Causeway Coast and Glens is still a staggering summer delight

From spectacular towering cliffs to endless sandy beaches and inland forests and trails, lace up your walking shoes and pack your binoculars to explore this mystical, magical region – making sure to pay close attention to be lucky enough to hear the rare cry of a corncrake or spot a pair of choughs wheeling acrobatically in the skies above.

Rathlin & The Glens

Kick off your tour on the cliff path Cushendall before exploring the sleepy and beautiful conservation village of Cushendun, one of the jewels of the Glens of Antrim, and protected by the National Trust since 1954. Stop off for tea and scones at the Corner House, before taking a winding detour on your way to Ballycastle via the rugged Torr Head, with its crashing waves and spectacular views over the Mull of Kintyre.

Alternatively, you could head inland and visit Breen Oakwood Nature Reserve, one of the last fragments of ancient oak woodland on the island of Ireland and the haunt of red squirrels, newts and dragonflies.

Once you reach Ballycastle, stock up on some local artisan produce from North Coast Smokehouse, Ursa Minor Bakery and Broughgammon Farm – if you time it right, you can find lots more at the Naturally North Coast & Glens Market on the Ballycastle seafront.

Take an early morning fishing trip or cross the Sea of Moyle by ferry to the unspoiled Rathlin Island. Once there, head south on foot or by bike to Mill Bay to glimpse some of the resident seals and the rare chough sporting over Roonivoolin Nature Reserve. You can also get the minibus to witness seabird colonies breeding, including puffins from late March until July, by the spectacular West Lighthouse, a refurbished Seabird Centre run by the RSPB.

Discover the Causeway Coast

Back on the mainland, there’s a wealth of gems along the world-famous Causeway Coast; although closed for crossing at the moment, you can still enjoy the sight of the awe-inspiring Carrick-a-rede Rope Bridge from the newly refurbished Portaneevey Viewing Point.

It’s also worth embarking on the five-mile Causeway cliff walk between Dunseverick Castle and the Giant’s Causeway, with its stunning cliffs and views over the famous hexagonal basalt rocks.

Take time to stop by Bushmills village for a browse in The Designerie and other art galleries, or enjoy some of the culinary delights at The Bushmills Inn, The French Rooms, Tartine and newly opened Market Square.

Heading west, make sure to stop off at the spectacular Dunluce Castle, perched on the edge of a cliff with the waves crashing below, before hitting the wonderful Blue Flag beach at White Rocks, near the resort of Portrush – perfect for walking and picnics.

Search for new horizons

Next stop is Portstewart Strand, a two-mile stretch of golden sand with wild pansy-dotted dunes forming the backdrop for spectacular championship links at Portstewart Golf Club.

Who can resist the freshest seafood at Harry’s Shack right on the beach as the breakers pound just metres away?

At the end of the strand is the Barmouth, a nature reserve where you can watch the waterfowl and waders that gather year-round. In the distance you will see Downhill Demesne at Castlerock, with its famous Mussenden Temple perched dramatically on a cliff top. Take a stroll on Downhill Strand before finishing your trip at Lough Foyle Trail, where you can enjoy lots more wildlife in beautiful surroundings.

For lovers of nature and the outdoors, Causeway Coast & Glens is a delight with many surprises. To plan your late summer break and book from a host of stylish hotels, friendly B&Bs or a self-catering property with a difference, go to: visitcausewaycoastandglens.com.