15 magical sunrise/sunset spots across Northern Ireland
You know how much we love a good sunset snap 📸
There is something incredibly powerful about watching a new day dawn, particularly if you’re viewing it in a unique beauty spot.
From the warm red colours to the dancing shadows, there's so much to love about getting up that little bit earlier to capture that perfect shot.
In fact, some places along our NI coastline are known worldwide for epic sunrises and sunsets, but what about those spectacular hidden gems. They are sometimes the most fun ones to explore and shoot.
Come on, summer road-trips just wouldn't be complete without an insta-worthy landscape shot, right?!
We’ve selected our favourite sunrise/sunset spots across NI:
Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
Imagine the views from up there 🤯The bridge links the mainland to the tiny island of Carrickarede, this is the perfect breakfast/picnic spot!
Giant's Causeway
One of NI's most iconic landmarks, and it's easy to why! No matter the time of year, you're in for a treat if you take a trip along the Causeway Coast. Just be sure to have plenty of memory on your phone, you're going to take plenty of pics!
Slieve Binnian
WOW...totally worth the 747m hike, don't you think? Golden hour here is particularly special, but look at this sunrise above the clouds! It's worth noting, only experienced hikers should tackle this first thing in the morning...better to be safe than sorry!
Dunluce Castle
A dramatic backdrop 24/7, but its perhaps even more breathtaking in the final hours of the day. There are various car parks and lay-bys littered along the route that offer fantastic view points of this historical wonder.
Peace Bridge in Derry/Londonderry
There's something so calming about this sunrise shot of the Peace Bridge in Derry/Londonderry. The still waters and pastel colours are just beautiful.
Whiterocks Beach
Surrounded by sand dunes, limestone cliffs, enchanting caves and bold sea arches, there's so much to see and explore here.
Cave Hill
Another hike...but nothing beats that first glimpse as the busy city of Belfast starts to come alive below.
Carrickfergus Castle
A Norman castle perched on the northern shore of Belfast Lough, yes please! Just look at those colours!
Fair Head
Expect stunning coastal views towards Ballycastle and Rathlin Island and look down on the picturesque Murlough Bay. The cliff edge here is wild and beautiful.
Rathlin Island
Discover this tranquil beauty spot that continues to serve summer goals with dramatic skylines and colourful creations.
Murlough Beach, Newcastle
Stretching from the Mournes to St. John's Point lighthouse is Dundrum Bay, Murlough Beach offers flat sands and whispy dunes. Towering over the beach sits the impressive Mourne Mountains. If you time it just right, you might be able to grab the perfect shot of the sun peeping over the tip of Slieve Donard!
Dunseverick Castle
Does anyone else get Mamma Mia vibes when they look at this pic? Dunseverick Castle has a dark past, involving Viking battles and invasions back in AD 871. Today it offers a show-stopping backdrop for budding photographers out there.
Mussenden Temple
An early start to soak in views like this are oh so worth it! Perched dramatically 120 ft high sits Mussenden Temple, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Simply superb!
Titanic Quarter
Instead of hiking to the top Cave Hill, you can explore the city from another angle, street view! The Titanic Quarter has a host of beautiful backdrops, from the poignant Titanic Museum, to the rippling Belfast Lough and timeless Harland and Wolff cranes.
Fermanagh Lakes
Ancient history, unspoilt shores and dramatic scenery, what more could you want? Fire up a drone (if you've got a licence, of course) or take to the water on a kayak/paddle board. Trying to capture the true beauty of Lough Erne's impressive sunrises and sunsets can be tough...would you give it a go?
Read more:
10 breathtaking waterfall walks to explore this summer in NI
7 stylish glamping pods with private hot tubs in Northern Ireland
Unique staycation getaways in Northern Ireland your family will love this summer