Fair Head Climbing Area
Fair Head Climbing Area
Highlight • Viewpoint
Hiking
4.8
(20)
This Highlight is in a protected area
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Tips
June 6, 2023
Hiking
March 25, 2024
Hiking

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Nearby routes
Best routes near Fair Head Climbing Area

4.7
(24)
139
hikers
7.76km
02:10
150m
150m
Embark on the Fairhead Loch Na Crannóige Walk, a moderate hike spanning 4.8 miles (7.8 km) with an elevation gain of 507 feet (155 metres), typically completed in 2 hours and 10 minutes. This route, also known as the "Blue Route," guides you through rugged and varied terrain, including uneven grasses, boggy sections, and farm tracks. You will navigate natural surfaces like exposed rock and trodden earth, which can be unstable, especially when wet. Along the way, you'll encounter stunning cliff-top views overlooking Murlough Bay and panoramic coastal vistas stretching towards Ballycastle and Rathlin Island, with Scotland's Mull of Kintyre visible on clear days. The trail also passes by historic loughs, including Lough na Cranagh, known for its Iron Age crannóg.
When planning your visit, be prepared for the challenging terrain; sturdy walking boots are highly recommended due to uneven surfaces, potential boggy areas, and obstacles like exposed roots and boulders. The route traverses open land and active farmland, so you may encounter livestock. Weather conditions along the Antrim Coast can change rapidly, making preparedness essential. Take particular care near cliff edges, especially during windy conditions or in poor visibility, to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
The Fairhead Loch Na Crannóige Walk offers more than just scenic beauty; it provides a journey through a landscape rich in history and geology. You'll experience the iconic Fairhead Cliffs, Northern Ireland's tallest cliff face, soaring 600 to 650 feet above sea level. These dramatic cliffs are composed of dolerite, an igneous rock formed around 60 million years ago, featuring gigantic columns. The presence of Lough na Cranagh with its Iron Age crannóg adds a fascinating historical dimension to the natural wonders you'll discover. Keep an eye out for wild goats sometimes seen roaming below the clifftops.

4.8
(10)
66
hikers
3.57km
01:00
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

4.7
(9)
23
hikers
19.5km
05:19
280m
280m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 210 m
Weather
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Saturday 9 May
11°C
7°C
11 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 35.0 km/h
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