Divis and the Black Mountain Belfast
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Belfast City and surrounding landscapes from the accessible trails of Divis and Black Mountain.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
City lights sparkle below
Divis and the Black Mountain Belfast
Best Time
City lights sparkle below

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Belfast City and surrounding landscapes from the accessible trails of Divis and Black Mountain.
"Stunning views over Belfast City and a gorgeous walk with a nice wee cafe too!"
🚗 Park at the Top
Free car parking is available right at the start of the walk, making access easy.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Walking shoes or trainers are recommended for navigating the mountain paths comfortably.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Belfast Views
Summit
Witness breathtaking vistas of Belfast City, Harland & Wolff, and Belfast Bay from the top.

Wildlife-Rich Landscape
Trails
Explore nature trails teeming with diverse wildlife amidst a stunning mountain setting.

The Divis Cafe
Base of the mountain
Enjoy delicious coffee and unique calzones after your hike with indoor and outdoor seating.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessibility & Getting There
Trail Options & Footwear
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Divis / Black Mountain Access 6AM
🚗 Park at the Top
Free car parking is available right at the start of the walk, making access easy.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Walking shoes or trainers are recommended for navigating the mountain paths comfortably.
Black Mountain and Divis Trails
Cavehill/Black mountain sunrise walking advice.
🗺️ Choose Your Route
Three route options cater to different abilities, from gentle strolls to more challenging hikes.
☕ Refuel at the Cafe
Don't miss the cafe for post-hike refreshments like coffee and curried cauliflower calzones.
Getting to Divis/Black Mountain with no car?
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Park at the Top
Free car parking is available right at the start of the walk, making access easy.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Walking shoes or trainers are recommended for navigating the mountain paths comfortably.
🗺️ Choose Your Route
Three route options cater to different abilities, from gentle strolls to more challenging hikes.
☕ Refuel at the Cafe
Don't miss the cafe for post-hike refreshments like coffee and curried cauliflower calzones.
🌄 Hike Downhill
Consider hiking down from the Glendale park side for the best sunset views over the city.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Divis and Black Mountain for its stunning panoramic views of Belfast City and its accessible hiking trails suitable for various fitness levels. The convenient free parking and the charming on-site cafe are also frequently highlighted as positive aspects of the experience.
"It's a very good hiking spot near Belfast.
The mountain trails are not very steep and fun at the same time.
Great cafe for your after walk refreshments. Would definitely recommend the coffee and curried cauliflower calzones!"
Nilesh Giridhar
"This was a lovely walk up the mountain that offered stunning views over Belfast City.
There are three route options offered, depending on differing abilities.
The pathways are easy to navigate and lead you all the way to the top.
If you like a walk and would like to see Belfast from a different angle, this is for you.
Walking shoes or sturdy trainers will suffice.
Completely free with ample free car parking and a little coffee shop with seating inside and outside."
Sue
"Gorgeous walk. Taking the ridge trail gives you a good 15,000 steps in and you get a gorgeous view of Belfast and harland and wolf. Car park is right at the start of the walk and there’s a nice wee cafe too."
B
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
While it's possible to access Divis and Black Mountain on foot, many visitors find having a car beneficial for reaching the main trailheads more easily compared to Cavehill. There is ample free parking available at the start of the walks.
The most convenient way to reach Divis and Black Mountain is by car, taking approximately 20-30 minutes from Belfast city centre. Public transport options are limited for direct access to the mountain itself.
Yes, there is ample free car parking available right at the start of the main walking routes, making it very convenient for visitors arriving by car.
While some wider paths might be suitable for cycling, the primary focus is on walking and hiking. It's best to check specific trail regulations if you plan to cycle.
Yes, you can take a taxi to Divis and Black Mountain. Ensure your driver is familiar with the location, as it's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Divis and Black Mountain is completely free. There are no admission fees, making it an accessible and budget-friendly outdoor activity.
Divis and Black Mountain are generally open year-round during daylight hours. It's always a good idea to check local conditions or National Trust information for any specific closures or advisories.
No booking is required as there is no entrance fee. You can visit anytime during daylight hours.
While official guided tours might not be regularly scheduled, local walking groups or individuals sometimes organize informal hikes. It's worth checking local event listings.
Dogs are generally welcome at Divis and Black Mountain, but they must be kept on a lead, especially in areas with livestock or sensitive wildlife. Always follow local guidelines.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
Divis offers three main route options: the Summit walk, the Ridge trail, and the Lough Neagh side path. The Ridge trail is popular for its 15,000 steps and great views, while the Summit walk offers varied terrain.
The duration of your hike will depend on the route you choose and your pace. Shorter walks can take around 1-2 hours, while longer routes like the Ridge trail can take 3-4 hours to complete.
You can expect stunning panoramic views of Belfast City, including landmarks like Harland & Wolff, as well as vistas of Belfast Bay, the surrounding countryside, and Lough Neagh.
The pathways are generally well-maintained and easy to navigate, making them suitable for a range of abilities. Some sections, like the tarmac road to the summit, can be steep.
Yes, with three route options, families can choose a path that suits their children's abilities. The easier trails offer beautiful scenery without being overly strenuous.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a lovely cafe located at the base of the mountain, offering coffee, snacks, and light meals. It's a great spot for refreshments after your walk.
The cafe is known for its coffee and unique offerings like curried cauliflower calzones. They also typically serve other light bites and baked goods.
Picnicking is generally permitted in designated areas. It's a great way to enjoy the scenery with your own packed lunch.
The closest dining options would be back in Belfast city centre or in surrounding towns. The on-site cafe is the primary food service at the mountain itself.
Yes, the cafe at Divis offers both indoor and outdoor seating options, allowing you to enjoy your refreshments with a view.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers incredible panoramic views of Belfast City, especially at sunset when the city lights up. The ridge trail also provides stunning vistas of the landscape and Harland & Wolff.
Sunset is highly recommended for capturing the city lights. Golden hour in the morning also offers beautiful light for landscape photography.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive cityscapes and landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details in the city or wildlife.
Don't miss the view of the iconic Harland & Wolff cranes from the ridge trail. The changing light on the landscape throughout the day offers constant photographic potential.
Yes, the trails are generally easy to navigate, allowing you to stop safely for photos. Be mindful of other hikers and the terrain, especially on steeper sections.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Hikers & Walkers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trails
When planning your route, consider the direction of ascent. Hiking the summit road clockwise means a steep tarmac climb, while the path on the Lough Neagh side offers a more gradual ascent. The National Trust, which manages much of the land, often provides maps and information at the car park or online, which can be invaluable for planning your hike and understanding the different trail options. Remember to check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions can change rapidly in upland areas.
Capturing the Views
For the best photographic opportunities, sunset is highly recommended. As the day ends, the city lights begin to twinkle, creating a magical atmosphere. The golden hour light can also cast a beautiful glow over the hills and valleys. Bringing a wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the expansive cityscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for isolating specific details or capturing wildlife. Remember to be patient and allow yourself time to find the best vantage points.
The Divis Cafe Experience
The cafe provides a cozy atmosphere with both indoor and outdoor seating, allowing you to relax and enjoy the surroundings. It's the perfect place to refuel, share stories of your hike, or simply enjoy a warm drink and a bite to eat while taking in the views. The availability of refreshments makes a day trip to Divis and Black Mountain even more enjoyable and convenient.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit