The best walks and hikes around Ballygowan

Yes, the area is well-suited for loop trails. Many routes explore the local forests and reservoirs without needing to backtrack. For a moderate circular hike, consider the Ballyboley Forest loop from Ballynure, which offers a pleasant walk through woodland.

The region has several great choices for families. Belvoir Park Forest is a popular spot with 75 hectares of mature trees and gentle walking trails along the River Lagan. For a shorter, accessible walk, the Forest Dirt Bike Trail loop from North Woodburn Reservoir is an easy option that's just under 4 km.

Many parks and forests in County Down are dog-friendly, but policies can vary. Places like Killynether Wood and Belvoir Park Forest are often enjoyed by dog walkers. However, you should always check for local signage, as some areas, especially those with livestock or sensitive wildlife, may require dogs to be on a lead.

While not in Ballygowan itself, a short drive will take you to some beautiful waterfalls. Crawfordsburn Country Park is a great destination, featuring tranquil woodland walks that lead to a stunning waterfall. Another option is Cregagh Glen, a highly-regarded local spot with a lovely trail that follows a river through a wooded glen.

The area is rich with excellent parks and reserves. Some of the most popular places for hiking include:

• Divis and the Black Mountain: A top-rated spot offering panoramic views over Belfast and the surrounding landscape from its well-maintained nature trails.
• Belvoir Park Forest: Known for its mature woodlands and peaceful paths along the River Lagan.
• Killynether Wood: Offers several loop trails with fantastic views towards Strangford Lough.
• Cregagh Glen: A beautiful trail that follows a stream up through a wooded glen, perfect for a shorter, scenic walk.

The terrain is quite varied. You'll find a mix of well-maintained forest paths in places like Cairn Wood, shoreline trails around Strangford Lough, and rolling hills with some steeper sections, such as the climb to Scrabo Tower. Most routes are on dirt paths, gravel tracks, or through woodland, with very few technical or difficult sections.

There are over 20 hiking routes to explore in the immediate vicinity of Ballygowan. The selection includes 8 easy walks perfect for a casual day out and 12 moderate hikes for those seeking a bit more of a challenge.

The hiking routes around Ballygowan are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the beautiful woodland scenery, the stunning views over Strangford Lough, and the variety of well-marked trails available.

Parking availability varies. Popular locations like Divis and the Black Mountain have dedicated car parks, but they can fill up quickly, especially on weekends, so arriving early is recommended. For smaller trails or those starting from roadsides, parking can be limited. It's always a good idea to plan ahead.

While most trailheads are in natural settings, the nearby towns and villages like Ballygowan, Comber, and Newtownards offer a good selection of pubs and cafes. After a hike around Scrabo Tower or Killynether Wood, you'll find plenty of options in Newtownards for refreshments.

The views are one of the highlights of hiking here. From the top of Scrabo Hill, you get panoramic vistas across Strangford Lough and the Ards Peninsula. Coastal paths offer serene waterside scenery, while forest parks like Killynether Wood provide beautiful woodland landscapes with occasional viewpoints looking out towards Belfast.