Portpatrick to Port Mora beach loop
Portpatrick to Port Mora beach loop
4.8
(9)
49
hikers
Portpatrick to Port Mora beach loop
01:35
5.75km
100m
Hiking
Embark on an easy hiking adventure along the Portpatrick to Port Mora beach loop, a scenic route spanning 3.6 miles (5.8 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 318 feet (97 metres). You can expect to complete this coastal journey in about 1 hour and 35 minutes, making it perfect for a relaxed outing. The trail offers captivating views of the rugged coastline and the vast Irish Sea from its clifftop paths, eventually leading you down to the sandy inlet of Port Mora Beach. As you hike, you will also pass through a steep, wooded glen filled with ancient oak trees, providing a lovely contrast to the open sea views.
To begin your hike, head to Portpatrick, a charming village that serves as the trailhead. This village offers various amenities, which are convenient for hikers before or after their journey. Parking is generally available within Portpatrick, making access to the route straightforward for those arriving by car. The easy difficulty of this loop makes it a great choice for families or anyone looking for a pleasant, unchallenging walk along the coast.
This route stands out for its unique blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. Once you reach Port Mora Beach, you have the opportunity to explore historical caves carved into the coastline, adding an element of discovery to your walk. The trail's path through both open clifftops and a secluded wooded glen showcases the diverse landscapes found in this region, offering a rich and varied experience within a relatively short distance.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
1.28 km
Port Mora Beach
Highlight • Beach
Tip by
5.27 km
Portpatrick Harbour and Lighthouse
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
5.66 km
View over Portpatrick
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
5.75 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
1.69 km
1.47 km
1.31 km
1.21 km
< 100 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
2.40 km
1.69 km
1.65 km
< 100 m
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Elevation
Highest point (70 m)
Lowest point (0 m)
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Friday 3 July
19°C
14°C
44 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 26.0 km/h
to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route
This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I park for the Portpatrick to Port Mora beach loop?
Parking is available in Portpatrick, typically near the harbor. From there, the trail begins with steps leading up to the clifftop path.
Is the Portpatrick to Port Mora beach loop dog-friendly?
Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, as it follows clifftop paths and passes through areas with potential wildlife or livestock, it's advisable to keep dogs on a leash, especially in certain sections.
What is the best time of year to hike this loop?
Spring and summer are ideal for hiking this loop. During these seasons, you can enjoy a variety of wildflowers like spring squill, yellow rattle, and pink thrift along the clifftop sections. The weather is also generally more favorable for coastal walks.
Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee for this trail?
No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to hike the Portpatrick to Port Mora beach loop. It is freely accessible to the public.
What is the terrain like on the Portpatrick to Port Mora beach loop?
The terrain primarily consists of well-defined clifftop paths offering stunning coastal views. It includes descents into sandy inlets like Port Mora Beach and a return leg that often goes inland through a steep wooded glen with ancient oak trees and a fast-flowing burn. While generally easy, there are steps up onto the clifftop from Portpatrick harbor.
What are the main points of interest along the Portpatrick to Port Mora beach loop?
Key points of interest include the historic Portpatrick Harbour and Lighthouse, the secluded Port Mora Beach (also known as Sandeel Bay) with its historical caves (Dropping Cave, Ouchtriemakain or Monks Cave), and Port Kale (Laird's Bay), where the first telephone cable between Scotland and Ireland came ashore, marked by an interesting double octagonal building. You'll also enjoy a View over Portpatrick.
How long does it typically take to complete this loop?
The Portpatrick to Port Mora beach loop is approximately 5.75 km (3.5 miles) long and typically takes about 1 hour and 35 minutes to complete at a moderate hiking pace.
Does this loop connect with any other long-distance trails?
Yes, a segment of this route is part of the Southern Upland Way, Scotland's coast-to-coast long-distance path. This offers a taste of a larger walking adventure.
What wildlife and plant life might I encounter on the trail?
Along the coastal paths, you can expect to see various seabirds and potentially seals. In spring and summer, the clifftop sections are vibrant with wildflowers such as spring squill, yellow rattle, and pink thrift. The wooded glen features ancient oak trees, mosses, and lichens.
Are there amenities like cafes or pubs near the trailhead?
Yes, Portpatrick itself is a charming village with amenities. You'll find cafes, pubs, and accommodation options in Portpatrick, conveniently located near the start and end of the loop.
Is this trail suitable for families?
Absolutely. This loop is considered an easy hike, suitable for all skill levels and great for any fitness level. Its relatively short length and accessible paths make it an ideal option for families looking for a relaxing coastal stroll.
Comments
Want to know more?
Sign up for a free komoot account to join the conversation.
Sign up for free