Easy hikes and walks around Mazes

Embark on an easy coastal hike along the Causeway Coast Way, stretching 4.3 miles (7.0 km) from Whitepark Bay to Ballintoy. This route offers a gentle experience with only 260 feet (79 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 1 hour and 51 minutes to complete. You will traverse expansive white sands, grassy paths, and cliff-top sections, enjoying diverse views of Northern Ireland's rugged coastline and its dramatic rock formations.

Before you set out, it is important to check the tide times for this section of the Causeway Coast Way. Certain parts of the beach and rocky areas can become impassable during high tide, which might require you to take a detour along the A2 road. Planning ahead ensures a smooth and enjoyable journey without unexpected interruptions.

This hike immerses you in the stunning natural beauty of the Causeway Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. As you walk, look out for distinctive features like sea stacks and rock arches, and you might even catch a glimpse of Elephant Rock. The trail culminates at the picturesque Ballintoy Harbour, a location famously used in the filming of Game of Thrones, adding a touch of cinematic history to your adventure.

Hike the Kinbane Head & Castle trail for a captivating coastal experience along Northern Ireland's Causeway Coast. This 2.2-mile (3.5 km) route, though rated easy, presents a challenge with its around 140 steep, twisting stone steps leading down to the historic 16th-century Kinbane Castle. You navigate rugged terrain, where Cretaceous limestone meets volcanic basalt, offering dramatic cliffs and the sound of crashing waves. The path can be narrow and slippery in places, especially near the castle, so wear sturdy footwear. From Kinbane Head, you enjoy sweeping panoramic views of the Antrim coastline, the deep blue sea, and Rathlin Island, with the distant Scottish coast visible on clear days. The trail typically takes about 1 hour and 4 minutes to complete, with an elevation gain of 365 feet (111 metres).

This trail is located off Whitepark Road and is generally quieter than other tourist spots, allowing for a more immersive experience. While the overall distance is short, the steep ascent back to the car park makes it unsuitable for individuals with limited mobility. Barriers are present along much of the descent, but some areas near the castle are unfenced, requiring you to be sure-footed. The path can be uneven and slippery underfoot, so appropriate hiking boots are essential for your safety and comfort.

The primary draw of this route is the dramatic 16th-century Kinbane Castle, perched on a narrow limestone headland. Its name, "Kinbane," means "The White Head" in Irish, referring to the white limestone cliffs. Though largely in ruins, you can still see fragments of its original structure, including a two-story tower. The area also holds historical significance, having played a role in 16th-century power struggles, and features "Lag na Sassenach," or "the Hollow of the English," below the castle.