Ballycastle: Glens Gateway and Island Views
Ballycastle, a vibrant seaside town nestled in a sweeping bay in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, is a fantastic and versatile stop on your motorbike tour, particularly if you’re exploring the Causeway Coastal Route or venturing into the dramatic Glens of Antrim. Its beautiful beaches, bustling harbour, and strong links to Rathlin Island offer a rich blend of activity and natural beauty.
The town is dominated by its impressive marina and harbour, a hive of activity where you can watch fishing boats and pleasure craft. From here, you can take the ferry to Rathlin Island, Northern Ireland’s only inhabited offshore island, a haven for seabirds and boasting a unique, tranquil charm (check ferry times in advance!). Ballycastle’s panoramic beach is perfect for a bracing stroll, offering stunning views of the Antrim coastline and the Mull of Kintyre in Scotland on a clear day. The historic Bonamargy Friary, a Franciscan priory dating back to the 15th century, is a short ride away and offers an evocative glimpse into the past.
Ballycastle serves as an excellent gateway to the northern Glens of Antrim, offering exhilarating rides through scenic valleys like Glenariff and Glencolmcille. It’s also perfectly positioned for accessing other iconic Causeway Coast attractions like the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, the Giant’s Causeway, and the mystical Dark Hedges, all within easy riding distance.
When hunger calls, Ballycastle boasts a great selection of eateries. The Central Wine Bar is a highly-regarded spot, known for its excellent food and welcoming atmosphere. Morton’s Restaurant is a popular choice for fresh seafood and traditional Irish dishes. You’ll also find numerous traditional pubs in the town centre, offering hearty pub grub and a lively atmosphere, especially during the famous Lammas Fair in August. Ballycastle offers a perfect blend of coastal charm, historical intrigue, and access to stunning riding routes, making it an essential and enjoyable stop on your Northern Irish motorbike adventure.
Ballycastle: Glens Gateway and Island Views
Ballycastle, a vibrant seaside town nestled in a sweeping bay in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, is a fantastic and versatile stop on your motorbike tour, particularly if you’re exploring the Causeway Coastal Route or venturing into the dramatic Glens of Antrim. Its beautiful beaches, bustling harbour, and strong links to Rathlin Island offer a rich blend of activity and natural beauty.
The town is dominated by its impressive marina and harbour, a hive of activity where you can watch fishing boats and pleasure craft. From here, you can take the ferry to Rathlin Island, Northern Ireland’s only inhabited offshore island, a haven for seabirds and boasting a unique, tranquil charm (check ferry times in advance!). Ballycastle’s panoramic beach is perfect for a bracing stroll, offering stunning views of the Antrim coastline and the Mull of Kintyre in Scotland on a clear day. The historic Bonamargy Friary, a Franciscan priory dating back to the 15th century, is a short ride away and offers an evocative glimpse into the past.
Ballycastle serves as an excellent gateway to the northern Glens of Antrim, offering exhilarating rides through scenic valleys like Glenariff and Glencolmcille. It’s also perfectly positioned for accessing other iconic Causeway Coast attractions like the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, the Giant’s Causeway, and the mystical Dark Hedges, all within easy riding distance.
When hunger calls, Ballycastle boasts a great selection of eateries. The Central Wine Bar is a highly-regarded spot, known for its excellent food and welcoming atmosphere. Morton’s Restaurant is a popular choice for fresh seafood and traditional Irish dishes. You’ll also find numerous traditional pubs in the town centre, offering hearty pub grub and a lively atmosphere, especially during the famous Lammas Fair in August. Ballycastle offers a perfect blend of coastal charm, historical intrigue, and access to stunning riding routes, making it an essential and enjoyable stop on your Northern Irish motorbike adventure.