The best walks and hikes around Bellarena

Yes, the region offers some great options for families and casual walkers. The Eagle Hill loop — Binevenagh is an excellent choice, offering a relatively short and gentle walk suitable for all skill levels. Another highly-regarded option is Roe Valley Country Park, which has well-maintained riverside paths perfect for a family outing.

Many trails in the area are suitable for dogs, but it's always best to keep them on a lead, especially near farmland and cliff edges. Roe Valley Country Park is a particularly popular spot for dog walkers, with plenty of space and designated bins. Always be prepared to clean up after your pet to keep the trails beautiful for everyone.

For hikes on Binevenagh mountain, the main car park is located at the top via the Binevenagh Scenic Route off Leighery Road. This provides direct access to the lake and several trails. Another option is the Gortmore View Point car park, which is the starting point for cliff-top walks with stunning views.

Yes, Bellarena has a train station which provides good access to the area. From the station, you can walk through Ballycarton Forest to begin your ascent of Binevenagh. This makes it a convenient option for those looking to explore the region without a car.

Many routes along the Binevenagh cliff edges provide spectacular panoramic views. The View from Binevenagh Cliffs – View from Binevenagh Hill loop from Limavady is specifically focused on maximizing these vistas, offering breathtaking sights across Lough Foyle, Magilligan, and towards County Donegal.

The difficulty varies, with options for everyone. There are a couple of easy walks, but the majority of the trails are rated as moderate, requiring a reasonable level of fitness. These moderate hikes, like the Bineveneagh loop via North Sperrins Way — Binevenagh, often involve significant ascents to reach the viewpoints. There are also a couple of challenging routes for more experienced hikers.

The trails around Bellarena are highly regarded by the komoot community. Hikers frequently praise the stunning scenery, especially the dramatic cliffside views and the serene atmosphere of the forests. The well-marked paths and the variety of routes are also commonly mentioned as highlights.

Yes, there is. The Binevenagh Hill and Lake loop — Binevenagh includes a circuit around the picturesque artificial lake at the top of the mountain. It's a popular route that combines forest scenery with tranquil waterside views.

Absolutely. Most of the popular routes in the area are loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same place without retracing your steps. A great example is The Viewpoint of Binevenagh Hill loop — Binevenagh, which takes you on a scenic circuit to some of the best viewpoints.

Sturdy hiking boots are essential due to the uneven and sometimes steep terrain. The weather can change quickly on the exposed clifftops, so it's wise to wear layers and bring a waterproof jacket, even on a clear day. The wind can be strong at the summit.

There are over 10 designated hiking routes to explore around Bellarena. These trails cover a range of distances and difficulties, from short, easy strolls to more challenging all-day hikes, primarily centered within the Binevenagh Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

While Bellarena itself is small, the nearby town of Limavady offers several options. You can find traditional pubs and cozy cafes there to relax and refuel after your walk. Roe Valley Country Park also has a tea room, which is a convenient option if you are exploring the trails in that area.