A Jaunt to Northern Ireland.

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Editors note: This is a guest post from one of our UK readers.

Photo by eutrophication&hypoxia | Flickr Creative Commons

Putting aside Northern Ireland’s difficult past and its many battle scars, the country has moved on and has a great deal going for it, with dreamy landscapes, an exciting capital, and some unique tourist attractions that are completely unlike anything found anywhere else in the world. Before you start packing your bags, find some cheap travel insurance to cover you for your entire trip, so you can just kick back and enjoy the ride without any worries.

Belfast

Northern Ireland’s capital and largest city may not attract tourists in their droves like Dublin, but it does give the Republic’s capital a run for its money when it comes to night life. Belfast is now a stable place that has enjoyed a major revival since the end of the Troubles, transforming itself into a forward-thinking city and a favourite new city break destination. There are stacks of bars and clubs for the party crowd, and some superb restaurants for those who prefer a low key evening out.

Photo by bea y fredi | Flickr Creative Commons

In 2012, the city is ‘celebrating’ the anniversary of the ill-fated maiden voyage of RMS Titanic, the iconic ocean liner that was built in Belfast’s shipyards. ‘Titanic Belfast’, opening in April 2012, looks set to become one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city.

Giant’s Causeway

It would be impossible to write about Northern Ireland’s most impressive sights without talking about the world-famous Giant’s Causeway on the North Coast, home to some of the most striking scenery in Europe. Rugged and dramatic, it is the country’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring bizarre hexagonal basalt columns that look as if they have been man-made. Surrounding the UNESCO site, this stretch of coastline is truly beautiful – full of sandy bays, peaceful valleys, deep forests, crashing waterfalls and eerie castle ruins.

The Mourne Mountains

The landscapes of the Mourne Mountains offer an idyllic setting for getting away from it all, taking a hike, and blowing off the cobwebs after parting in Belfast. Ancient mountain tracks lead you past woodlands, rivers and lakes – and there are some good rock climbing spots if you’re up for a challenge. Slieve Donnard (852 m / 2,796 ft) is the highest peak in Northern Ireland, with some impressive views from the summit towards England and Scotland.

Derry, or Londonderry

The walled city of Derry, or Londonderry, packs in an incredible 1450 years of history, and is the only completely walled city in the whole of the British Isles. Sat on the banks of the River Foyle, Derry is Northern Ireland’s second largest city and there’s plenty to see and do there. Award-winning Tower Museum relates the city’s history, while historic architecture includes the Guildhall, St Augustine’s Chapel, St Columb’s Cathedral, and St Eugene’s Cathedral. Don’t miss the interesting Bogside Murals on the walls at ‘Free Derry Corner’, depicting a variety of events from the town’s history.

Bangor

Not to be confused with the town of Bangor in Wales, Bangor in Northern Ireland is an attractive, prosperous coastal resort in North Down. It is home to the island’s largest marina, some excellent shops, and a sheltered position that creates the sunniest, driest climate on the island. In the summer the Marina comes alive with a series of sailing events, and tourists can enjoy short boat trips into Belfast Lough. Other sights include Bangor Abbey and Bangor Castle, a 19th Century mansion now serving as the town hall and housing the North Down Heritage Center.

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*Please remember all photos on this website, unless otherwise noted, are copyrighted and property of Beers and Beans Travel Website, Nariko’ s Nest Weddings & Bethany Salvon. Please do not use them without my permission. If you do want to use one of them please contact me first because I do love to share and I would be flattered. Thanks!