A ferry from Ballycastle will take you to Rathlin Island, which is Northern Ireland's largest offshore island and located six miles off the Antrim coast.
Renowned especially for bird watching, Rathlin is eight miles long and less than one mile wide and, with a population of under 100 and very few cars, it has an away-from-it-all atmosphere that is becoming increasingly hard to find.
Perfect for walking, sea fishing and sub-aqua diving, it appeals to visitors who like to get up close and personal with nature, and offers an opportunity to explore the geology, archaeology, local and natural history of an island in a wild location.
Owned by the National Trust and leased to the Rathlin Development and Community Association, this handsome listed late Georgian gentleman’s house is managed by Brian and Genevieve McLernon who are well known in County Antrim hospitality circles.
Overlooking Church Bay, there is an attractive, slightly spartan, style about the long slim building and its simple whitewashed exterior. It dates back to the 1760s and has recently been completely restored and refurbished; each bedroom reflects an era of the building and most have a wonderful sea view.
Daytime food for island visitors is provided at the charming Lighthouse Café, and the Island Restaurant offers evening meals nightly for residents - also open to non-residents, by reservation, at weekends.
The view out over the little harbour and pier with the ferry going to and fro is lovely, and you need never miss the ferry as you can see it arrive and saunter down just as they slip the ropes.
