2 | NORTHERN IRELAND - Say Hello to More
Contents
Glenariff Waterfall
04 Above and beyond par
Professional golfer, Rory McIlroy, tells Clodagh Dooley about his golfing highlights and hotspots
06 Belfast: Quarter by quarter
Only have 48 hours to spend in Northern Ireland’s unique capital? We’ve narrowed down some of the highlights you shouldn’t miss
08 Discover Derry-Donegal from history-steeped Beech Hill
What you can expect during your stay at the Beech Hill Country House Hotel
Dunluce Castle on the Causeway Coast
The
09 Top off your Northern Ireland stay at Mahon’s
Situated in the centre of the Fermanagh Lakeland, Irvinestown, here’s why Mahon’s Hotel is an ideal setting for your family holiday, business trip or break of a lifetime
10 Landscape of inspiration
Immerse yourself in the magic of Northern Ireland, where some of the finest art, literature and film come alive – here are the places worth a visit
12 Adventure of a lifetime
From a sea safari at Strangford Lough to hover crafting at the Sperrins, Northern Ireland is a land of endless adventure. Whether it’s a gentle or extreme activity you’re looking for, here are some options to help you plan your trip
13 Awe-inspiring sights at Marble Arch Caves Geopark Exciting tours for the whole family this spring or summer
14 Wonders on the Causeway Coast
Exploring Northern Ireland’s Causeway Coastal Route this spring/summer? Let us inspire you with some of the top highlights you will experience along the way
15 Made for sport
Sport is a huge part of Northern Ireland’s identity and culture, and 2017 is the year made for sport. Here’s how, you too, can be a part of this amazing sporting year
16 A day in Derry
There’s never been a better time to visit Derry than now – get planning your itinerary
18 Hidden treasures
Some of the lesser known, but no less appealing, places waiting to be discovered
19 Perfect timing
Check out these exciting, upcoming familyfriendly events and activities A BeCreative Editorial Production www.becreative.ie Editor: Clodagh Dooley Contributors: Kevin Flanagan, Ben Murnane INM Sales: Carol McMenamin (048) 43 75 1912 Design: Susan McClean, INM Design Studio, Belfast Repro: Independent Newspapers (Ireland) Limited, 27-32 Talbot Street, Dublin 1
www.sayhellotomore.ie
Northern Ireland You may be looking at booking a weekend trip or holiday abroad this spring or summer, with the goal of getting as far away from your hectic day-to-day life as possible. But, don’t rule out holidaying in neighbouring Northern Ireland this year – in fact, make it one of the top destinations to visit. Here are some of the reasons why Two million people can’t be wrong
Quickly becoming recognised for its natural heritage, cultural treasures, coastlines and long sandy beaches, outdoor activities, and an increasingly vibrant food and music scene, it’s no surprise that over two million overseas tourists visited and stayed in Northern Ireland last year. While those living outside Northern Ireland may have an image of the country as suffused with the effects of years of conflict, this isn’t the case. While you will certainly get a glimpse of past, Northern Ireland today is rejuvenated and a visit will introduce you to a new, positive and vibrant culture and people. Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter contrasts the old with the new, with upmarket eateries nearby some of the oldest streets in Belfast, dating back to the seventeenth century. Visitors will never find a dull moment in SS Nomadic at Titanic Belfast
experience
this cultural hub, which is also home to the Metropolitan Arts Centre (MAC). Travel writer Ben Murnane, who recently visited the city, says: “Belfast feels culturally quite different to Dublin, yet is so close. The people are incredibly friendly and welcoming. My fiancé, Sandra, said the buildings reminded her of Ottawa; those old-style, British buildings. That the city is steeped in history is evident everywhere – but there isn’t a sense of being trapped by the past.” And it’s not just Northern Ireland itself which has been rejuvenated – the north also has the ability to rejuvenate you. The Causeway Coast has a rich tapestry of legendary landmarks and walkways to explore. For those who really crave a peaceful getaway, make sure to take a day trip to Rathlin Island, off the coast of Co Antrim. Rathlin is the only inhabited offshore island of Northern Ireland and has a small population of only around 70 people. It’s a haven for tales of myth and mystery, as well as abundant wildlife – you can find a colony of seals who regularly sunbathe on the rocks at Mill Bay!
The MAC, Belfast sanctuaries such as Victoria Square Shopping Centre in Belfast.
Made for you
Sport is a big part of Northern Ireland’s culture. From golfing greats, such as Rory McIlroy (see our interview on page 4!), to rugby warriors, it’s fast becoming the key destination for many international sporting events. For a guide to what’s on, turn to page 15. Or, if you want to get involved in sport, there are plenty of adventure activities Added value to try – from kayaking in the Fermanagh A momentary welcome change for Lakelands, llama trekking with Jungle NI consumers here in the Republic of Ireland in Co Derry to mountain biking in Blessis the weakening of the pound due to ingbourne Mountain, Tyrone. You will find Brexit. Products that are priced in sterling, something different to do that will get the such as clothes, may be cheaper as the entire family involved. euro has grown in strength against the Clare McCoy, Press Officer (ROI) with pound – which is good news Tourism NI says: “As the days begin for shopaholics, who There are more to stretch, spring is a perfect can now spend more time to take that short break things to do, see and time in some of the to Northern Ireland. From experience in Northern Ireland glorious shopping Titanic Belfast, the than many people might realise. world’s leading tourist Throughout this magazine, we’ll show you attraction, to the many of the amazing places you can visit and stunning beauty of you can use this as a helpful guide to create your the Causeway Coastown ‘must-see’ list! al Route, our special offers mean there is For further information and to check out the ‘Say no better time to get Hello to More’ spring campaign offers in Northern away. Tourism NI Ireland, visit www.discovernorthernireland.com or callsave 1850 230 230 are encouraging visitors to ‘Say Hello to More’ in Northern Ireland - more time for you, more special moments, more unique experiences.”