OFF THE BEATEN TRACK in Ireland’s county ANTRIM

County Antrim, on Ireland’s rugged northeast coast, is famous for attractions like the Giant’s Causeway and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, but it’s also home to lesser-known gems that offer solitude, natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage. These off-the-beaten-track locations in Antrim provide authentic experiences away from the tourist crowds, perfect for adventurers seeking hidden treasures.

Torr Head: Perched on the remote northeastern tip of the Antrim Coast, Torr Head is a wild, windswept promontory with panoramic views across the North Channel to Scotland, just 12 miles away on clear days. The rugged coastal path and abandoned coastguard station add a sense of isolation, while the headland’s history as a maritime lookout point includes tales of shipwrecks and smugglers. The short, steep trail offers stunning sea vistas and chances to spot dolphins or basking sharks.
Why Off the Beaten Track?: Far less visited than nearby Cushendun or Ballycastle, Torr Head’s remote location and lack of facilities make it a haven for those seeking solitude.
Access: A 20-minute drive from Ballycastle via narrow, winding roads. Park at the small layby near Torr Road; the trail is a 1–2km walk, but the terrain is uneven, so wear sturdy shoes. Visit on a clear day for the best views of Scotland’s Mull of Kintyre, and bring binoculars for wildlife spotting. Check tide times for safer coastal exploration.
Glenariff Forest Park – Lesser-Known Trails: While Glenariff, one of the nine Glens of Antrim, is known for its Waterfall Walk, its quieter trails, like the Scenic Trail (9km, moderate) or the Moyle Way sections, lead through dense woodlands, past hidden streams, and up to breathtaking viewpoints over the glen. The park’s lush greenery and red deer sightings make it a peaceful retreat, with fewer visitors venturing beyond the main waterfall path.
Why Off the Beaten Track?: Most tourists stick to the short Waterfall Walk, leaving the longer trails to locals and hikers seeking solitude in the glens’ dramatic landscapes.
Access: A 15-minute drive from Cushendall or 30 minutes from Ballymena. Parking is available at the forest park’s entrance, with clear trail signs. Visit in autumn for vibrant foliage or spring for wildflowers. Bring a picnic to enjoy at one of the quieter viewpoints, and wear waterproof boots for muddy paths.
Knocklayde Mountain: Rising above Ballycastle, Knocklayde (514m) is a lesser-known hill offering a rewarding hike with sweeping views over the Antrim Coast, Rathlin Island, and even Scotland on clear days. The 6–8km round-trip hike (moderate to challenging) starts in a forest and ascends through heather-covered slopes, with a cairn marking the summit. The mountain is steeped in local folklore, tied to ancient Celtic tales.
Why Off the Beaten Track?: Overshadowed by the more famous Slemish Mountain, Knocklayde attracts mainly local walkers, offering a quiet alternative for panoramic views.
Access: Start from the car park near Ballycastle Forest, about 10 minutes from Ballycastle by car. The trail is unmarked in parts, so a map or GPS is recommended. Hike in summer for drier conditions, and bring a windproof jacket, as the summit can be blustery. Stop in Ballycastle afterward for fish and chips at a local pub.
Cushendun Village and Caves: The picturesque village of Cushendun, designed by Clough Williams-Ellis (creator of Portmeirion), is a quiet coastal gem with whitewashed cottages and a serene harbor. Nearby, the Cushendun Caves, formed over millions of years, gained fame as a “Game of Thrones” filming location (Melisandre’s shadow scene) but remain less crowded than other series sites. The caves are accessible via a short coastal walk, offering a moody, atmospheric experience.
Why Off the Beaten Track?: While the Antrim Coast Road draws tourists, Cushendun’s small size and tucked-away caves see fewer visitors than hotspots like Carrickfergus Castle.
Access: A 15-minute drive from Cushendall or 25 minutes from Ballycastle. Park in the village and walk 5–10 minutes to the caves along the beach path. Visit at low tide to explore the caves safely, and stop at Mary McBride’s Bar (now a tiny pub) for a pint and local stories.
Rathlin Island – West Lighthouse and Seabird Centre: Rathlin Island, 6 miles off Ballycastle, is a remote haven with a population of about 150. The West Lighthouse, also known as the “upside-down lighthouse” (built into the cliff with the light at the base), is a unique marvel surrounded by cliffs teeming with puffins, guillemots, and razorbills during breeding season (April–July). The nearby RSPB Seabird Centre offers guided tours and telescope views of the colonies.
Why Off the Beaten Track?: While Rathlin’s main village sees day-trippers, the West Lighthouse and its trails are quieter, offering a raw connection to the island’s wildlife and maritime history.
Access: Take a 25-minute fast ferry or 45-minute regular ferry from Ballycastle to Rathlin. From the harbor, it’s a 4km walk or bike ride to the lighthouse (bike rentals available). Visit in early summer for peak seabird activity, and bring binoculars. Stay overnight at a local guesthouse for a deeper island experience, and try fresh seafood at the island’s pub.
Slemish Mountain – Alternative Routes: Slemish, near Broughshane, is famed as the hill where St. Patrick was enslaved as a youth, but its lesser-known back routes, like those starting from the quieter eastern side, offer a peaceful ascent away from the main path. The 3–5km hike (moderate) rewards with 360-degree views of Antrim’s patchwork fields and distant Mourne Mountains. The surrounding area has hidden streams and old farm tracks for further exploration.
Why Off the Beaten Track?: Most visitors stick to the crowded main trail, leaving the alternative routes to locals and dedicated hikers seeking solitude.
Access: A 30-minute drive from Ballymena. Park at the eastern base near Carnstroan Road for quieter trails, though a map is advised due to sparse signage. Hike in spring for wildflowers or on St. Patrick’s Day (March 17) for local festivities, but arrive early to avoid crowds. Bring a thermos for a summit coffee break.
General Tips for Exploring County Antrim:
Transportation: A car is essential for reaching these remote spots, as public transport is limited outside Belfast and Ballymena. Bikes are great for Rathlin Island or coastal paths near Cushendun. Check ferry schedules for Rathlin, as services can be weather-dependent.
Seasonal Considerations: Summer (June–August) is ideal for hiking, coastal walks, and wildlife spotting, with longer daylight hours. Winter (December–March) offers dramatic, moody landscapes but requires caution due to wet, slippery trails. Spring and autumn are quieter with mild weather for hiking.
Local Culture: Embrace Ireland’s hospitality by chatting with locals in pubs or village shops. Respect private farmland, stick to marked paths, and be mindful of livestock, especially sheep. Try Antrim specialties like Ulster fry (a hearty breakfast) or soda bread with local butter.
Preparation: Pack waterproof clothing and sturdy hiking boots, as Antrim’s weather is notoriously changeable, especially on the coast. Carry a map or GPS for unmarked trails like Knocklayde or Slemish, and check tide times for coastal sites like Cushendun Caves.

These off-the-beaten-track attractions in County Antrim offer a blend of rugged coastal beauty, historical depth, and serene landscapes, perfect for travelers seeking to explore beyond the tourist hotspots