Here in Northern Ireland we’ve got walks and hikes to suit all ability levels, including a 6-Peak Challenge and any number of one-off climbs, hikes and mountain walks to challenge your stamina and heighten your senses.
The Mourne Mountains
Within the Mournes you'll find incredible hikes across 12 mountains in a recognised Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, of varied terrain and elevations. Walkers and enthusiasts often climb multiple peaks in one day, taking part in the Seven Sevens or Mourne Wall Challenge. With a walking time of 12 hours plus, these aren't for the faint hearted. The peaks can also be tackled individually, and any trip up the Mournes offers incredible coastal and rural views (weather permitting!), making it well worth the time and effort.
Slieve Donard, Northern Ireland’s highest summit stands at 853m (that’s 2,798 feet in old money), overlooking the coastal town of Newcastle and on a good day rewards walkers with breathtaking views of the wider mountain range and out over the Irish Sea including glimpses of the Isle of Man, Wicklow, Donegal, Wales and Scotland. Other famous peaks to climb include Slieve Bearnagh (739m), Slieve Commedagh (767m) or follow the famous hand-built Mourne Wall, ascending the spectacular South and North Tors to the summit of Binnian (747m or 2,450ft) and enjoy the striking panoramas of Silent Valley, Ben Crom Reservoirs, the Blue Lough and Annalong Forest. Below your feet is the 2.5-mile Binnian tunnel, built between 1947 and 1951 by over 150 men led by candlelight, which carries water from the Annalong valley to the Silent Valley Dam. The summits of Slieve Meelbeg (708m / 2322ft) and Slieve Meelmore (682 / 2,238ft) offer stunning views of Lough Shannagh (aka the ‘Lake of the Fox’ according to folklore), which is situated beneath the mountain and the largest natural body of water in the Mourne Mountains.
The Mourne Wall, a remarkable structural feat built between 1904 and 1922, is a 22-mile (35.5km) stone wall enclosing 9,000 acres of land. Originally built to keep livestock out of the water catchment area of the Silent Valley Reservoir, it spans over 9,000 feet of ascent and connects many of the highest peaks, including Slieve Donard. Many walkers use it as a physical guide, taking them from summit to peak of many of the mountains.
Check out our guide to some of the best bits of the Mourne Mountains for walkers in our blog.
Tackle the Causeway Coastal Route
The Causeway Coast and Glens of Antrim are justifiably famous for the Giant’s Causeway, but for those with an interest in walking there is much more to discover and enjoy between the spectacular coastlines, natural beauty and countless myths and legends which collide here in spectacular fashion.
Comprising of three designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, nine famous glens, lush forest parks, secluded coastal tracks and numerous quaint fishing villages, you will adore exploring the rugged landscape on foot via the must-visit Causeway Coast Way. This two-day route, spanning roughly just over 50k from Portstewart to Ballycastle, two beautiful coastal towns, passes through an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a World Heritage Site and several Areas of Specific Scientific Interest.
Plus for those looking to explore more beyond the coast, we recommend exploring Rathlin Island, Ireland's most northerly inhabited island. The short ferry carries passengers back and forth across the Sea of Moyle, to the small island which is home to thousands of seabirds, including guillemots, kittiwakes, puffins and razorbills. The working lighthouse is part of the Great Lighthouses of Ireland tour, and a beautiful attraction perched high on the cliff.
Strike out across the Sperrin Mountains
Find and fall for the wild and untouched charms of the Sperrin Mountains, stretching along the borders of counties Tyrone and Londonderry. Spanning 40 miles, expect undulating hills covered in heather, quiet valleys, boggy uplands and a land teeming with wildlife. Add in over 90 sets of stone circles and many other intriguing, megalithic structures, you will find the Sperrins a walking wonder. Check out Weekend Wanders in the Sperrins for inspiration on your next walking adventure.
The Ulster Way
This circular walking route takes in the six counties of Northern Ireland, across long distance waymarked and non waymarked sections. Due to the distance involved for this route, it's recommended to break it up into manageable sections and use public transport for the non waymarked sections. Walk NI have created one day, multi day and full trail itineraries, with detailed route descriptions and suggested stops for accommodation and food & drink along the way. Refer to their comprehensive guide on the Walk NI website.
These are just a few of the walking and hiking routes across Northern Ireland, and we'd love to hear how you get on during your explorations - share your photos with us on social media using #MyGiantAdventure
"Where the Mountains of Mourne sweep down to the sea" (Percy French) The popular song has made the Mournes the best known mountains in Ireland. Distinctive and self contained, they are tucked away in the south east corner of Northern Ireland. Dominated by Slieve Donard, Northern Ireland's highest peak, this area of outstanding natural beauty is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
Amidst the rugged landscape of this isolated island, you can let your mind wander and discover a tranquillity and beauty that is so unexpected.
