Off the Causeway Coast from Ballycastle, Rathlin Island place to go for a fix of windswept beach walks surrounded by seabird colonies. We’ve got the lowdown on when to visit, what to see and the island’s best bar (hint: there’s only one).
12 October, 2020
Rathlin Island, Northern Ireland
This is the ideal isolation island. With more seabirds than
souls (the population of the island is about 150 people), this is
where we’re heading for a digital detox and complete reboot.
Work-from-home burnout? Never heard of her.
Shrouded in medieval myths and Gaelic folklore, this tiny isle
hovers 6km off of the coast of Ballycastle and 17km from Scotland, almost like a stepping stone – albeit one
for the giants who once frolicked on the causeway farther west.
The coastal views – dolphins are regularly spotted frolocking
around here – are the island’s main draw and are best enjoyed by
bike. Hire one from Soerneog View Hostel or bring your own on the
ferry.
As expected, an island this size has little in the way of
extracurricular activities, so if you’re not a fan of long,
blustery walks and birdwatching, we’d stick to weekend breaks in
Belfast.
The “upside-down” lighthouse. It’s part of the Great Lighthouses
of Ireland trail and much cooler than it sounds, trust us – and a
great viewing platform for those seabird colonies. Head to Mill Bay
afterwards to spot seals dozing on the stony beaches.
We’re lusting after the views from this one-bedroom loft.
You’ll want to have coffee and cake at The Water Shed Café
before heading back to your digs to cook up a fish stew laden with
the day’s catch.
The one and only watering hole on the island is McCuaig’s Bar.
It’s good craic and serves a mean fish and chips.
Someone who you wouldn’t mind being stranded on a desert island
with. Sure, it’s not quite Castaway but it’s not far off.
April
to July
will give you the best chances of seeing Northern Ireland’s seabird
colony, but if you visit in October,
you’ll feel as if you have the island to yourself.
You practically have to peel this Prada waterproof off us at the moment.
The island is reachable only by ferry. Catch it from
Ballycastle. Book here.
