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Northern Ireland is filled with fascinating places to visit, including some of the most picturesque beaches with breathtaking views. Combine the stunning scenery with a campervan and you’re ready to enjoy Northern Ireland the right way. Here are some of the top adventure spots in Northern Ireland, according to Wild Atlantic Surf Co.
There is just so much to see and do along the Causeway Coast and parking your campervan at White Rocks beach allows you to get right into the heart of all the action. White Rocks is known for its strong surf culture and seaside experiences – there is no better way than to get out on the waves to clear your head.
Moving on around the coast you will find Carrick Dhu Holiday Park overlooking the Blue Flag West Beach, which is within easy reach of Portstewart. Hilltop Holiday Park is another wonderful Portrush option for a night or more under the stars. Each of these venues offers sweeping views over the Atlantic waves and brilliant places to camp, whether you’re taking part in the surfing and sea-sports in Portrush or simply strolling and exploring the strand at Portstewart.
Whether you’re searching for an escape from the every day or simply looking for your next adventure in the open waters, paddleboarding is the perfect activity to cross off your list.
Strangford’s unbeatable scenic views make this the perfect place for beginners. All ages and abilities can enjoy SUPing (stand up paddleboarding), and if you are not that confident at the beginning make sure to check out the SUP skills courses available in Strangford Activity Centre. Before you know it, you will be moving on to some more challenging moves.
The southwest corner of Strangford Lough in Northern Ireland is strewn with beautiful islands and inlets with evocative names like Shark Island, Chapel Island and Brandy Bay. One of the islands known as Salt Island is owned and managed by the National Trust who allow wild camping at Brandy Bay on the north side – the perfect spot to follow along the canoe trail.
In the heart of Belfast City lies one of the best paddle boarding spots in Northern Ireland. The calming waters of the river make for a tranquil SUP session making it the perfect way to relax and soak up the views of Belfast. You might even spot some of the wide variety of wildlife along the river, so keep an eye out!
After you’ve finished paddleboarding why not head into the city centre and dine at one of Belfast’s fantastic restaurants, just minutes away?
If hiking is your thing then Cave Hill is the iconic landmark for you. Once at the peak you can take in the panoramic views of Belfast down below, including the city’s famous landmarks and countryside. The face-like appearance of the hill’s outline is said to have inspired the character of the giant in Jonathan Swift’s famous work Gulliver’s Travels.
Beginning at the beautifully historic Belfast Castle, you can take on a 4.5-mile circular hiking trail that crosses some challenging terrain. On a particularly clear day, you might even see the outline of the Mourne Mountains in the distance.
The countryside of the Sperrins region is one of the most beautiful areas in Ireland. The natural blend of peaks, forests, moors, valleys, lakes and rivers make it an obvious favourite for walkers and ramblers (not to mention those who enjoy wild sea swimming). Hailed as an Area of Outstanding Beauty, the lakes of Gortin Glen make the perfect spot to take a dip against a kaleidoscopic backdrop.
There is nothing better than a staycation for the best water sports and surfing right here in Northern Ireland. Once you’ve ticked the North off your bucket list, check out Wild Atlantic Surf Co guide to the best beaches in Southern Ireland, a true surfer’s ultimate road trip.
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