Even though Glenoe Waterfall is listed on the National Trust website it doesn’t feature in the members guidebook nor is it signposted very well from the main coastal road. We knew of its existence from hearsay and followed directions to Glenoe village and then picked up small sign posts marked ‘waterfall’. You could drive right past its location outside the village of Glenoe, as it’s hidden within deep green foliage.
When we found a small car park the only thing that gave its location away was the noise of the thunderous water splashing onto the rocks below. We eagerly traced the footpath around the hillside as overgrown ferns slapped against our legs. As we approached a watery haze filled the air and we laid eyes on it for the very first time.
It was truly an amazing sight. When we visited it was deserted, nobody was around, no tourists, no locals, all was still apart from the raging water thundering down. This walk has many steps and they meander up and down the sides of this moist valley to enable walkers to get good views of the waterfall.
The waterfall is in a deep gorge and at the top of the steep brae is St. Columbas Church, with views of the valley from its grave yard as it follows the hillside. It was well maintained with anti-slip wooden steps, handrails and a bridge, however nearer the water there was no safety fence, so my mummy gripped my hand with all her might as we neared the water’s edge.
Watch our video to see the beautiful scenery.
The National Trust was responsible for carrying out vital works to upgrade the path running from the car park to the waterfall and replaced the old timber bridge. Locally sourced stone and timber was used in the project and merged beautifully into the wooded glen setting. It was mesmerizing and the waterfall was a result of the water channels through a gorge and dropped eight meters over the falls. Tiny fairy houses were added and stuck between the rocks and we counted three while we were there. A fallen tree was on the top platform of the falls and added to the dramatic view as the sun set over the church like a back drop to a film.
If you’re in the Belfast region, and you want to quickly visit a waterfall, this one is the best bet for you. It’s a wonderful waterfall on the official Causeway Coastal Driving Route. Just remember to take your walking boots with you! Watch our video to see the dramatic waterfall. We visited in February and would love to head back in the summer.
Love Bella x
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