Coast to Coast: The Scenic Route

Day 1: Causeway Coastal Route

Babatunde and Finlay’s escapades kick off on the elemental Causeway Coastal Route, the stunning road trip that links Belfast and Derry~Londonderry along the north coast. There are BIG historic sites, charming little seaside villages and much more to see on the way, so trip planner at the ready, bucket list essentials are coming thick and fast! Our comedic pair are soon passing Carrickfergus Castle and colourful Whitehead before the start of their trip proper at Blackhead Lighthouse. Babatunde shares his love for the island of Ireland against the dramatic backdrop of the picturesque beacon: “I was absolutely thrilled to return to Ireland for this partnership! Such a beautiful country and such kind, joyous people.” Why not book a stay at Blackhead to take in the panoramic clifftop views yourself?

Next, the guys travel north on the Antrim coast, accompanied by views inland of the scenic Glens of Antrim, while Scotland is visible offshore on a fine day. This is also Game of Thrones® territory, with filming locations such as the Cushendun Caves, Ballintoy Harbour and more close by. Throneys, plan in your detour now. But today, Babatunde and Finlay’s next stop is an authentic experience at Dunfin Farm. A sheepdog challenge ensues, with the winner getting to have a go in farmer Frank’s tractor! Don’t forget to take a selfie or three with the adorable lambs when you come here.

Next up is challenge number two for the lads on the Ballycastle Traditional Music Trail, which sees them competing in the ancient art of brush dancing. Music lovers take note, this experience will be a trip highlight. It’s a lively experience packed with folk songs and local tales which go back centuries, and there’s a lot on the line too, as the winner chooses their accommodation for the night – nestled beside a cosy log fire or snug under a blanket of stars. This section of the Causeway Coast features some big hitters, so make sure to walk on the legendary stones at the Giant’s Causeway, snap puffins on Rathlin Island, and take in the history of Dunluce Castle, which is perched on the cliff edge, high above the roaring waves. Babatunde and Finlay made sure to strike a pose at this show-stopping landmark.

Overnight, Babatunde opts for the pastoral wonders of the Peatlands Shepherd’s Hut, a unique four-star getaway hidden away on several acres of garden, meadow and woodlands. Not to be outdone, Finlay stays in a luxury bubble dome at Cromore Retreat in County Londonderry. Both glamping experiences mix the island of Ireland’s trademark hospitality with its world-famous natural beauty, delivering stays that are unlike anywhere else. Quirky gems like these book up quickly, so don’t delay. Sleep well guys, you’ve got a big day two coming up...

Day 2: Wild Atlantic Way

It’s time for our comedians to leave Northern Ireland and the Causeway Coastal Route behind – next stop: the Wild Atlantic Way! This exhilarating touring route snakes from Malin Head up north all the way down to Kinsale in County Cork on the south coast. But Babatunde and Finlay’s journey focuses on the northern sections of the Wild Atlantic Way, starting in County Donegal – home to iconic spots like Fanad Head Lighthouse and the Slieve League Cliffs. Their Donegal challenge sees them embracing the great outdoors on the towering Tor na Dumhcha sea stack in Gweedore. Iain Miller, a rock climbing expert from Unique Ascent, proves a helpful guide as the guys conquer the elements on this adrenaline-fuelled experience. Full on activities like this are not for the faint of heart, so do your research now and come ready to tackle Donegal’s GIANT landscapes.

Gweedore in Donegal is known for its epic scenery, but it’s also famed as one of Ireland’s Irish-speaking areas. Language lovers can swot up on a few words of Irish Gaelic to impress friendly locals in these parts. Quick tip: “Sláinte” (pronounced slawn-cha) means “health” and is a common drinking toast. Now you just need a creamy pint of Guinness or a tasty tipple of Irish whiskey in hand to try it out. If you’ve got more time in this region, visit Glenveagh National Park for wildlife-rich nature trails, or catch a 20-minute ferry to Arranmore, a ruggedly gorgeous island full of laid-back seaside charms.

As for Babatunde and Finlay, they’re moving south to County Sligo, a land known as Yeats Country for so inspiring the poetry of the great WB Yeats. Our hosts quickly get a taste of the area’s poetic beauty for themselves, enjoying views of Benbulben, one of Ireland’s most iconic mountains. The jagged ridges and flat top of the peak were formed by glaciers during the last Ice Age, and it’s often referred to as “Ireland’s Table Mountain”. Majestic landscapes abound here. Try the Gleniff Horseshoe for a walking or cycling loop encircled by imposing mountains, or make a splash at the surfing hotspot of Mullaghmore, a craggy peninsula offering great views of Classiebawn Castle (which starred in Netflix hit, The Crown). Sligo is a remote and wild county, so plan your route through its must-see spots well in advance.

A lot of land covered, Babatunde and Finlay round off their visit to Ireland with a relaxing soak at Voya Seaweed Baths, the perfect way to unwind after a jam-packed few days. After, they stroll along Strandhill Beach with an ice cream, reflecting on their amazing couple of days on the island of Ireland. “One day I was herding lambs, the next I was floating in a seaweed bath like an ancient Celtic king. There were so many laughs, new experiences and vistas that opened like paintings. I had a genuinely wicked time,” says Finlay.

Ireland’s coast is calling

Two comedians. Two days of coastal adventure. Two iconic routes, one unforgettable trip. Coast to Coast: The Scenic Route shows that doubling up means TWICE the fun on the island of Ireland! Why choose between the epic Causeway Coastal Route and the sublime Wild Atlantic Way when you can do both? Plan ahead now, and you’ll be following in Babatunde and Finlay’s footprints along these sandy shores in no time.

To help you get started, we’ve put together a bucket list of more unmissable things to see and do along the two routes. The craic has just begun...