For many people, the summer holidays can be an opportunity to explore outdoor activities and places they may have never been before.
With some warm and dry weather arriving in recent days, many people will want to spend their days outdoors walking in some of the county's fantastic parks and trails.
Here are some of the best walks in the county, perfect for spending summer days in.
Read more: Derry Girls fans will be able to make their own cream horn on new food tour
- Ness Woods Country Park
Ness Wood contains one of the highest waterfall in Northern Ireland. The Country Park is 55 hectares of woodland alongside open parkland which extends along both sides of the Burntollet River. There are over 7km of stunning woodland and riverside walks including a magnificent waterfall walk.
- Roe Valley Country Park, Limavady
This scenic and tranquil park is located on the outskirts of Limavady and offers spectacular riverside views and woodland walks. The riverside walk is perfect for families, dog walkers and experienced walkers. This picturesque park is also the main habitat to a number of animals which include foxes, badgers and otters
- Banagher Glen
Banagher Glen provides a mix to delight walkers travelling through the steep wooded Banagher Glen, one of the oldest ancient oak woodlands in Ireland to Altnaheglish Reservoir and Banagher Dam. Banagher Glen walk is a firm favourite to spend an afternoon in all weathers.
- Binevenagh
County Derry's Binevenagh is a sight to behold, with panoramic views stretching across Lough Foyle, the Roe Valley, Inishowen and even to the west coast of Scotland. While cars can be driven up to the manmade lake at the top of Binevenagh, there is space for parking at the bottom for those who wish to walk up instead.
- Muff Glen Forest, Eglinton
Muff Glen Forest just outside of Derry city contains 34 hectares of mixed woodland, all of which straddles a valley alongside the Muff River. The forest provides a welcome retreat for the local residents of Eglinton and visitors from surrounding areas. This is a scenic circular walk through the woods with some steep steps and a waterfall.
- Garvagh Forest
Covering 200 hectares, Garvagh forest is situated on the Western outskirts of Garvagh, with trees from over 80 years old to those only planted at the turn of the century. In the forest lies the Garvagh Pyramid, created as a burial chamber for Lord Garvagh, but never used. The forest is home to a range of walking, cycling and new mountain bike trails to enjoy.
READ NEXT:
- NI woman explains how 'Derry Death Cafe' experience has helped change her outlook on life
- Derry bin collection delays and huge rubbish piles an option if pay increase demand not met, says union
- Virtual reality technology to showcase best of Derry history at the upcoming festival
-
Derry woman who dedicated life to charity after son's plane death honoured
To get the latest breaking news from Co Derry straight to your inbox, sign up to our free newsletter.
