Brit motorists flocking to hidden road famed for its eerie beauty after appearance in Game of Thrones
HOT SPOT Brit motorists flocking to hidden road famed for its eerie beauty after appearance in Game of Thrones
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A HAUNTINGLY beautiful stretch of road, tucked away "off the beaten track" is quickly becoming a must-see for adventurous travellers seeking something truly unique.
This extraordinary destination has been likened to a scene from a fantasy film - yet it is entirely real.
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The Dark Hedges in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, is an eerily stunning avenue of trees famous for its twisted branches
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The location is perhaps best known for its appearance in the Game of Thrones series
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It's becoming a hot spot for tourists in the area
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It's known to be hard to find, situated near the small village of Armoy
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The Dark Hedges, located in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, is an eerily stunning avenue of trees famous for its twisted branches and mysterious shadows, as well as its appearance in Game of Thrones as "The Kingsroad."
Planted in the 1700s by the Stuart family, the trees were meant to impress visitors to Gracehill House, and they have made the road become one of Ireland's most photographed sights.
It's off the beaten path, literally
City Tours Belfast
Indeed, according to City Tours Belfast, interest in the location has soared in recent years - especially among families, couples and, of course, fans of all things fantasy.
For travellers on the hunt for beauty and mystery, the road's gnarled trunks and intertwined limbs form a natural cathedral that changes with every season.
Notoriously hard to find, the Dark Hedges is set along Bregagh Road, near the small village of Armoy, but isn't exactly signposted.
Indeed, it's roughly 50 miles, or 80km, from Belfast in a relatively remote area that offers little in the way of phone signal.
'It's off the beaten path, literally,' says a spokesperson for City Tours Belfast.
'But that makes the moment you turn the corner and see the trees in person even more rewarding. It's like stepping into another world.'
This, according to City Tours Belfast, is all part of the charm
INSIDER TIPS
If you're longing to see the Dark Hedges for yourself, it's recommended to visit the spot either early in the morning or late in the evening, as these times not only offer the quietest atmosphere - but also provide the most enchanting light for photographs.
I found the best staycation in Ireland with private pod, our own hot tub and alpacas and deer on site
Additionally, proper footwear is essential here as the road is rural, dotted with uneven surfaces.
Sturdy shoes are a must, while even during the summer a light jacket is advised - since the breeze under the trees can pick up quickly.
Naturally, visitors are encouraged not to drive down Bregagh Road in an attempt to preserve the natural look and feel of the area.
And while it may be tempting, driving through the avenue can damage the trees' roots.
Instead, a nearby car park can be used, allowing for a short walk to the site.
Drivers are also encouraged to pair their visit to the Dark Hedges with a trip to the iconic Giant's Causeway, a World Heritage site that's just a short drive away.
A spokesperson from City Tours Belfast added: 'Many travellers think they need to spend days planning their own road trip to find these places, but the truth is you can see the very best of Northern Ireland in just one day without the stress.
'Our guided tours mean you won't get lost, miss key sights, or waste time hunting for parking.
'Plus, you'll hear the hidden stories behind these iconic places, from local myths to Hollywood secrets.'
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