The year 2020 marks the start of a new decade, and with a new decade comes a sense of introspect. What do you want to achieve over the next 10 years? If your answer is “to travel more”, you’re not alone! Travel awakens the soul and opens our eyes to many new experiences, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Considering Northern Ireland as your next travel destination? Here’s the things you must see and do in the Causeway Coast & Glens in 2020:
Take a tour
A great starting point for any trip is to book an experiential tour to learn more about the area. In the Causeway Coast & Glens, we have an abundance of tour providers that suit the needs of every individual. Choose from walking tours, running tours, boat tours, food tours, Game of Thrones® tours and many more! Hear from local experts from the region who will expand your knowledge of the area and the history that makes it so unique.
Explore award-winning beaches
Downhill Beach
Situated along the northern coast of the island of Ireland, the Causeway Coast & Glens is home to many spectacular sandy beaches. In fact, the area boasts five out of Northern Ireland’s eight Blue Flag awarded beaches. Our stunning seascapes and sandscapes are comparable to none, whether you choose to explore the long sandy miles at Benone Strand, or a small secluded shore such as Ballycastle Pebble Beach, you’re guaranteed a stunning experience that you won’t forget in a hurry.
Get lost in enchanted forests
Garvagh Forest
Getting close to nature and taking in the beautiful sights, sounds and smells is a great way to switch off and escape the pressures of busy day-to-day life. Try the Waterfall Walk at the epic Glenariff Forest Park for a breath-taking experience, or take a stroll along the river at the Roe Valley Country Park in Limavady while listening to the birds sing. Dander through Downhill Forest and take in the aromas of wild garlic and lavender before exploring the ruined estate. For a faster-paced experience, check out the newly opened cycling trails at Garvagh Forest which are sure to thrill even the most experienced bikers!
Hike in the mountains
Our diverse landscape promises not only beautiful beaches and fascinating forests, but also epic mountain ranges which offer spectacular views. On Binevenagh Mountain, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, you’ll find the intriguing statue of Manannán mac Lir, overlooking the Limavady area. Head to Ballycastle to take in the views of Fairhead, where it’s distinct headland rises 196 metres above the sea.
Discover the ruins
With Medieval castles, abandoned friaries, and desolate mansions, the Causeway Coastal Route is home to some of Northern Ireland’s richest historical sites. Be sure to check out Dunluce Castle, Bonamargy Friary, Kinbane Castle and Downhill Demesne to learn about the tales behind these iconic attractions and what led to their abandonment.
Have an unforgettable foodie experience
Travelling and exploring is sure to work up an appetite so it’s crucial to refuel at every opportunity you get! Luckily, the Causeway Coast is home to a rich variety of places to chow down. You can go traditional with an Irish stew or seafood chowder featuring the morning’s catch, or you can sample authentic tapas, washed down with a local brew. Visitors can’t get enough of the local food offering, and our local produce is second to none. Fancy learning more about our producers? Visit some of the economusees throughout the region, or book a food tour which showcases the best eateries our towns have to offer.
Explore the nightlife and entertainment
It wouldn’t be a trip to the Emerald Isle without stopping off somewhere for a pint of the black stuff, but why not make a night of it? Towns and villages in the Causeway Coast and Glens are home to many bars, restaurants and venues offering live entertainment throughout the week. Many of the pubs offer traditional music sessions on the weekends, dancing shoes at the ready!
Be adventurous
If you prefer a more active holiday, the Causeway Coast offers many adrenaline-fuelling activities. Take to the water and try your hand at kayaking, surfing or stand up paddle boarding. Don’t quite have your sea legs yet? No problem! There’s plenty more fun to be had on land. Hovercrafting is one option, which you can enjoy just outside the town of Limavady, or head to Carrowmena Activity Centre which offers a great day out for adults and children alike with activities such as archery, abseiling and climbing to enjoy. For more experienced adrenaline junkies, the Causeway Coast is a great location for mountain climbers and coasteering, there’s even a sky diving centre too if you’re feeling particularly brave!
Visit world-famous attractions
The Giant's Causeway
Perhaps one of the most desirable qualities of visiting the Causeway Coast and Glens for a short break is that all of the famous attractions and iconic landscapes are conveniently located close to one another. From Ballycastle, the iconic stones of the Giant’s Causeway are just over a 20 minute drive away. On your way there, you’ll take the scenic route passing through Ballintoy, home to the famous harbour featured in HBO’s Game of Thrones®, as well as the ever-thrilling Carrick-a-rede Rope Bridge, which is suspended 100ft above sea level. The Old Bushmills Distillery is worth a visit too, where you’ll learn about the history and distilling process of the world-famous whiskey.
Relax and rejuvenate
With several spas and well-being centres dotted throughout the region, the Causeway Coast is the ultimate destination to escape to for a well-deserved break away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Everything about these spas, from the lighting to the treatments, is designed to make you calm and relaxed. That’s before you absorb the stunning scenery that surrounds them!
However you choose to spend your break in the Causeway Coast & Glens, you’re guaranteed exciting experiences and magical memories around every corner, with stunning scenery to enjoy at every moment!
Will you be planning a break to Northern Ireland in 2020?
Don’t forget to share your travel pics with us! We’re on Instagram, so be sure to tag us @visitcausewaycoastandglens #VisitCauseway
