Life

Gortmore Viewpoint to Hell's Hole

Area: Binevenagh Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Distance: 2.2 miles circular.

Map: Sheet 4 of Ordnance Survey of Northern Ireland Discoverer Series available from Land & Property Services www.dfpni.gov.uk/lps.

Nearest town/village to start: Bellarena.

Facilities: Car park and picnic benches on site.

Developed by: Limavady Borough Council.

Terrain: Cliff-top paths, quiet roads and open field.

Walk description: This walk takes place along cliff top overlooking Benone Beach, Lough Foyle and the Inishowen Peninsula in Co Donegal, with stunning panoramas of the coastline and countryside. Beginning at Gortmore Viewpoint beside the car park on Black's Road, be sure to look out for the impressive statue of Manannán mac Lir, the Celtic God of the sea after whom the Isle of Man is named and one of the five newly installed life-size sculptures highlighting the myths and legends of the Roe Valley's rich cultural heritage. Turn left and look for a stile to cross the fence near the cliff line.

Keep the fence line on your right heading south. In front you'll see the distinct outline of Binevenagh Mountain and the expanse of Lough Foyle.

This path leads you through the townland of Gortmore. Continue as the trail flows gently downhill through open field before reaching a small headland.

From this point you will be able to see one of the largest sand dune systems in these islands that forms part of Magilligan Special Area of Conservation as well as the classic land slips below the cliff line.

Keep following the fence line southwards until you meet an old iron gate; turn left here and follow the fence uphill a short distance as it sweeps around to meet a stile to take you onto the Bishop's Road. You will skirt past Hell's Hole, a distinctive gulley est seen from the Drumcrun Road or Seacoast.

Crossing the stile, turn left onto Bishop's Road which will lead you back to the viewpoint beside the car park.

On a clear day views extend across to Donegal and the islands of Islay and Jura off the west of Scotland.

Responsible walking: Please remember to practice the principles of 'Leave No Trace' when enjoying the outdoors in order to minimise your impact on the environment. For more information, visit www.leavenotraceireland.org.

Disclaimer: This information has been provided by WalkNI.com in association with The Irish News. Every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information. However, neither WalkNI.com nor The Irish News can accept responsibility for errors or omissions. Where such are brought to our attention, the information for future publications will be amended accordingly.

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