On the World Famous Antrim Coast
The ideal centre for touring the Glens of Antrim and the Giant's Causeway.
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Local Attractions
The Giants Causeway, Carrickfergus and Dunluce castles and the Carrick a Rede rope bridge are just a few of the attractions within easy travelling distance from the Ballygally Holiday Apartments.
Two sections of the Ulster Way, Northern Ireland's best known walking trail, are easily accessible from the Ballygally Holiday Apartments. These beautiful walks give an excellent opportunity to fully appreciate the magnificent scenery and wealth of archaeology on the Antrim plateau.
The Giants Causeway
Northern Ireland's only Unesco World Heritage Site, located on the North Antrim Coast is a "must see" on any itinerary. See over 40,000 volcanic rock formations formed some 62 - 65 million years ago and enjoy local legends of how the Giant Finn MacCool built the Causeway to retrieve his Lady Giant from Staffa in Scotland. Fifteen miles of footpaths, A temporary visitor centre, gift shop and tearooms are available on site at present and work starts on the state of the art new facility in 2010. The Giants Causeway is 48 miles from the Ballygally Holiday Apartments along the breathtaking Antrim Coast Road
Website www.giantscausewaycentre.com
Bushmills Distillery
Breaking News in 2010** Bushmills Distillery recently swept the boards at the presitigious 2010 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. As well as winning 'Best Whiskey in the World' (which of course we already knew!) Bushmills scooped 100% gold accolades in the global competition. These awards come on top of winning three ~World Whiskey Awards in London earlier in the year. Two miles from the Giants Causeway you will find the Old Bushmills Distillery and can sample the award winnning whiskey for your self.- the oldest historic distillery still operating in Ireland today. Distilling "Uisce Beatha", Gaelic for whiskey, since 1608, the distillery offers comprehensive guided tours of the distilling process and tasting of the range of whiskeys on offer. Gift shop on site.
Website www.bushmills.com
Carrick A Rede Rope Bridge
Originally erected by salmon fishermen to access the rocky island of Carrick, this breathtaking attraction is now operated by the National Trust. Located 5 miles west of Ballycastle and just 7 miles from the Giant's Causeway, the bridge is open from March to October weather permitting and provides wonderful views of the surrounding countryside. Excellent for birdwatching.
Websitewww.nationaltrust.org.uk
Dunluce Castle
A 17th Century castle, considered to be one of the most picturesque and romantic in Ireland. Sited on a rocky headland, 3 miles east of Portrush on the road to Bushmills. Visitor Centre, shop and guided tours available.
Websitewww.northantrim.com
Glens of Antrim
Ballygally Holiday Apartments, provide a wonderful base for touring the nine Glens of Antrim - an area of outstanding natural beauty. Many and varied are the attractions and places of interest in this area. Just to take one example, Glenariff Forest Park, signposted from Waterfoot, hosts a range of excellent walks alongside rivers and waterfalls and provides the visitor with breathtaking views of the Irish Sea and Scottish coastline.
Websitewww.northantrim.com/
Carnfunnock Country Park
Located approximately 1/2 mile from the Ballygally Holiday Apartments, Carnfunnock Country Park provides a range of attractions for both adults and children alike. Including 191 hectares of forest walks, BBQ and picnic sites, adventure playground, walled garden and maze "map" of Northern Ireland. There is a family fun zone, open from Easter to October with a miniature railway, 18 hole mini golf, bouncy castle, remote control boats, laser clay pigeon shooting and a nine hole golf course. Excellent events are organised at Carnfunnock throughout
the year.
Cairndhu Golf Club
Beautiful 18 hole golf course with a spectacular hill top location. Golfing enthusiasts staying at Ballygally Holiday Apartments can avail of a free round of golf (Monday - Friday) and use of a buggy. 24 hours notice required.
Websitewww.cairndhugolfclub.co.uk
Glenarm Castle
Glenarm Castle, home to the McDonnell family since the early 17th century, opens its historic walled garden and delightful tearooms to the public from May to September. The Traditional Highland Games are held on the 14th and 15th July and offer a carnival themed day out for all the family. (Unfortunately this has been suspended for 2010 but watch out for news of the 2011 event)
Websitewww.glenarmcastle.com
Horse riding
Islandmagee, just 20 minutes drive from Ballygally (16 miles approximately), has two British Horse Society approved Equestrian Centres – The Islandmagee Riding Centre and The Rainbow Equestrian Centres both open all year round. Private/group lessons and beach
rides are available.
Watertop Open Farm
A 600 acre farm located 5 miles south east of Ballycastle. A fun day out for all the family. Enjoy pony trekking, boating, walks and a chance to tour the farm on a "paddiwagon", an ex army 4 x 4 truck. Cafe facilities available.
Websitewww.watertopfarm.co.uk
Belfast Zoo
Belfast Zoo has more than 160 species of rare and endangered animals. Situated on a 55 acre site on the north side of Belfast, the zoo is easy to access from Ballygally (approximately 20 miles). Visitors can enjoy panoramic views over Belfast Lough and the surrounding countryside. Open all year round, children's playground, restaurant, picnic areas and gift shop. A truly wonderful day out for all the family.
Websitewww.belfastzoo.co.uk
Carrickfergus Castle
Beautifully preserved Norman Castle built by John De Courcy in 1180. Located approximately 15 miles from Ballygally, Carrickfergus Castle is open all year round and is a self-guiding facility with audiovisual and information boards to assist your enjoyment of the visit. Special events take place throughout the year.
Websitewww.discovernorthernireland.com