Rathlin Island

Grade: Moderate, 4½ - 9 miles on country lanes

We're returning to Rathlin to see the puffins!

I'd suggest to book the 11am and the 5pm return ferry passages. The 4pm ferry is cutting things a bit fine if you plan to walk to the lighthouse and back. Of course stay on for longer or all night if you wish!

If you've other plans for getting to the island, just be down at the ferry on Rathlin at 11.20am to go on the walk.

If you would like to go on this trip you book your own ticket on the ferry through the Rathlin ferry site (https://rathlin-ferry.com/choosedates) or call them up. BOOK EARLY TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT.

The boat costs £16 return and it's subject to availability. Senior Citizens with valid NI Smart Pass get free ferry passage. No cars go to Rathlin but there is parking in the ferry terminal at Ballycastle.

Leave plenty of time for your car/bus journey to Ballycastle harbour, aim to be there for 10:30am. Please note there is now a £5 parking charge in the carparks in Ballycastle, another good reason to car share.

The walk to the West Lighthouse is on a quiet, undulating road. It's a 4½ walk each way, taking 90-120 minutes. The pace will be moderate.

On this visit to Rathlin let's take the island bus to the west lighthouse from the ferry (£5). We can take a coffee break the West Lighthouse to allow time for those that wish the opportunity to go and look at the puffins.

We'll then walk on the Kinramer North Trail which is a 2 mile off-road trails at the north western end of the island. The views are stunning!

We can then walk back on the country road to the harbour as usual.
https://www.walkni.com/walks/rathlin-kinramer-north-walk/
http://www.rathlincommunity.org/visit#buses

If you wish to just walk to the west lighthouse and back as a linear walk then it's 4½ miles each way.

Please indicate if you want to be included on the bus reservation in your RSVP.

Wear walking boots/shoes. Bring warm, waterproof clothing. Bring a packed lunch.

Bring cash to pay for the bird sanctuary, bus and snacks, very few places on Rathlin accept cards.

Dogs on a leash please as Rathlin is a bird sanctuary and also on the boat. Consider if it's worth bringing the dog as it's a long day.

We should get back to Belfast around 7pm. Post up if you need a lift with a driver going from your area. All passengers - please be mindful of the sharp rise in petrol prices. Drivers please take passenger donations so that all is equal for everyone.

This walk costs £6 for non-members, £1 for members who have paid their £20 yearly fee.

Of course the ferry sailing will be subject to weather conditions.

See you on Rathlin!
Regards
Maria 07583-042962