During hectic lives, we often forget to take time to stop.  Restore your mind and leave the frenetic activity of normal life behind as you gaze out to the sea along the Antrim coast, which is framed by lush greenery and impressive cliffs.  Go for a walk along one of the many stunning beaches, like those at Ballygally, Glenarm, Carnlough, and Cushendun.  

Take the kids to see Glenariff, which is known as Queen of the Glens, and features magical waterfalls and walking trails that are sure to inspire some great fairy stories!

Join in the craic at the Heart of the Glens Festival,  a celebration of music and fun that takes place every August in Cushendall.  An ice cold pint of Guinness is optional!

For total escape, head to Rathlin Island via ferry from Ballycastle.  There are several walking paths, and you might even spot some seals along the shoreline!  Learn about the history of the island at the Boathouse Visitor Centre, where you’ll find a wealth of fascinating detail as well as pieces from real shipwrecks.  For nature lovers, the Seabird Centre is well worth visiting, especially during Puffin season, which is between April and July.

Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty in Northern Ireland

Whether you’re feeling burnt out by a demanding career; exhausted by the demands of looking after others; or looking for a holiday destination that will bring the family together – you can’t go wrong with a break to one of Northern Ireland’s breath-taking Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.  Areas such as the Antrim Coast and Glens, Binevenagh, and the Mourne and Sperrin Mountains are all easily accessible from all over the rest of the UK and Ireland, while being a world away from your daily grind.  Read on to find out just what you can experience when you go on holiday to one of the most beautiful parts of Northern Ireland…