Unmissable Belfast Day Trips: Top 5 Local Picks
Alright, so you find yourself in Belfast and you’re itching to get out and see more of what Northern Ireland has to offer, right? Very, very good idea. Beyond the city’s terrific vibe, there are all sorts of awesome places only a short drive away, just brimming with history, nature, and seriously stunning scenery. We’ve compiled a list of five day trips, very popular with locals, which promise a memorable escape. Very, very excited to explore them with you!
1. The Majestic Giant’s Causeway
The Giant’s Causeway? Now, it’s just something else, isn’t it? This UNESCO World Heritage Site is something people travel the world to come see, alright, and lucky for you, you’re only around an hour away from it. Legend has it that this incredible rock formation, it’s almost like stepping stones built by a giant named Finn McCool. Actually, science geeks believe it’s the result of ancient volcanic activity, that sounds likely. Very, very cool, in either case, just roaming across those basalt columns and looking out at the sea. Be sure to make some space, just to take it all in. very refreshing and revitalizing!
That drive along the Causeway Coastal Route to get there is an event by itself. That is spectacular views, right? The route hugs the coastline, winding past rugged cliffs, gorgeous beaches, and tiny little villages. I mean, you really could stop anywhere and be guaranteed a photo opportunity. As a matter of fact, Ballycastle is a great place to stop for lunch, just chow down on some fresh seafood.
Tips to make the most of it: Wear comfortable shoes, really there can be some walking involved, and the rocks, they are slippery. The visitor center is really, really good. Basically, the experience of walking on it is greatly enhanced. very important when there are loads of different ways to enjoy your experience.
2. Carrickfergus Castle and the Coastal Charm
If you are into castles and little harbor towns, now Carrickfergus is very, very worth a visit. Very convenient, only about a 20-minute drive up the coast from Belfast. So it’s not only a handy little day trip, it’s actually steeped in history and packed with old-world charm. Carrickfergus Castle is one of the best-preserved Norman castles in Ireland, seemingly built way back in the 12th century. As I was saying, walking through those ancient stone walls, very cool, actually just standing in the footsteps of knights and conquerors!
It’s a little harbor town and there’s something quite quaint, don’t you think? About wandering along the waterfront, looking at the boats, just breathe in the sea air. There are also some excellent seafood restaurants, typically you’ll grab yourself a proper good fish and chips.
Extra points if you are wanting a leisurely walk, then go strolling through the Carrickfergus Museum to learn even more about the town’s history. Pretty insightful and enriching.
3. The Mourne Mountains: An Outdoor Playground
Now, if you are fancying a day in the great outdoors, actually the Mourne Mountains will blow your socks off. Arguably one of the more glorious locations Northern Ireland, right? It’s only around an hour’s drive south of Belfast, arguably the mountains provide loads of hiking trails, stunning views, just peace, actually so tranquility that city folks, well, like your truly, crave. As a matter of fact, very awesome place just to escape it all, like your life. Basically. I mean slight climb up Slieve Donard, Northern Ireland’s highest peak. You get, like, views all across the Irish Sea. Fantastic. Fantastic!
Actually, if hiking isn’t really your thing, there are loads of other things to do in the Mournes. Just chilling by Silent Valley Reservoir, which has this certain majestic sense, and the Tollymore Forest Park, arguably ideal just to picnic or go for an extremely lazy stroll.
Make sure you come prepared for any sort of weather, typically in the mountains. Pretty, pretty wild weather so take hiking boots, a raincoat and an adventurous spirit!
4. County Down’s Scenic Delights: Strangford Lough
Right, County Down, this, so offers some, so lovely spots, alright. One place to look over: Strangford Lough. Extremely magnificent and really good views and really really quaint villages, really? Strangford Lough’s, actually an expanse of water dotted with tiny little islands, teeming, I mean, it’s totally filled with wildlife, very charming and also you will enjoy the activities, like your kayaking or birdwatching.
Anyway, take a drive around the Ards Peninsula for, just great sea views, a picturesque and pleasant experience. Anyway. Stopping off at Portaferry is totally an option, actually, it’s a good place to stroll by the harbor or pop into the Exploris Aquarium to make acquaintance with local marine life.
Strangford Lough, an ideal place, honestly just take your time and unwind, right?
5. The Peace Maze at Castlewellan Forest Park
Seeking something different, so that is fun for all ages? Typically you visit the Peace Maze at Castlewellan Forest Park. Anyway, the Maze has very pretty gardens too, anyway the views are amazing. The Peace Maze: symbol for, really Northern Ireland journey.
Now Castlewellan Forest Park itself, this offers a myriad, or, just say other activity possibilities, now? You will wander about formal gardens, basically just relax.
A family picnic is typically nice way of hanging about to savor some delicious delights at nature’s bounty.
