Attractions and Places To See around Shillanavogy - Top 6

The area is rich in natural beauty. You can visit View of the Antrim Coast from Scawt Hill, a volcanic plug offering extensive views of the Antrim Coast and Irish Sea. Another prominent viewpoint is Black Hill, which provides panoramic vistas of the Irish coastline and inland countryside. Don't miss Slemish Mountain, an extinct volcano offering views of the surrounding area and even the Scottish coast on clear days.

Slemish Mountain holds significant historical importance as the place where Saint Patrick is believed to have tended sheep after being abducted. Legend states he found God here, later returning as a priest. Many people hike to its summit, especially on St. Patrick's Day (March 17), to commemorate this connection.

Yes, Shillanavogy Valley itself gained international recognition as a filming location for HBO's "Game of Thrones." It served as the vast plains of the Dothraki Sea and also as the practice ground at Runestone in the Vale of Arryn. The broader County Antrim region also features other iconic Game of Thrones sites like the Dark Hedges and Cushendun Caves.

You'll find a variety of hiking trails. For example, you can explore the moderate Killylane Reservoir & Ballyboley Forest loop or the more challenging Sallagh Braes and Scawt Hill Loop. The ascent of Slemish Mountain is a 1.5km circular trail that is rocky and steep, considered challenging.

Yes, Killylane Reservoir is a family-friendly spot, perfect for leisurely strolls or picnics on its lush green banks. Ballyboley Forest also offers a picturesque setting for walks and jogs suitable for families.

When hiking near Shillanavogy, particularly on Slemish Mountain, it's crucial to be equipped for rapidly changing weather conditions. The climb can be rocky and steep, so sturdy footwear and layers of clothing are recommended to adapt to potential shifts in weather.

Absolutely! The area offers several routes for both running and road cycling. For running, you can find trails like the Black Hill loop from Scawt Hill or various loops within Ballyboley Forest. Road cyclists can explore routes such as the Heart Attack Hill loop or the Slemish Summit loop.

Killylane Reservoir is often described as a hidden treasure. Situated on open moorland near Ballyboley Forest, it offers a pristine and tranquil setting for peaceful strolls or picnics away from more crowded areas.

From Scawt Hill, you can enjoy extensive views up and down the incredible Antrim Coast and out to the Irish Sea. Black Hill offers uninterrupted panoramic views of the Irish coastline to the north and south, as well as the inland countryside. From Slemish Mountain, you can see the surrounding area and even the Scottish coast on clear days.

Ballyboley Forest provides a picturesque setting for leisurely strolls or invigorating jogs. Located in the southern end of the Antrim Coast & Glens Area of Natural Beauty, it is home to a diverse range of 70 different native tree species, offering a rich natural environment.

While the area is beautiful year-round, clear days are ideal for enjoying the panoramic views from Slemish Mountain, where you might even see the Scottish coast. For those interested in the historical aspect, St. Patrick's Day (March 17) sees hundreds hiking Slemish Mountain.