The best walks and hikes around Moyarget Lower

Moyarget Lower offers access to over 30 hiking trails, catering to a range of abilities. You'll find everything from gentle coastal strolls to more challenging ascents into the glens.

The terrain around Moyarget Lower is incredibly varied, reflecting its location within the Antrim Coast and Glens Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. You can expect dramatic basalt cliffs and rocky shores along the coast, deep glacial glens with lush woodlands and rivers inland, and undulating moorland plateaus. Some routes feature significant elevation changes, while others offer flatter paths through forests or along bays.

Yes, there are many easy options. Approximately 20 of the trails around Moyarget Lower are rated as easy. A good example is the Kinbane Head & Castle from Whitepark Road — Causeway Coast route, which is a relatively short 3.5 km path offering stunning coastal views from the dramatic headland of Kinbane Castle.

For those seeking a challenge, there are a few more difficult routes available. For instance, the Ballycastle to Knocklayd — Antrim & Glens Coast trail is a moderate 14 km path with significant elevation gain, leading through varied terrain towards the summit of Knocklayd. Another option with substantial ascent is Knocklayd from Drumavoyle Road — Antrim Coast & Glens.

Yes, many routes in the area are designed as loops. For example, the Gracehill House – The Dark Hedges loop from Bush offers a picturesque circular walk through the famous avenue of beech trees. Another option is the Moyle Way: Breen Forest Loop, which takes you through a beautiful forest setting.

The region is rich in natural beauty and historical landmarks. You can explore the iconic basalt formations at places like Elephant Rock, or visit the dramatic ruins of Kinbane Castle perched on a headland. The atmospheric The Dark Hedges also offers a unique walking experience. The glens themselves feature lush woodlands and waterfalls, particularly notable in Glenariff Forest Park.

Absolutely, coastal walks are a highlight of hiking near Moyarget Lower. The area is part of the Causeway Coastal Route, offering dramatic cliff-top paths and scenic views of the North Antrim coast. Routes around Kinbane Castle and towards Ballintoy Harbour provide excellent opportunities to experience the rugged coastline, sandy bays, and basalt formations.

The hiking trails around Moyarget Lower are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 100 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the diverse landscapes, from the dramatic coastal scenery and historic sites to the tranquil glens and forest paths. The variety of routes, suitable for different fitness levels, is also a common highlight.

Yes, the region offers several family-friendly options. Many of the easier, shorter routes are suitable for families, particularly those through woodlands or along less strenuous coastal paths. Glenariff Forest Park, a short drive away, is particularly popular with families due to its well-maintained trails and captivating waterfalls.

Generally, dogs are welcome on many trails in the Moyarget Lower area, especially on public rights of way. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, particularly in areas with livestock or ground-nesting birds, and to check specific park or nature reserve rules before visiting. Always clean up after your dog.

The Antrim Coast and Glens offer beautiful hiking opportunities year-round. Spring brings vibrant wildflowers and nesting birds, while summer provides longer daylight hours and generally milder weather. Autumn showcases stunning foliage in the glens. Winter can be dramatic, with rugged coastal views, but requires appropriate gear for potentially wet and windy conditions. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

Yes, the glens are known for their beautiful waterfalls. Glenariff Forest Park, often called the 'Queen of the Glens,' is particularly famous for its Waterfall Walkway, which guides hikers past several captivating waterfalls, including the Inver River Waterfall and Ess-na-Laragh waterfall, through a national nature reserve.

While some trails might be accessible via local bus services connecting towns like Ballycastle, many of the more remote trailheads in the Antrim Coast and Glens AONB are best reached by car. It's advisable to check Translink Northern Ireland's website for specific bus routes and timetables if you plan to rely on public transport for your hike.