Scenic view along the Causeway Coast in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, showing green hills, cliffs, and blue sea on a sunny day — part of the Glens of Antrim walking area.

County Antrim – Basalt Coast, Glens, and Upland Plateau

Volcanic coastline, deep glens, and open upland ground along Northern Ireland’s north-east.

County Antrim is a coastal county of basalt cliffs, glacial glens, and upland plateau in Northern Ireland. Walking routes cross the Giant’s Causeway UNESCO World Heritage Site and follow the Causeway Coast Way and sections of the Ulster Way, linking places such as Ballycastle, Cushendall, Cushendun, Larne, and Portrush across clifftop paths, valley tracks, and high open ground between the North Atlantic and Belfast Lough.

Much of the terrain is firm but varied underfoot. Clifftop paths, coastal tracks, forest roads, valley lanes, and open moorland allow steady progress, with regular short climbs and descents rather than sustained ascent. Surfaces range from grass and compact earth to gravel and rocky ground near cliffs.

The landscape shifts between areas. The north coast around Ballycastle and the Causeway Coast is defined by steep cliffs and headlands, while the Glens of Antrim cut inland as narrow wooded valleys. Away from the coast, the Antrim Plateau opens into broader upland pasture and moorland with fewer settlements.

Towns and villages are concentrated along the coast and at glen mouths, creating natural access points for shorter walks and longer linear routes, with more remote conditions across the plateau interior.

Trails and Routes Through County Antrim

Causeway Coast Way

Linear coastal route between Ballycastle and Portstewart following cliffs, beaches, and headlands past the Giant’s Causeway and Carrick-a-Rede.

Ulster Way (Antrim sections)

Long-distance regional route using coastal paths, minor roads, forest tracks, and upland sections through the Glens of Antrim.

Glenariff and Glenballyeamon Paths

Valley and woodland walking through river corridors and steep-sided glens.

Antrim Plateau Routes

Open upland walking on tracks and minor roads across high rolling ground.

Walking Character

Basalt cliffs and volcanic headlands
Narrow wooded glens
Open upland plateau
Coastal and clifftop paths
Short, frequent climbs
Settlements focused on coast and valley mouths
Exposed coastal and high ground sections

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is County Antrim located?

County Antrim is in north-east Northern Ireland, bordered by the North Atlantic to the north, Belfast Lough to the south, and the Glens of Antrim inland.

What defines walking here?

Volcanic coastal scenery, steep-sided glens, and open plateau walking dominate, with a mix of coastal exposure and sheltered valley routes.

Are there long-distance routes here?

Yes. The Ulster Way passes through the county, linking coastal, glen, and upland sections.

Is the terrain steep?

Most climbs are short and regular. Glen sides and clifftop routes can be steep in places, while plateau routes are generally rolling.

When is the best time to visit?

Late spring to early autumn offers longer daylight and clearer conditions. Coastal and upland routes are exposed to wind year-round, and paths can be wet after rain.