Coleraine District is situated in County Londonderry, in the Northern part of Northern Ireland, with mostly hilly landscape, perfect for agriculture. It is bordered by Moyle, Ballymoney, Magherafelt and Limavady district, as well as by the Atlantic Ocean. You may have heard that the Irish are friendly and witty people, and you heard right. Hospitality is present whether you are at someone’s home or in a hotel; they will treat you as a friend.
There is an old legend that says that if you turn away a stranger, it will bring bad luck upon the household. Although many other superstitions were left in the past, this one has become more of a tradition. In the past, the front doors of the houses were left open during meal times so that any traveller that passed by could enter and enjoy a delicious meal before they continued their journey. So here are some places where you will feel like a guest of honour: Ardtara Country House, Manor Hotel Ballymoney, Tullyglass House Hotel, Adair Arms Hotel, Gortin Glen House, Inn on the Coast. You may also want to consider Adelphi Portrush, The Oakdene, La Quinta Inn & Suites, Hampton Inn, Days Inn & Suites, Lodge Hotel, Premier Inn and The Bushtown Hotel.
The unspoilt environment of the island, the great mild climate produced over time quality food: seafood, lamb, beef, dairies, vegetables and fruit, they are all among the best in the world. The Irish are particularly famous for being Europe’s greatest source of eels. The traditional dishes include the famous Ulster Fry breakfast, champ (mashed potatoes with butter and fried spring onions), Irish stew (meat, potatoes, carrots and onions), Dulse (seaweed snack). Try the potato bread farl, potted herring, Guinness pie, butcher’s sausages, pasties (made from sausage meat, onions and mashed potatoes) and boxty (a starchy potato cake). You can try as many of these as you want at the following restaurants: Harbour Bar, Mermaid Kitchen and Bar, The Quays Bar, Union Bistro, Crave, Ocho Tapas Bistro, The Boatyard. Don’t miss The Vines, Duck Pond Tea Room, McLaughlin’s Corner and Arbutus on the Green. There is also a food festival you can attend, where you can meet the producers and buy fresh stuff right from the source: Flavours of the Foyle Seafood Festival, a two-day event organized in July.
Northern Ireland has many beautiful places you should consider visiting and this part of County Londonderry makes no exception. You can begin the cultural part of your journey to Mussenden Temple, where you will admire the monument and also enjoy an impressive view of the sea, the meadow and the village. The Downhill Demesne & Hezlet House is an 18th century fortress, with a breathtaking view and imposing structure.
Castlerock Beach is an escape haven, with golden sand, playful waves and a fantastic view no matter the season. Coleraine Walk is a historic walking area, with a nice spot if you want to watch the River Bann and a forest that because a real jewel in autumn. Don’t miss out the chance of visiting Mount Sandel Mesolithic site. The records show that it is the oldest human settlement in Ireland, as the carbon dating indicated it was 9000 years old.
Whether you are an experienced rider, a beginner or simply looking forward to trying new things, the Hill Farm Riding Stables are perfect for you. The stables are located in the beautiful countryside; the team is friendly and willing to teach you new things. Maybe you will discover a new hobby. Feel alive and free as you go horseback riding on the beach and competing with the waves.
Another cool thing to try, especially if you are travelling with kids is a camping trip, and we recommend the Temple Springs Fishery in Garvagh. Set up a tent, enjoy the silence and catch your dinner! At night, light up a fire, cook the catch of the day, roast some marshmallows and make s’mores and tell stories with family and friends.
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