The best walks and hikes around Mullindress
4.6
(71)
412
hikers
7
hikes
Hiking around Mullindress, located on Rathlin Island, offers trails across a distinctive landscape characterized by rugged coastline, dramatic sea cliffs, and tranquil natural beauty. The island's geology features towering limestone and basalt cliffs, reaching up to 470 feet in places, and diverse habitats including wild heathland, meadows, and woodlands. Mullindress is situated within the Antrim Coast and Glens Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, providing varied terrain for outdoor activities.
Best hiking trails around Mullindress
- The most popular hiking route is…
Last updated: June 25, 2026
4.5
(21)
107
hikers
9.18km
02:28
80m
80m
Embark on the Rathlin Island Roonivoolin Walk, a moderate hiking route that takes you along the rugged coastline of Northern Ireland's only inhabited offshore island. You will cover 5.7 miles…
4.6
(21)
104
hikers
13.7km
03:44
200m
200m
Embark on the Rathlin Trail, a moderate 8.5-mile (13.7 km) hike on Northern Ireland's only inhabited offshore island. This route, which takes around 3 hours and 44 minutes to complete…
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3.0
(1)
10
hikers
23.3km
06:19
280m
280m
Embark on the Rathlin Trail & Roonivoolin Walk for a challenging 14.5-mile (23.3 km) hike across Rathlin Island, where you'll gain about 915 feet (279 metres) in elevation over approximately…
4.8
(9)
52
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
12
hikers
5.70km
01:30
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Very short route (2 km), suitable for everyone, but suggestive: it crosses meadows and then skirts a small marshy area and a coast where you can spot many typical animals and flowers that create a great atmosphere. Several benches to stop, really relaxing.
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Lovers of authentic and picturesque lighthouses will get their money's worth here! The Rathlin East Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse built in 1856.
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This is an excellent lookout point to view the east leg of Rathlin, Rathlin harbour and across to the Northern Ireland coast. There are two large picnic tables here, and it's easily accessible for families with kids.
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Rathlin Island, an island between Ireland and Scotland, can only be reached by sailors within a narrow time window, outside of which it gets bumpy because of the races and overfalls. About 100 people live here, some of whom we met yesterday in the pub. If you want to move here, you have to accept a poll and a vote from those who already live here, I don't know whether that will take place in the pub or the church.
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The building was built by the Gage family in the mid-1700s, it was used as a warehouse for the seaweed. There was also a person here to keep the accounts and operate the scales. The house was also used to store grain and other agricultural products. Trade was mainly with Scotland and the seaweed was exchanged for coal as fuel was scarce on the island. The building later became a music, dance and theater venue and therefore remains a special place on the island. The building has been rebuilt again and again over the past 200 years, the traces can be seen.
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There is a sea lion colony by the cliffs before and after the ruin. But you are very shy.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Mullindress?
There are 7 hiking trails around Mullindress, located on Rathlin Island, offering a range of experiences from easy strolls to more challenging treks.
What are the difficulty levels of hikes in Mullindress?
Mullindress offers a variety of trails to suit different abilities. You'll find 3 easy routes, 3 moderate routes, and 1 difficult route, ensuring options for most hikers.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while hiking around Mullindress?
Hiking around Mullindress means exploring Rathlin Island's unique geology, characterized by rugged coastlines, dramatic sea cliffs reaching up to 470 feet, and diverse habitats including wild heathland, meadows, and woodlands. The island is part of the Antrim Coast and Glens Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Are there any easy or short walks suitable for a relaxed outing?
Yes, for a relaxed outing, consider the The Kelp Store – Mill Bay Beach loop from Rathlin Island. This easy 3.5-mile (5.7 km) trail takes about 1 hour 30 minutes and leads through coastal areas, offering pleasant views.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions to look out for on the trails?
While hiking, you can discover several significant landmarks. The RSPB West Light Seabird Centre is a must-see for its seabird colonies, especially puffins from April to July. You might also spot the distinctive lighthouses, such as Rue Point Lighthouse, and historical sites like the Kelp House.
Can I find circular hiking routes in Mullindress?
Yes, there are circular options available. An example is the View of the Lighthouse – Rathlin East Lighthouse loop from Rathlin Island, an easy 3-mile (4.9 km) route that offers views of the East Lighthouse.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Mullindress?
The best time to visit Rathlin Island for hiking is generally from April to July, when the seabird colonies, including puffins, are most active at the RSPB West Light Seabird Centre. The weather is also typically milder during these months, making for more enjoyable walks along the rugged coastline.
Is Mullindress suitable for dog-friendly walks?
Rathlin Island, including the Mullindress area, is generally welcoming to dogs, but it's crucial to keep them on a lead, especially due to the abundant wildlife, ground-nesting birds, and livestock. Always check local signage for specific restrictions on certain trails or nature reserves.
How can I get to Mullindress and the hiking trails?
Mullindress is located on Rathlin Island, which is accessible via a ferry service from Ballycastle on the mainland. Once on the island, you can explore the trails on foot, or utilize minibus tours and bicycle hire options available to reach different starting points.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Mullindress?
The hiking trails around Mullindress are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 50 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the dramatic coastal views, the tranquility of the island, and the abundant wildlife spotting opportunities, especially the seabirds.
Are there any challenging hikes for experienced trekkers?
For experienced trekkers seeking a challenge, the Rathlin Trail & Roonivoolin Walk — Antrim Coast & Glens is a difficult 14.5-mile (23.3 km) route. This extensive trail combines two significant island walks, offering comprehensive views across Rathlin's varied terrain.
Where can I find the best viewpoints for photography?
Rathlin Island offers numerous stunning viewpoints. The towering limestone and basalt cliffs, particularly along the western and northern coasts, provide breathtaking vistas. The area around the RSPB West Light Seabird Centre is renowned for its panoramic sea views and wildlife photography opportunities.
Most popular routes around Mullindress
Most popular attractions around Mullindress
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