Attractions and Places To See around Skerry West - Top 7

The area around Skerry West is rich in natural beauty, primarily featuring stunning waterfalls and lush forest trails. You'll find several picturesque spots, particularly within the Glenariff Forest, known for its humid microclimate and dramatic cascades.

You can explore several beautiful waterfalls. Don't miss the Inver River Waterfall, which plunges down a jagged rock face. Another must-see is Ess-na-Laragh Waterfall, where tumbling falls drop into a deep pool, accessible via an elevated boardwalk. The Waterfall and Bridge on the Glenariff River also offers a picturesque setting.

Yes, the region offers several spots with great views. Beyond the waterfalls, you can find peaceful winding country lanes just above Glenariff Forest, like Winding Roads Above Glenariff Forest, which provide delightful scenes across Antrim County and glimpses of the coastline and Irish Sea.

The area is excellent for hiking, especially around Glenariff Forest. You can find a variety of trails, including easy hikes like the Waterfall Trail via Rainbow Trail or loops around Glenariff Forest. For more options, explore the easy hikes around Skerry West.

Yes, there are several road cycling routes available. You can find routes ranging from easy to difficult, such as the 'Roadbike loop from Cloughmills' or the more challenging 'Descent Into Glenarm – Waterfoot Beach loop from Cargan'. Discover more routes in the Road Cycling Routes around Skerry West guide.

Absolutely. The region offers various running trails, particularly within Glenariff Forest and the surrounding Antrim Coast & Glens AONB. Routes vary in difficulty, from moderate loops within Glenariff Forest to more difficult ones like the 'Dungonnell Reservoir loop'. Check out the Running Trails around Skerry West guide for detailed options.

Many of the natural attractions are suitable for families. The Waterfall and Bridge on the Glenariff River is noted as family-friendly, offering a picturesque setting. The well-developed trails around the waterfalls, such as those leading to Inver River Waterfall, are generally accessible for families to enjoy together.

Visitors particularly appreciate the natural beauty and tranquility of the area. The impressive waterfalls, the lush forest environment, and the well-maintained trails are frequently praised. Many enjoy the opportunity to immerse themselves in nature and capture stunning photographs of the cascades and scenic landscapes.

While Skerry West itself is a rural townland, public transport options to the broader Glens of Antrim area, where many of these attractions are located, can be limited. It's often advisable to travel by car to access the trailheads and specific points of interest, especially for flexibility in exploring the various natural sites.

Within Glenariff Forest Park, where many of the waterfalls are located, you can often find facilities including cafes or restaurants. For example, near the Inver River Waterfall, there is a restaurant with a beautiful outdoor terrace. For more options, you might need to venture into nearby towns like Ballymena.

The waterfalls are often at their most impressive after periods of rain, which can occur throughout the year in County Antrim. Spring and autumn offer lush greenery and vibrant colours, making them particularly scenic. Summer provides milder weather for outdoor activities, though trails can be busier. Winter walks can be beautiful, but conditions might be colder and wetter.

Generally, forest parks and outdoor trails in County Antrim are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash. It's always a good idea to check specific park regulations before visiting, but the natural trails around the waterfalls are typically welcoming to well-behaved dogs.