The best walks and hikes around Holestone

The hiking terrain around Holestone is characterized by rolling farmland, forest parks, and reservoir shorelines. Most routes follow well-defined paths, often along the edges of Killylane Reservoir or Lough Neagh. You can expect gentle hills and a mix of woodland trails and open paths with broad views of the County Antrim countryside.

Yes, the area offers several accessible hikes perfect for beginners or those looking for a gentle walk. The landscape is dominated by gentle hills rather than steep climbs. Out of the main routes in the area, the majority are graded as easy, focusing on relatively flat paths through forests and along lakesides.

Many trails in the region are suitable for walking with dogs, especially in open areas and forest parks. A popular spot for dog walkers is The Fairy Glen in Rostrevor, known for its lovely riverside path. As always, please keep your dog under control, especially near farmland, and be prepared to put them on a lead where required.

Yes, circular routes are very common in the Holestone area. A great example is the Killylane Reservoir loop from Ballyeaston. This moderate 8.3 km walk provides a complete circuit of the reservoir, allowing you to enjoy the scenery without retracing your steps.

Parking availability varies by trailhead. For walks around Ballyboley Forest and Killylane Reservoir, there are designated parking areas, though they can be small. For instance, the starting point for the Killylane Reservoir loop from Ballynure has informal parking. The Holestone historical landmark itself has very limited space, accommodating only one or two cars. It's always best to arrive early, especially on weekends.

Reaching the trailheads around Holestone and the surrounding rural areas via public transport can be challenging. Most routes start in locations with limited or no direct bus or train service. Traveling by car is generally the most reliable way to access the starting points of the main hikes in this part of County Antrim.

The Holestone is a notable historical landmark in County Antrim. It's a large standing stone with a distinctive circular hole through it. Local tradition holds that it was used for betrothal ceremonies, where couples would pledge their love by holding hands through the hole. It's a popular point of interest for those exploring the area's rich heritage.

While the immediate Holestone area is more known for its reservoirs and loughs, you can find beautiful waterfalls in the wider region. Clamp Hole Waterfall is a highly-regarded spot with lovely walks, though it's located a bit further afield in County Laois. For a closer option, the River View Trail in West Virginia's Bluestone area, which shares a similar name, follows a creek with several waterfalls.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the peaceful atmosphere of the reservoir and forest trails. The combination of accessible paths, pleasant woodland scenery, and expansive views across the water and surrounding countryside are frequently mentioned as highlights.

Besides the immediate trails, the broader region offers some exceptional hiking destinations. The Ring of Gullion Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is a firm favorite, celebrated for its stunning scenery and trails with 360-degree views. For a magical woodland walk, many people visit The Fairy Glen in Rostrevor, which is particularly popular with families. The Antrim Coast and Glens Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty also provides a vast landscape for more extensive hiking adventures.

Most of the popular hikes in the area are moderately long, typically taking between 2 and 3 hours to complete. For example, a walk around Killylane Reservoir is usually around 8 km and takes just over 2 hours. The longer forest loops can extend to over 11 km, requiring about 3 hours of walking time.