The best walks and hikes around Lisnahay South

Yes, the area has several options suitable for families. A great choice is the Carnfunnock Country Park loop. It's a short, accessible walk of about 2.7 km through a well-maintained park with plenty of other activities available.

Many trails in the region are dog-friendly, but it's always best to keep your dog on a lead, especially near livestock. Rea's Wood is a popular spot for dog walkers, offering a beautiful forest trail along the lough shore. Please note that you may need to pack out your own dog waste as bins are not always available.

Yes, there are several circular routes. For a moderate challenge with rewarding views, consider the Black Hill loop. This 13 km hike takes you up Black Hill and provides excellent panoramic views of the surrounding Antrim Coast and Glens.

The terrain is quite varied. You'll find everything from gentle, well-surfaced paths in forest parks to more rugged, uneven tracks on hillside ascents. Many routes follow old railway lines or forest tracks, while others involve open moorland which can be boggy, so waterproof footwear is highly recommended.

Yes, the walk to Cranny Falls is a local favourite. The Cranny Falls from Carnlough trail is an easy 4.3 km route that follows a former mineral railway line directly to the waterfall, making for a scenic and rewarding walk.

For expansive views, hikes that involve some elevation gain are your best bet. Trails within the Sperrin Mountains, such as those on Slieve Gallion, offer panoramic vistas over Lough Neagh. Closer to the coast, hill climbs provide stunning views of the Glens of Antrim and the sea.

The trails around Lisnahay South are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of over 4.7 stars. Hikers often praise the mix of woodland and coastal scenery, the well-marked paths in places like Glenarm Forest, and the stunning views from the hilltops.

Absolutely. The region is rich with forest parks. The Glenarm Forest loop is a beautiful 4.7 km trail through a mix of broadleaf and conifer woodland. Other notable forests for walking include Drum Manor Forest Park and Davagh Forest in the Sperrins.

It's wise to be prepared for changeable weather. Essential items include waterproof clothing, sturdy and waterproof hiking boots, a map or a fully charged phone with a navigation app, plenty of water, and snacks. Even on shorter walks, conditions can change quickly.

Accessing trailheads by public transport can be challenging as many are in rural locations. Some larger villages like Carnlough or Glenarm may have bus services, but they might be infrequent. Driving is generally the most reliable way to reach the start of most hikes in the area.

Most official trailheads and forest parks, such as Carnfunnock Country Park and Drum Manor Forest Park, have designated car parks. For other routes starting from villages like Carnlough, you may find on-street parking or public car parks. Always park considerately and do not block access for local residents or farm traffic.

Yes, some trails pass by interesting features. The Gortin Quarry & Cranny Falls loop takes you past an old quarry, offering a glimpse into the area's industrial heritage. Elsewhere in the region, you can find historical sites like the ruins of Drum Manor house or Tullyhogue Fort.