Attractions and Places To See around Ballyvaddy - Top 14

The area around Ballyvaddy is rich in natural beauty, particularly within Glenariff Forest Park, often called the 'Queen of the Nine Glens of Antrim'. You can discover impressive waterfalls like Inver River Waterfall, Ess-na-Laragh Waterfall, and the picturesque Waterfall and Bridge on the Glenariff River. Another beautiful spot is Cranny Falls, located near Carnlough.

While Ballyvaddy itself is primarily a natural gateway, nearby Carnlough village offers the picturesque Carnlough Harbour, which has historical significance and was recently renovated. The Londonderry Arms Hotel in Carnlough, built in 1848, is also a notable historical inn. Further afield in Cushendun, the Old Church Centre hosts arts and heritage events.

The region offers diverse outdoor activities, especially hiking and cycling. Glenariff Forest Park provides numerous trails, including the famous Waterfall Walkway. For more structured routes, you can explore various options for road cycling, touring bicycle routes, and running trails. Find detailed routes and guides at Road Cycling Routes around Ballyvaddy, Cycling around Ballyvaddy, and Running Trails around Ballyvaddy.

Yes, many attractions are suitable for families. Glenariff Forest Park, with its Waterfall Walkway, is a great option, as many of its trails are considered family-friendly. The Waterfall and Bridge on the Glenariff River and Carnlough Harbour are also noted as family-friendly. The elevated boardwalk at Ess-na-Laragh Waterfall makes it accessible for a wider range of visitors.

While many trails in Glenariff Forest Park involve some elevation, the elevated boardwalk at Ess-na-Laragh Waterfall offers a more accessible experience. Carnlough Harbour also features wheelchair-accessible areas, providing a pleasant, easy stroll by the sea.

The region's natural attractions, especially the waterfalls, are particularly impressive after rainfall, which can occur throughout the year. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and milder weather, ideal for hiking and exploring. Autumn brings beautiful fall colors to the forests. Winter hikes can be serene, but trails might be wet or slippery.

Parking is available at the Glenariff Forest Park Visitor Centre, though a fee applies. Carnlough Harbour is also noted as having parking facilities, making it convenient for visitors exploring the village and nearby Cranny Falls.

Visitors frequently praise the stunning natural beauty, especially the powerful waterfalls and the lush, humid microclimate of Glenariff Forest. The unique Waterfall Walkway is a highlight, offering varied landscapes and photographic opportunities. The picturesque settings, like the bridge and waterfall on the Glenariff River, are also highly appreciated.

While the main attractions are well-known, exploring the smaller trails within Glenariff Forest Park can reveal quieter, less-trafficked spots. The area around Cranny Falls, just above Carnlough, offers a beautiful hiking trail through a nature reserve that can be particularly impressive after rain.

While specific public transport routes directly to all trailheads might be limited, the village of Carnlough, which is close to Ballyvaddy and attractions like Carnlough Harbour and Cranny Falls, is served by local bus routes. From Carnlough, further exploration might require walking or local taxi services to reach more remote natural sites.

The village of Carnlough, a short distance from Ballyvaddy, offers options for dining and accommodation. The historic Londonderry Arms Hotel is a notable place to stay. There is also a restaurant with an outdoor terrace not far from Inver River Waterfall within Glenariff Forest Park, providing a convenient spot for refreshments.

For runners, there are several trails available. You can find routes like the Glenarm River Path loop from Glenarm, the Black Hill loop from Scawt Hill, and the Ess-na-Laragh Waterfall – View of Glenariff Valley loop from Antrim Coast & Glens AONB. These routes vary in distance and difficulty. More details can be found in the Running Trails around Ballyvaddy guide.