireland.
The Woodpile Provisions
4.9 km
Explore unique handmade home goods at The Woodpile Provisions in Ballycastle, where local craftsmanship meets cozy charm for the perfect souvenir.
Express Snack Hub & Hot Drinks
8.7 km
Experience the warm hospitality of Bushmills at Express Snack Hub & Hot Drinks, where every sip and bite reflects the charm of Northern Ireland.
Someplace in Time
9.0 km
Explore the enchanting furniture store Someplace in Time in Ballycastle, where unique vintage and contemporary pieces await every discerning shopper.
The Original Factory Shop (Ballycastle)
9.2 km
Experience the best in shopping at The Original Factory Shop in Ballycastle, where quality meets affordability for every traveler.
Cobwebs
9.4 km
Explore Cobwebs, Ballycastle's antique store, where history and charm come together in a treasure hunt for unique collectibles and vintage finds.
Home Made Beautiful
9.5 km
Explore the charm of Ballycastle at Home Made Beautiful, your go-to gift shop for unique handmade treasures and local artisan crafts.
That Witch
9.6 km
Discover unique, handcrafted jewelry at That Witch in Ballycastle, where every piece reflects the beauty of the region.
Old Bushmills Distillery Gift Shop
9.8 km
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CentraBushmills
9.9 km
Discover the convenience of CentraBushmills, your go-to supermarket for fresh produce and local delicacies in the heart of Bushmills, Northern Ireland.
Co-op Food - Bushmills
9.9 km
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Lilly's
9.9 km
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Therapy:Sole
9.9 km
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Therapy Style Studio
9.9 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
McBrides Bar
5.7 km
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The Coast Inn
9.2 km
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ANZAC BAR, RESTAURANT & OFF SALES
9.3 km
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Glenshesk Bar
9.4 km
Experience the warmth of Irish hospitality at Glenshesk Bar, Ballycastle's favorite spot for local brews and live music.
House of McDonnell
9.4 km
Discover the heart of Ballycastle at the House of McDonnell, where traditional Irish cuisine meets vibrant local culture in a cozy pub setting.
The Boyd Arms
9.4 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at The Boyd Arms in Ballycastle, where great food and local brews await in a cozy pub atmosphere.
Nellie Rua's, Ballycastle
9.4 km
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O'Connor's Bar
9.4 km
Discover the heart of Ballycastle at O'Connor's Bar, where traditional Irish hospitality meets a vibrant local atmosphere.
The Diamond Bar
9.5 km
Experience authentic Irish pub culture at The Diamond Bar in Ballycastle, offering a warm atmosphere and a wide selection of local beverages.
Anglers Arms
9.7 km
Experience the warm Irish hospitality at Anglers Arms Pub in Ballycastle, offering delicious food and a vibrant atmosphere to enjoy with friends.
Harbour Bar
9.8 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and local charm at Harbour Bar, Ballycastle's premier destination for drinks and entertainment.
The Scotch House Bar
9.9 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of The Scotch House Bar in Bushmills, where traditional Irish music meets delicious pub fare and a warm welcome.
Chonga Castlecatt
10.7 km
Experience the warmth of Irish hospitality at Chonga Castlecatt, a charming bar in Bushmills, where local culture and relaxation meet.
The Armada Inn
12.7 km
Discover the charm of The Armada Inn, a cozy pub in Armoy offering authentic Irish cuisine and a welcoming atmosphere for all travelers.
Hunters Bar
13.2 km
Experience the charm of Ballyvoy at Hunters Bar, where local flavors meet warm hospitality in a cozy atmosphere.
