The bustling city of Larnesits on the east coast of CountyAntrim in Northern Ireland andhas been a busy sea port for over 1000 years. Passenger ferries make thejourney from Scotland to Larne throughoutthe year, and it also has excellent road and rail links to Belfast, the capitalcity. The river Inver runs through Larne,and the harbour marks the starting point of the Antrim Coast Road, a 39 mileroute which offers spectacular views and driving.
Activities in Larne
The city of Larneand the area beyond offer activities ranging from strenuous sporting endeavourto the relaxation of bird spotting.
There are three golf courses nearby, all of which allownon-members to play, and which provide a challenge made to fit varying degreesof skill. The Cairndhu Golf Club is an 18 hole coastal course with stunning views towardsScotland, whilst Larne Golf Coursesits at the end of the Islandmagee peninsula combining 9 holes with yet moresea views. For those wishing to simply dabble, on the other hand, Carnfunnock Country Park is a 9 hole, par 3 course which allows visitors to hire clubs.
The fishing on offer in Larneis rich and varied, mixing the chance to cast a line off the many outcropsalong the coast with opportunities to charter boats and try sea fishing for thelikes of cod, mackerel and herring. Glenarm River, on the other hand, allowsvisitors to book rods and try to catch the salmon, brown trout and sea troutwhich swim there, whilst Raloo Trout Fishery and Killylane Reservoir also offerangling opportunities throughout the year.
The wide open spaces and rugged coastlines of Larne offer the perfect backdrop for abracing horse ride. Equestrians of all standards can visit the local ridingcentre and riding school to either hone existing skills or have their first goat pony trekking.
The waters around Larneoffer the ideal environment for diving and exploring the sea life on view,which can include whales, otters and dolphins. The Maidens, meanwhile, twosmall islands 13 miles off the coast, are home to a colony of seals.
Carnfunnock CountyPark is just 3.5 miles away from Larneand offers a place to camp out or stay in a caravan. Other activities on offerin the park include clay pigeon shooting, orienteering and a chance to get lostin a maze the shape of Northern Ireland.
Places of Interest
There are several beaches within easy travelling distance ofLarne. The aptly named Sandy Bay is a small beach within Larne itself, whilst Ballygallyis just 5 miles north. This is a beach which has won awards for cleanliness andis therefore ideal for those wishing to go swimming.
The accommodation on offer in Larne runs the gamut from cosy guesthouses to luxury hotels, andvisitors can choose between a countryside residence and one overlooking thecoast. Those of a more independent mind-set might wish to rent self-catering accommodation and take advantage of thefood and drink on offer along Larne Main Street and at the Laharna Retail Parkor take their pick from the produce available every Wednesday at the traditionalmarket that is held at Larne Market Yard.
