Top 6 Natural Monuments around Cleggan

Cleggan, situated on Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way, offers a diverse range of natural monuments. You can discover dramatic coastlines, ancient historical sites, and various natural formations. The area is particularly known for its stunning waterfalls like Inver River Waterfall and Ess-na-Laragh Waterfall, as well as gorges, mountains, and even the remnant of an extinct volcano, Slemish Mountain.

Yes, several natural monuments around Cleggan are suitable for families. Inver River Waterfall is considered family-friendly and is easily accessible via a hiking trail. Additionally, the Waterfall Trail via Rainbow Trail, an easy hiking route, offers a great option for a family outing.

Cleggan is rich in history. You can visit the Knockbrack Megalithic Tomb, also known as 'Druid's Altar,' which overlooks Sellerna Bay and offers a glimpse into Ireland's prehistoric past. Another significant site is the Cleggan Court Tomb, a Neolithic burial monument dramatically situated on the north banks of Cleggan Bay, only meters from the sea.

The Cleggan area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can explore numerous hiking trails, including easy routes like the 'View of Glenariff Valley – Inver River Waterfall loop.' For those who enjoy cycling, there are several cycling routes, such as the challenging 'Broughshane to Slemish Mountain loop.' Running enthusiasts can also find suitable running trails, including the 'Glenariff Forest loop'.

The best time to visit Cleggan's natural monuments generally depends on your preferred activities. For hiking and exploring, spring and summer (May to September) offer milder weather and longer daylight hours. However, some waterfalls like Cranny Falls are particularly impressive after rainfall, which is more common in autumn and winter, showcasing their full power.

Yes, Slemish Mountain stands out as the remnant of an extinct volcano, offering a unique geological feature and panoramic views. The dramatic shoreline of the Cleggan/Claddaghduff Peninsula also showcases intricate rock formations carved by the Atlantic Ocean.

Visitors frequently praise the stunning natural beauty and the sense of wildness. Many enjoy the rewarding vistas from elevated points like Cleggan Hill and Slemish Mountain. The tranquility of places like Sellerna Beach and the unique experience of visiting Omey Island at low tide are also highly appreciated. The area's natural monuments have received over 90 upvotes and more than 60 photos shared by the komoot community.

While the Atlantic coast offers many opportunities, Inver River Waterfall is noted by visitors as a dream place to watch and swim in its deep pool. Sellerna Beach is also a popular spot for leisurely strolls and swimming in the sea.

Absolutely. Slemish Mountain, with its summit at 437m, provides beautiful views of the surrounding area and even the Scottish coast. Cleggan Hill also offers panoramic views of the landscape and coastline, including the remains of Cleggan Tower.

Omey Island is a unique tidal island near Cleggan. It's accessible at low tide by driving or walking across a 1km expanse of sand known as Omey Strand. This offers an adventurous way to explore its archaeological sites and expansive sandy areas.

Many natural monuments in Cleggan offer fantastic photographic opportunities. The Ess-na-Laragh Waterfall, with its elevated boardwalk leading through the forest, provides a varied backdrop for photographers. The dramatic coastal setting of the Cleggan Court Tomb and the rugged beauty of the Cleggan/Claddaghduff Peninsula also make for stunning shots.

Given the coastal and forested environments, you might encounter various bird species, including seabirds along the dramatic shorelines of the Cleggan/Claddaghduff Peninsula and Omey Island. Forested areas around waterfalls like Inver River Waterfall and Ess-na-Laragh Waterfall could host woodland birds and small mammals. The wild Atlantic setting also provides opportunities to spot marine life from coastal viewpoints.