If you’re looking for a scenic drive near Belfast, you’re in luck! Northern Ireland is a beautiful country with stunning landscapes that are best seen from the comfort of your car. From rolling hills to rugged coastlines, there are plenty of routes to choose from that offer breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences.
So, buckle up and get ready to hit the road. Here are some of the best places to go for a scenic drive near Belfast.
- Causeway Coastal Route
The Causeway Coastal Route is one of the most famous and beautiful drives in Northern Ireland. It stretches from Belfast to Derry/Londonderry and takes you through some of the most stunning scenery on the island. The route is approximately 120 miles long and takes around 5-7 hours to complete, depending on how often you stop to take in the sights.
Along the way, you’ll pass through picturesque seaside towns like Carrickfergus, Larne, and Ballycastle. You’ll also see some of Northern Ireland’s most famous landmarks, including the Giant’s Causeway, Dunluce Castle, and the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge.
The route is well-signposted, and there are plenty of places to stop for food, drink, and souvenirs along the way. If you’re short on time, you can also choose to do a shorter section of the route, such as the stretch from Ballycastle to the Giant’s Causeway, which is only around 20 miles.
- Mourne Mountains
If you’re a fan of hiking and scenic drives, the Mourne Mountains are a must-see. Located around an hour’s drive from Belfast, the Mournes offer some of the most stunning views in Northern Ireland. The range itself is home to Northern Ireland’s highest peak, Slieve Donard, which stands at 850 meters tall.
The drive through the Mourne Mountains takes you through quaint villages and past picturesque lakes and waterfalls. One of the most scenic routes is the Slieve Croob Scenic Loop, which is a 20-mile circular route that takes you through the heart of the Mournes. Along the way, you’ll pass through charming towns like Castlewellan and Dromara, as well as some of the most beautiful countryside in Northern Ireland.
- Strangford Lough
If you’re looking for a scenic coastal drive, Strangford Lough is the perfect destination. Located just 30 minutes from Belfast, Strangford Lough is the largest sea inlet in the British Isles and is home to some of Northern Ireland’s most beautiful coastline.
The drive around Strangford Lough takes you through pretty villages like Portaferry and Strangford, as well as past stunning beaches and rocky coves. One of the highlights of the drive is the Castle Ward Estate, which is home to some of Northern Ireland’s most impressive stately homes and gardens.
- Glens of Antrim
The Glens of Antrim are a collection of nine picturesque valleys located on the Antrim coast, around an hour’s drive from Belfast. The valleys are home to some of Northern Ireland’s most beautiful countryside, including rolling hills, tranquil rivers, and stunning waterfalls.
The drive through the Glens takes you past quaint villages like Cushendall, Ballycastle, and Glenarm, as well as some of Northern Ireland’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Dark Hedges and the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. Along the way, you’ll also be treated to stunning views of the North Atlantic Ocean, making this drive a truly unforgettable experience.
- Sperrin Mountains
The Sperrin Mountains are a range of rolling hills and rugged peaks located around an hour and a half’s drive from Belfast. The drive through the Sperrins takes you through some of the most beautiful and unspoiled countryside in Northern Ireland. The route is approximately 60 miles long and takes around 2-3 hours to complete, depending on how often you stop to take in the views.
The drive through the Sperrins takes you through pretty villages like Plumbridge and Draperstown, as well as past scenic viewpoints and picturesque rivers. One of the highlights of the drive is the Gortin Glen Forest Park, which is home to some of Northern Ireland’s most stunning forest trails and walking routes.
- Strangford Peninsula
The Strangford Peninsula is a hidden gem located just 45 minutes from Belfast. The drive around the peninsula takes you through some of the most stunning coastal scenery in Northern Ireland, including sandy beaches, rocky coves, and rolling hills.
Along the way, you’ll pass through charming villages like Portaferry and Ards, as well as some of Northern Ireland’s most historic landmarks, such as Grey Abbey and Mount Stewart. One of the highlights of the drive is the Strangford Lough Wildlife Centre, which is home to some of Northern Ireland’s most fascinating wildlife.
- Lough Neagh
Lough Neagh is the largest lake in Northern Ireland and is located just 30 minutes from Belfast. The drive around the lake takes you through some of Northern Ireland’s most beautiful countryside, including rolling hills, tranquil forests, and picturesque lakeside villages.
One of the highlights of the drive is the Oxford Island Nature Reserve, which is home to some of Northern Ireland’s most diverse wildlife. The reserve is also a great place to stop for a picnic or a walk along one of the many scenic trails.
Conclusion
Northern Ireland is a beautiful country with some of the most stunning scenery in the world. Whether you’re looking for a coastal drive, a mountain route, or a lakeside adventure, there are plenty of options to choose from near Belfast. So, what are you waiting for? Pack a picnic, hit the road, and get ready to experience the beauty of Northern Ireland from the comfort of your ca