A picture speaks a thousand words and while we know the best memories will be from physically seeing these iconic locations along the Ulster-Ireland International Appalachian Trail, we know the best way to share your IAT adventure with others is through pictures. To help you find some of the best “picture perfect moments” we have pulled together a list of some of our favourite locations.
Glenariff Waterfalls, Co. Antrim
The astounding beauty of Glenariff Forest Park provides walkers with an abundance of panoramic landscapes, peaceful riverside walks and three spectacular and fast flowing waterfalls tumbling through rocky steep-sided gorges into tranquil pools. Situated among the world-famous Glens of Antrim, Glenariff – Queen of the Glens – that is considered to be the most beautiful of the nine Antrim Glens. The waterfalls can be reached via a series of steps. Please note: there is a steep climb back to the car park so a good level of fitness is recommend. There are also lots of other fantastic walking trails to explore in Glenariff Forest Park.
Sloughan Glen Springs and Waterfall, Co. Tyrone
For those exploring the section of trail between Killeter village and the Ulster American Folk Park we recommend taking a short diversion off the trail to explore the spectacular trail through woodland to Sloughan Glen Springs and Waterfall. The tumbling waterfall can be viewed from below and above on this enchanting 0.3-mile linear woodland walk. A short walk from the car park down a set of steps this hidden gem will be one of the highlights of your journey.
Slieve League Cliff Path, Co. Donegal
We know your camera roll will be filled with pictures from you walk up the iconic cliff path at Slieve League. Not only are the views spectacular from the tallest sea cliffs in Europe, but there is also an abundance of flora, fauna and geological items of interest along the way. Spectacular views can be seen from the viewpoint a short walk from the car park however, even more fantastic views are the reward for confident and fit walkers who able to follow the cliff top path further along the clifftops. Please note: the walk further along the clifftop is only recommended to experienced walkers as caution is needed.
Gortmore Viewpoint & Manannán Mac Lir Statue, Co. Derry~Londonderry
Walkers exploring Binevenagh Gortmore Viewpoint situated on the Bishop’s Road are likely to meet a legend of a different kind. The breath-taking views extend across to Donegal and the islands of Islay and Jura off the west coast of Scotland. The area has strong connections to the world-famous show Game of Thrones as the area was the filming location for the Dothraki Grasslands and the iconic 9ft high statue of Manannán Mac Lir created by sculptor John Sutton, who has worked on Game of Thrones. Manannán Mac Lir (“son of the sea”) is a warrior and king of the otherworld in Irish mythology who is associated with the sea and often interpreted as a sea god. In modern tales, he is said to own a self-navigating boat named Sguaba Tuinne (“Wave-sweeper”) and deadly strength-sapping sword named Fragarach.
White Park Bay, Co. Antrim
The white sandy beaches of White Park Bay are a highlight for many walkers along the Causeway Coast. Not only is this one of the most spectacular beaches in Northern Ireland but it also offers walkers the opportunity to connect with ancient history as you uncover fossils amongst the rocks. A short walk down a series of steps from the car park this rugged beach will give you the feeling of being alone the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the busy tourist hotspots. Those walking to the far end of the beach may also meet a herd of local cows who areknown to frequent the beach.
Scawt Hill, Co. Antrim
The section of trail through the Glens of Antirm takes you through a truly outstanding area of nature beauty that radiate from the Antrim Plateau to the coast. This off-road section of trail takes you through the rugged glens which afford panoramic views of the coast and across the spectacular Northern Irish countryside. You may extend your walk from this point depending on how far you wish to explore.
Glencolmcille Folk Village, Co. Donegal
We recommend those walking through Glencolmcille stop at the Folk Village. This thatched-roof replica of a rural village offers a glimpse into daily life as it was during past centuries. The village is a cluster of serval small cottages, called a ‘clachan’, perched on a hillside overlooking the sandy curve of Glen Bay Beach in the Gaeltacht (Irish-speaking area) of South-west Donegal. Described by many as one of Ireland’s best living-history museums.
Giant’s Causeway, Co. Antrim
Walkers exploring the section of the IAT Ulster-Ireland trail along the rugged clifftop paths of the Causeway Coast are in for a treat getting a Birdseye view of the Giant’s Causeway from above. We recommend at this point following the Shepherds Steps down to the iconic basalt stones. Just a short diversion from the trail you can spend an hour (or more) exploring the famous stones. A shuttle bus service is available for those who want a lift back up to the Visitor Centre.
Share your picture perfect IAT moments!
With so many spectacular sights along the IAT Ulster-Ireland we would love to see your picture-perfect moments. Share your story with us on social media @IATUlsterIreland #IATUlsterIreland