Top 7 Natural Monuments around Divis
Best natural monuments around Divis are situated within the Belfast Hills, featuring Divis Mountain and Black Mountain, the highest points in the area. This landscape is characterized by grassland, heathland, and blanket bog, offering expansive panoramic views across Northern Ireland and beyond. The region also contains archaeological remains, including prehistoric burial cairns and hut sites. Over 12 miles of walking trails provide access to diverse terrain and natural features.
Best natural monuments around Divis
- The most popular natural monuments is…
Last updated: May 18, 2026
Giant's Ring Dolmen
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Cave Hill
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Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park Rose Garden and Stone Monoliths
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Belfast Botanic Gardens
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Belfast Window on Wildlife (WOW)
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There are more than 100 species of birds and other wildlife to be found …
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The facility is of impressive size.
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The structure consists of a circular earthen ring with a diameter of 180 m and an area of 28,000 square meters, surrounded by an earthen rampart 3.5 m high. At least three of the five irregularly distributed gaps in the ring are intentional and possibly original. East of the center of the ring is a small passage grave with a westward-facing entrance.
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The park covers almost 130 hectares and offers a variety of landscapes - from wide meadows and shady woodlands to manicured rose and Japanese gardens. The International Rose Trials, which take place here every year, are particularly exciting. If you come at the right time, you can admire an impressive variety of roses, which are judged by international experts. But the park has a lot to offer away from the roses in bloom: whether you just want to take a quiet walk in the Walled Garden, explore the Japanese Garden or challenge yourself on the orienteering course - everyone will find a favorite spot here. A small café provides refreshments and the playground also has something for younger visitors. The park has many hidden corners that make it an ideal stop to recharge.
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As you get closer, the mystical aura of the place unfolds, with its mighty, almost circular earthen wall, which measures over 180 meters in diameter and dominates the view over the surrounding plateau. This ancient henge complex is one of the largest and best-preserved monuments of its kind in Ireland - hard to miss when you get close to Shaw's Bridge. In the center of the ring, a megalithic tomb awaits you, which tells its own story with its five supporting stones and a mighty capstone. You can literally feel the thousands of years that have passed here since ceremonies and gatherings probably took place at this place. It is impressive how the Giant's Ring has survived over time, while the wooden structures of the Ballynahatty settlements are long gone.
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This nature reserve is located in the heart of the busy Belfast Harbour Estate and offers a welcome break from the hustle and bustle of the city. On the way there, the route takes you along the lough, where you may be lucky enough to spot various species of birds. The centre itself has two observation huts and a modern visitor area with panoramic views of the lagoon. Here you can enjoy the diverse wildlife while enjoying a cup of coffee. However, the paths to the centre are sometimes muddy in wet weather, so sturdy shoes are recommended. Overall, the RSPB Window on Wildlife Centre is a worthwhile stop on your bike tour to experience nature and peace.
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With thousands of colourful flowers and plant species from around the world, the Botanic Gardens are a wonderful place to visit. The gardens opened in 1828 as a private park and welcomed the public from 1895. Belfast's beautiful Palm House conservatory pre-date the glasshouses of Kew Gardens. Its domed roof has allowed plants to grow especially tall, such as a 36-foot (11 m) lily.
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With thousands of colourful flowers and plant species from around the world, the Botanic Gardens are a wonderful place to visit. The gardens opened in 1828 as a private park and welcomed the public from 1895. Belfast's beautiful Palm House conservatory pre-date the glasshouses of Kew Gardens. It's domed roof has allowed plants to grow especially tall, such as a 36-foot (11 m) lily.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I expect to see around Divis?
The area around Divis and Black Mountain is characterized by a mosaic of grassland, heathland, and blanket bog. You'll find basalt cliffs and caves, such as those at Cave Hill and Cave Hill Cave, which contain ancient formations. The landscape also offers expansive panoramic views across Northern Ireland and beyond.
What kind of wildlife can I spot around Divis and Black Mountain?
Divis and Black Mountain are home to diverse wildlife. You might spot common bird species like snipe, curlew, meadow pipit, skylark, red grouse, greenfinch, cuckoos, owls, and peregrines, as well as buzzards. The area also supports badgers and hares. For dedicated wildlife viewing, Belfast Window on Wildlife (WOW) is a nature reserve where you can see over 100 species of birds and other wildlife, including lapwings and konik ponies.
Are there any historical or archaeological sites to explore near Divis?
Yes, the landscape around Divis is rich in archaeological significance. You can find prehistoric burial cairns, hut sites, and stone-walled enclosures, some potentially dating back to the Early Christian period. For example, Cave Hill features McArt's Fort, an old ringfort or rath, offering historical context alongside stunning views.
What types of walking trails are available on Divis and Black Mountain?
The area offers over 12 miles of walking trails for various abilities. Options include the challenging 3-mile (4.8 km) Summit Trail, the moderate 4.2-mile (6.7 km) Ridge Trail with 180-degree views, and the shorter, flatter 0.9-mile (1.4 km) Lough Trail. The 4-mile (6.2 km) Heath Trail provides views towards Slemish Mountain. For more hiking options, explore the hiking guide around Divis.
Are there options for mountain biking or cycling near Divis?
Yes, there are several routes for mountain biking and cycling. For mountain biking, you can find trails like the 'Divis & Black Mountain loop from Belfast' or the 'Cave Hill Country Park Trail'. If you prefer touring bicycle routes, options include the 'National Cycle Network Route 93: Woodburn Reservoir Loop' or the 'Comber Greenway and Cairn Wood Loop'. You can find more details in the MTB Trails around Divis guide and the Cycling around Divis guide.
Is Divis Mountain accessible for families with children?
Yes, Divis Mountain offers trails suitable for families. The Lough Trail is a shorter, flatter walk, ideal for a low-contour experience. Additionally, Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park is a family-friendly highlight with diverse landscapes, including a playground and café, making it a great stop for those with children.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible routes around Divis?
While the main trails on Divis Mountain can be challenging, Belfast Botanic Gardens offers wheelchair-accessible paths, allowing visitors to enjoy thousands of colorful flowers and plant species from around the world, including the historic Palm House conservatory.
Can I bring my dog to the natural monuments around Divis?
Many outdoor areas around Divis are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific signage for each location, especially concerning livestock grazing. Divis and Black Mountain are working landscapes where cattle can often be seen from April to November, so dogs should be kept under control, preferably on a lead, to protect wildlife and livestock.
What is the best time of year to visit Divis and Black Mountain?
The best time to visit Divis and Black Mountain is generally during clear weather to fully appreciate the panoramic views. Spring and summer (April to September) offer milder temperatures and longer daylight hours, making for more pleasant hiking conditions. However, the area can be enjoyed year-round, with each season offering a different perspective of the landscape.
Are there facilities like cafes or pubs near the natural monuments?
Yes, there are facilities available. For instance, Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park has a café. The Belfast Window on Wildlife (WOW) also features a modern visitor area with panoramic views and a café. For pubs and other amenities, you would typically find options in nearby Belfast or surrounding villages.
What are some notable viewpoints in the Divis area?
The summits of Divis and Black Mountain offer breathtaking panoramic views across all of County Antrim and beyond, reaching as far as Donegal, Scotland, Cumbria, the Isle of Man, and Wales on clear days. The Divis Summit Trail specifically highlights these expansive vistas. Another excellent viewpoint is McArt's Fort on Cave Hill, which provides sensational views across Belfast and out to Belfast Lough.
Most popular attractions around Divis
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