There are loads of great hiking trails in Northern Ireland to choose from, and taking on these walking routes will give you the chance to see some of the country’s most beautiful scenery. Whether you fancy a short trek or a more challenging adventure, there’s a hiking trail in Northern Ireland to suit you.
1. Central Mourne Mountains hike
Located around 90 minutes from Larne port by car, the Mourne Mountains offer visitors some great hiking trails, and are easily accessible once you’ve disembarked your ferry to Northern Ireland. The Central Mourne Mountains hike is 9.9 miles in length along unsurfaced mountain paths, and takes in sights such as the Blue Lough, Annalong valley, and Ben Cram Reservoir, making it a popular choice for those seeking a bit of a challenge. Hikers hoping for a shorter route will be pleased to find a number of options suitable for their needs too, making this stunning area accessible to all. The nearby Carricklittle car park is conveniently placed for hikers, and dogs are welcome to walk with you providing that they’re on a lead.
Within the Mourne Mountains is the highest peak in Northern Ireland, Slieve Donard, and you can choose to hike here too. This is quite a difficult trek, with the 5.6 mile distance often taking between 5 and 6 miles to complete, but you’ll be rewarded with views as far as Scotland and Wales when you reach the summit.
2. Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge walk
Just over an hour from Larne is the thrilling Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge which can be explored in a 3.2 round mile hike. Stretching from the mainland to the tiny island of Carrick-a-Rede, this National Trust owned rope bridge towers almost 30m above the sea below, which makes it the perfect hike for those looking for an adrenaline rush. This rope bridge was originally created by fishermen 250 years ago, and is certainly a landmark worth discovering during your time in Northern Ireland. To cross the bridge you’ll need to book a timed ticket. You can do this upon arrival but you might prefer to do this beforehand to avoid delays when you get there.
The island of Carrick-a-Rede itself is home to just one building – a fisherman’s cottage. However, there are caves and beaches to explore, and you might even be lucky enough to spot whales and porpoises. This hiking route is a great choice if you’re travelling as a family, as it’s a manageable distance for little legs, and children are sure to love the excitement of walking across the rope bridge.
3. Causeway Coast Way hike
One of the most popular hiking trails in Northern Ireland, the Causeway Coast Way offers visitors spectacular views along its 32 mile stretch. This hike takes 2 – 3 days to complete, depending on how much time you’d like to spend admiring the scenery and taking photos. The route goes from Portstewart to Ballycastle (or vice versa), and takes in a number of famous Northern Irish landmarks, including the previously mentioned Carrick-a-Rede, and the fabulous Giant’s Causeway. A popular attraction for tourists visiting Northern Ireland, the Giant’s Causeway is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and its basalt column formation is certainly an eye-catching one.
The Causeway Coast Way hike is certainly one for those who love being immersed in nature, as it combines cliffs and beaches with quaint fishing villages, such as Ballintoy. Game of Thrones fans will love reaching this village’s picturesque harbour thanks to the part it played in the hit TV show, and it’s the perfect place to stop off for a bite to eat too. There are lots of B&Bs and guesthouses along this hiking trail, so you’ll easily find lovely places to stay during your walk, making this a hiking holiday to remember.
4. Rathlin Island hikes
Home to less than 150 inhabitants, Rathlin Island is the perfect place to head for peaceful, tranquil hiking trails in Northern Island. Just 6 miles long and a mile wide, Rathlin Island offers amazing coastal views no matter where you stand, and can be reached by boat from the town of Ballycastle. With 6 different walking routes to choose from, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to discovering what this tiny island has to offer, and might even be lucky enough to see dolphins, seals, or puffins during your hike. In addition to its stunning scenery, Rathlin Island boasts a fascinating history that is definitely worth exploring during your time there too.
Despite its size, Rathlin Island has a pub and restaurant which are both perfect for hikers in need of some refreshments. You may also be surprised to know that the island boasts 3 lighthouses, including Ireland’s only ‘upside down’ lighthouse. The West Light is unusual due to the fact that its light is located at the base of the lighthouse rather than at the top, and the reason behind this is that is can shine through the low dense fog that sometimes surrounds the island.
5. Cave Hill Country Park hike
Starting out at Belfast Castle, the 4.5 miles circular route around Cave Hill Country Park offers hikers impressive views and a challenging trek. With paths that are steep and uneven at times, this hiking trail will take you through woodland and under the park’s largest cave, giving you plenty of opportunities to enjoy the surrounding views. Cave Hill was in fact the inspiration behind Gulliver’s Travels, and you’ll understand why as you become part of the stunning scenery.
Before you head back down the hill, you’ll find McArt’s Fort at its summit. This ring fort is protected by a precipice and a ditch, and it was thought that the caves beneath it were used for storing food, and offered protection when the fort was under attack. From here, you’ll be rewarded with amazing views across Belfast, and can visit the castle itself when you reach the bottom of the hill, where you can enjoy refreshments and discover more about the history and folklore surrounding the area.
Ready to discover these hiking trails in Northern Ireland for yourself? Book your Cairnryan to Larne crossing and start planning your active trip today!
