Long distance walks along the IAT Ulster-Ireland you can do in approximately a week of walking.
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Bunglass to Killeter incorporating the Bluestack Way
This itinerary takes in the first stretch of the IAT Ulster-Ireland in County Donegal, following the Atlantic Coast from Bunglas, past Slieve League, Glencolmcille, Ardara before reaching Glenties. From Glenties, the trail continues to travel through County Donegal passing Lough Eske and crossing the Northern Ireland Border into County Tyrone before ending in the village of Killeter. This trail incorporates the 65km Bluestack Way which takes in a true wilderness area of County Donegal boasting great views as it traverses the Bluestack Mountains, a range of low rounded hills.
Distance – 76 miles | More Information – Bunglas to Glenties and Glenties to Killeter
Killeter to Dungiven taking in the spectacular Sperrins
Starting in the village of Killeter, this section of the IAT follows quiet country roads, areas of woodland, before picking up the Ulster Way on the northern slopes of Bollaght Mountain. The route is waymarked from here using yellow on blue Ulster Way signage. You then ascend Bessy Bell, where panoramic views of the western Sperrins can be enjoyed. The route continues to reach Gortin Forest Park, Gortin Lakes and the village of Gortin itself. The trail then takes in the south Sperrins and considering it traverses such a significant mountain range, this walk has surprisingly little ascent and descent. Following quiet mountain roads the route leads to Moneyneany, a tiny village nestled in the Sperrin Mountains. The original Irish name for the village is Mona na nIongnadh, which translates as ‘bog of the wonders’, a reference to the great feats of magic reputed to have been performed here by ancient Irish warriors. The walk climbs north across the northern extension of the Sperrins. Close to the top of the climb is a crumbling basalt escarpment on the right, a formation that marks the southern edge of the North Derry Plateau. The descent brings you down into the Roe Valley, which is renowned for its fishing and the River Roe is designated as an Area of Special Scientific Interest The walk finishes in Dungiven, an historic town that grew up around the site of an Augustinian Priory, founded by the O’Cahan Clan in 1100 AD.
Distance – 71 miles | More Information – Killeter to Gortin, Gortin to Moneyneany and Moneyneany to Dungiven
Dungiven to Castlerock incorporating the North-Sperrins Way and the Causeway Coast Way
With so much to see and explore along this section of trail we know many walkers could entertain themselves for a full week just on the Causeway Coast section from Portstewart to the seaside town of Ballycastle. Step off the trail and get up close to the stones of the Giant’s Causeway, cross Carrick-a-rede rope bridge, explore the castles and white sandy beaches. However, those wishing to stay on the IAT Trail and rack up the miles should explore the full section from Dungiven right up and along the most northerly edge of Northern Ireland.
Distance – 94.6 miles | More Information – Dungiven to Castlerock incorporating the North-Sperrins Way and Causeway Coast Way
Ballycastle to Larne via the Moyle Way
A fantastic walk taking in the eastern coast of Northern Ireland through the spectacular Glens of Antrim and Antrim Hills. One of the many highlights along this section of trail include Glenariff Forest Park which boasts spectacular waterfalls and Glenarm Castle where you can enjoy a coffee or lunch in the walled garden. This section of the IAT Ulster-Ireland takes walkers through a magnificent land of geology, wildlife, history and folklore, this route passes a wealth of rivers, ancient monuments and exposed hill summits.
Distance – 60.20 miles | More Information – Moyle Way, Waterfoot to Glenarm and Glenarm to Larne