Entering the New Year with a fresh mindset and a clear head is what everyone strives for, and one of the best ways to achieve that is to take yourself and your family off for an invigorating winter walk.
Whether you’re a take-it-easy ambler or a hardcore trekker, Northern Ireland is a place made for walkers. With stunning views, rugged cliffs and wide-open spaces, there’s always something to inspire you around the corner, across that river or up the next hill.
It’s time to lace up your boots as Discover Northern Ireland share a list of the most serene spots to uncover this New Year.
High up in the Mourne Mountains
The Mourne Mountains are Northern Ireland’s most dramatic mountain range. Naturally, the view from the top is spectacular. However, wander among the foothills and you’ll discover even more to love. Follow gentle trails through stunning forests or pause to drink in the views.
Enthusiastic walkers will find buckets to explore along the tracks that criss-cross the mountains. The highest peak Slieve Donard stands at 853m – with the remaining peaks, which form this famous ring of mountains, all rising above 600m. The impressive Central Mournes have views across the Irish Sea, while the wider region with its farmland and stunning coastline is rich in wildlife.
Along the Causeway Coast
As you explore the breath-taking Causeway Coastal Route and the Glens of Antrim, you won’t be surprised to learn that this stretch of Northern Ireland includes not one but three Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
It’s also where you’ll discover the nine Glens of Antrim. Glenariff is a special favourite – famous for its woodland waterfalls and sheer plunging gorge. This is an area rich in history and legends. A wander along linked waymarked routes takes you across flat coastal paths and is by far the best way to dig deep into its nooks and crannies.
In and around Belfast
Walkers in Belfast get the best of both worlds – a little bit city and a little bit country.
Colourful parks and peaceful towpaths show you a side of the city you can only fully experience on foot. While the impressive Belfast Hills and 4,200 acres of the 11-mile Lagan Valley Regional Park delight with river paths and panoramic views.
West of Belfast, Divis is the highest point in the Belfast Hills at 478 metres. Follow the Ridge Trail, a 4.2 mile circular route with spectacular views and no major uphill climbs. Or choose one of the other three great walks through this National Trust-owned site. All deliver amazing views across the Mourne Mountains to Scotland. And you’ll also see the city sights from a whole new angle. Look out for Titanic Belfast, Belfast City Hall, Stormont Parliament Buildings and, of course, Samson and Goliath – Harland and Wolff’s famous yellow cranes.
There are routes made for fitter walkers and many more (equally interesting and picturesque) perfect for those with limited mobility or for small children. So, there truly is something to inspire everyone whatever your level.
Exploring the Sperrin Mountains
Stretching from Strabane in County Tyrone to the shores of Lough Neagh, the Sperrins are one of Northern Ireland’s largest upland areas. Surprising, then, that they’re also one of its best kept secrets. Still, more for you to explore. Wild, untouched and exceptionally beautiful, it is also an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
If you’re a serious walker, you’ll love the adventure of discovering moorland summits using routes such as Robbers Table and the Craignamaddy Circuit. If you’re out and about with the family, take a wander through An Creagan or Gortin Glen Forest Park.
On the banks of Strangford Lough
Mostly flat coastal walks along this awe-inspiring coastline are just some of the many attractions you’ll enjoy if your journey takes you this way. Northern Ireland’s only Marine Nature Reserve is another – and a definite pitstop for those who love their bird life or seal colonies
Strangford, too, is home to some fine country estates and parklands. Trails around here are especially good for families, with well-signposted and scenic routes across good walking terrain.
Venture into the Fermanagh Lakelands
Here, interlacing paths and tracks lead you on a never-ending adventure. Ideal for keen walkers and families alike, there are spectacular views, fascinating landscapes and a wildlife culture with a history all its own.
The Pollnagolllum Cave Walk, Belmore Forest is part of the Marble Arch Caves Global Geopark and is located in the Boho-Belmore Mountain area, right in the heart of Fermanagh’s cave country.
Beneath your feet lies an extensive maze of caves which attract cavers and potholers from far and wide to west Fermanagh. One of the most intriguing mammals, the Irish Hare, can be found in the Belmore uplands, so you never know what you might find.
There’s no better way to get up close and personal with the unexpected sights and experiences this stunning landscape has to offer than on foot. And, if you’re ever stuck for inspiration, there’ll be local guides with centuries of knowledge on hand to help.
Enjoy the views at Armagh
Slieve Gullion is Ireland’s Mountain of Mystery. The Forest Park offers walking trails, a scenic drive, an Adventure Playpark, Giant’s Lair children’s story trail and Courtyard with coffee shop. Rising some 576m above the surrounding countryside, the broad slopes of Slieve Gullion dominate the landscape of south Armagh. The mountain itself lies at the centre of a pronounced ring of hills – the Ring of Gullion.
Whether you choose to experience it at a hi-octane pace, embark on a peaceful nature retreat, summit Slieve Gullion – Armaghs’s highest peak – or follow tailor made itineraries as a guide, the Ring of Gullion region offers a host of activities and attractions for families, couples, groups of friends and visitors of any age, who want to get away from it all, explore unspoilt landscapes and enjoy a real sense of well-being.
Discover Northern Ireland has a range of experiences that will allow you to truly Embrace our Giant Spirit and make memories. Remember to Embrace a Giant Spirit safely and take care of yourself, local business and the environment around you by signing the Visitor Charter Pledge on Discover Northern Ireland’s website.
For more inspiration visit: www.discovernorthernireland.com
