Taking a walk in the countryside is a great way to discover new places and enjoy the beauty of the Northern Ireland countryside. The term 'countryside recreation' covers a wide range of activities - from the general leisure activities such as walking, cycling and horse riding to active outdoor sports such as rock climbing, canoeing and orienteering
You can escape the routines of life, enjoy the peace and tranquility of the countryside, get fit, get close to nature or, perhaps for some, experience the thrill of an adrenaline sport.
Whether you are a committed hiker or a casual rambler, you can find something suited to your interests and abilities.
The beauty and variety of the Northern Ireland landscape, the compact distances and ever-changing vistas make this a wonderful place to explore on foot.
You can:
You can find information about where to walk on local websites. For more information about activities and places to visit see the Countryside Access and Activities Network, a government grant-aided website.
The new Ulster Way route loops its way around Northern Ireland and provides walkers with an opportunity to view scenery and biodiversity, encounter myth and legend and sample the local culture through all the counties of Ulster. Many partners have worked together to develop the new route which can be explored online.
There is no better opportunity to take in Northern Ireland’s spectacularly varied scenery, wonder at its wildlife and sample the local heritage.
Follow in the footsteps of St Patrick along the Lecale Way, discover the Mourne landscapes that inspired the Tales of Narnia, take in the tranquility of the Fermanagh Lakelands, enjoy the rugged Sperrin Mountains and not forgetting the amazing Giant’s Causeway.
The Ulster Way truly provides the destination for that ultimate walking holiday.
District councils in Northern Ireland are responsible for public rights of way in their own areas. If you want more information about public rights of way in your area, speak to the Countryside Officer at your local council.
Led walks are walks that are headed by trained leaders who can provide useful information and advice. Most led walks have a leader at the front and back, so you don't have to worry about getting left behind. Walk leaders can tell you how fast you should be walking in order to really benefit from your excursion.
In addition to walking clubs, you can find out about
For our countryside and outdoor beauty spots to remain the way we want them we each should try to 'leave no trace'. This means
The Leave No Trace initiative is about getting people to do the right thing even if there is no one about to see you do it. It has seven key principles:
It is really very simple - make it hard for others to see or hear you and Leave No Trace of your visit.
Environment and greener living
