Explore

The Botháns are nestled on Northern Ireland’s breathtaking Causeway Coastal Route. 

There is so much to do, taste and explore here – this page could be a whole website. 

Below are some highlights, but we’d also recommend  visiting Explore Causeway Coast and Glens and Discover Northern Ireland for more ideas for adventures during your stay.

  • A stone building with a dome roof sits atop a grassy cliff overlooking a beach and ocean at sunset, with dramatic cloud-filled sky.

    Mussenden Temple

    This stunning 18th century cliff top landmark is less than a 10-minute drive from The Botháns. It’s breathing taking coastal views are not to be missed. Set in the beautiful grounds of the Downhill Demesne, which lead onto Bishop’s Gate Gardens and the Black Glen, it’s the most beautiful place to walk and explore the history of this special North Coast gem.

    www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/northern-ireland/mussenden-temple-and-downhill-demesne

  • Aerial view of green forests, fields, and scattered houses under a cloudy sky.

    Giants Sconce

    The Botháns is set on the foothills of the Sconce Hill, home the ‘Giants Sconce’ an iron age hilltop enclosure. The ancient fort reportedly had walls that where 5metres thick and built with stones which were so large that only giants could have lifted them, hence the name ‘Giants Sconce’. The fortress no longer exits, but the views from the top are spectacular, worth the adventurous climb. 

    www.causewaycoastalroute.com/articlave

  • A landscape view of a lush green valley with patchwork fields, a winding river, and a distant body of water under a partly cloudy sky at sunset, with a rocky hillside in the foreground.

    Binevenagh

    We are located on the edge of Binevenagh Mountain, a basalt plateau. Binevenagh has a unique landscape and heritage. There are amazing mountain walks, forests to ramble, lakes to explore and sand dunes to adventure in. Gortmore View point boasts spectacular panoramic views across Magilligan, Inishowen, Islay and Jura in Scotland, and Mussenden Temple and Martello Tower.

    binevenaghaonb.ccght.org

  • Beaches

    When it comes to beaches the North Coast is pretty hard to beat – right on our doorstep The Botháns has Blue Flag beaches Castlerock and Downhill. A short drive and you can visit Benone, Portstewart Strand and Portrush beaches. Whiterocks, Whitepark Bay, Ballintoy and Ballycastle beaches are also a short journey by car away. That’s miles and miles of golden sands and the beautiful blue waters of the North Atlantic Ocean for you to enjoy.

    (Photo by K. Mitch Hodge on Unsplash)

  • A foggy lake surrounded by dense evergreen trees and vegetation.

    Forests

    Fancy some forest bathing or just a peaceful wander through the trees? We are surrounded by beautiful ancient forests – Springwell, Downhill, and Garvagh forests are all nearby. 

    www.visitcausewaycoastandglens.com

  • A blue paddleboard with a kayak paddle resting on it on a sandy beach near a calm lake, with trees and the setting sun in the background.

    Walks & Bike Rides

    The Botháns is the perfect base for a walking adventure, we are close to parts of the Ulster Way, North Sperrin’s Way and Sustrans route 93 of national cycle network. The Causeway Coastal Path is also an amazing walk to explore. 

    What to experience the North Coast a different way? There are so many fantastic local businesses offering something special. Here’s just a few, but if you have an experience in mind during your stay, please let us know and we can advise.

    Surfing and SUP: www.longlinesurfschool.co.uk

    Sea Sauna: www.hotboxseasauna.com

    Guided walks: www.ellamor.co.uk

    Chocolate making: www.thechocolatemanor.com

    Boat trips: www.causewayboats.com

    Outdoor adventures: www.revivenorthcoast.com

    Foodie Tours: www.causewaycoastfoodietours.com

    Horse riding: www.crindlestables.com

    Kids crafting: www.justjemima.com