Myth, legend and enchanting landscape
Wild and untouched hilltop views The Sperrins are one of Northern Ireland's hidden walking gems. Stretching along the border of counties Tyrone and Derry~Londonderry they can be best described as wild, untouched and beautiful. This section journeys through the heart of the range, mainly following quiet roads and tracks. Highlights of this section include Barnes Gap, the exceptionally scenic Glenelly Valley, and Eagles Rock.
Crossing from Donegal into Northern Ireland at Kelly's Bridge, the trail passes through Killeter Forest, one of the largest areas of coniferous woodland in Ireland. The trail continues along forest track and country roads to Killeter. The village and surrounding countryside has a rich and diverse cultural heritage ranging from archaeological monuments from over 5,000 years ago, to sites associated with the earliest days of Christianity in Ireland and St. Patrick, Ireland's Patron Saint.
The trail then continues through the Sperrins to Binevenagh where walkers can meet the famous statue of the Sea god 'Manannán Mac Lir' overlooking Lough Foyle.
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Towering sea cliffs and rural rambles The spectacular cliffs of Slieve League (the highest accessible cliffs in Europe) mark the official start point of the IAT Ulster-Ireland. A challenging walk following the cliff top path and returning via the Pilgrims Path, will give you a more rewarding view of the region. On a clear day visitors can see across to County Mayo. Walkers on this section are advised to have a good head for heights, proper walking equipment and a good level of fitness. Beyond the cliffs, walkers can enjoy rural trails following the Bluestack Way past rivers, turf fields and around the tranquil waters of Lough Eske. This section of the IAT Ulster-Ireland offers visitors the chance to connect with Ireland's history through wild untouched landscapes, folk villages and castle ruins.
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Breathtaking views and rich biodiversity The IAT Ulster-Ireland picks up the iconic Ulster Way at the northern slopes of Bolaght Mountain. The trail through this region follows quiet country roads, woodland trails and open countryside. One of the highlights of this section is the ascent of Bessy Bell, a popular walk with locals and tourists alike. Upon reaching the summit you will be rewarded with panoramic views of the western Sperrins and on a good day views of Mount Errigal in Donegal. From here the trail weaves its way towards Gortin Glen Forest Park before continuing to the serene surrounds of Gortin Lakes. Set amidst the broad sweep of the Sperrins foothills, the Gortin Lakes have their origins in the late glacial period.
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Rugged coastline and giant footsteps The Causeway Coastal Route section of the IAT Ulster-Ireland is picked up at Binevenagh Mountain. Here walkers are in for a treat following rugged coastline along the most northerly edge of Ulster.
Flora & fauna As walkers journey along the IAT Ulster-Ireland there is a wealth of flora and fauna to discover, from heather outcrops and bog cotton to wild garlic and a variety of plants used in traditional Irish Herbal remedies.
Steeped in myth and legend, follow the giant footsteps of Finn McCool past the Giant's Causeway following high clifftop paths and white sandy beaches to the coastal town of Ballycastle. The trail then follows the eastern edge of Northern Ireland through some of the most glorious coastline and glens. One of the highlights of this section is the opportunity to visit Ulster's largest waterfalls in Glenariff Forest Park. Also known as 'Queen of the Glens', this location is said to be the mythological home of Finn McCool’s great rival Goll MacMorna.
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Glorious glens and rolling hills The final section of the IAT Ulster-Ireland takes in quiet coastal villages and the spectacular Antrim Hills on its way to the port town of Larne. The trail takes in a combination of hilltop trails and coast paths all of which afford spectacular views across the sea to Scotland on a clear day. Highlights of this region include Scawt Hill, Carnfunnock Country Park and Glenarm Castle and Garden.