The best walks and hikes around Craigtown Beg

Hiking around Craigtown Beg primarily features coastal paths and promenades, offering scenic views of the North Atlantic. The terrain generally has low elevation gains, making many routes accessible. You'll often traverse sandy beaches, rocky shorelines, and developed coastal areas, providing a mix of natural features and urbanized waterfronts.

There are over 60 hiking routes available around Craigtown Beg. These range from easy strolls to more challenging long-distance options, catering to various fitness levels.

Yes, Craigtown Beg offers numerous easy hiking options. Over 40 of the available routes are graded as easy, featuring minimal elevation gain and generally well-maintained paths along the coast. A good example is the Causeway Coast Way: Portrush Loop, which is 3.5 miles (5.7 km) long and takes about 1 hour 28 minutes to complete.

For those seeking a longer challenge, the Portrush to Portstewart — Causeway Coast route is a difficult 13.4 miles (21.6 km) path. It typically takes over 5 hours to complete and offers an extended coastal experience between the two towns.

The trails around Craigtown Beg are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 100 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the stunning coastal scenery, the accessibility of the paths, and the variety of routes that combine natural beauty with charming seaside towns.

Yes, there are several circular walks. For instance, the West Strand Promenade – Portstewart Promenade loop from Dhu Varren is a moderate 7.2 miles (11.5 km) route that offers varied coastal scenery. Another popular option is the Portstewart Promenade – Portstewart Strand loop from Portstewart, which is 5.7 miles (9.2 km) and leads through coastal promenades and sandy beaches.

Many of the coastal paths and promenades around Craigtown Beg are generally dog-friendly, especially those on public rights of way. However, if you venture towards sensitive nature reserves like Lough Beg, dogs are often not permitted, particularly to protect ground-nesting birds and livestock. Always check local signage for specific restrictions.

Given the prevalence of easy coastal paths and promenades with low elevation, many routes around Craigtown Beg are suitable for families. These paths often offer easy access and pleasant views, making them ideal for walks with children. The shorter loop trails are particularly good choices for families.

Along the trails, you can explore various natural features and landmarks. Highlights include the Portrush National Nature Reserve and the scenic Magheracross Viewpoint. You might also encounter historical sites such as the Dunluce Castle Ruins, which are often visible from coastal routes.

Yes, the area is rich in history. Besides the prominent Dunluce Castle Ruins, you can also visit the Downhill House Ruins, the Downhill Demesne Dovecote and Ice House, and the iconic Mussenden Temple. Further afield, Lough Beg features Church Island, home to medieval church ruins and a Bullaun Stone, accessible by foot in summer.

Given the coastal nature of the trails and their proximity to towns like Portrush and Portstewart, public transport options such as local buses are likely available to reach various starting points. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for specific routes and stops.

The coastal trails around Craigtown Beg can be enjoyed year-round. However, the spring and summer months (April to September) generally offer milder weather, longer daylight hours, and a more vibrant coastal landscape, making them ideal for hiking. Autumn can also be pleasant with fewer crowds, while winter hikes offer a rugged, dramatic coastal experience, though weather can be more unpredictable.