Nähere Umgebung

The famous basalt columns of the Giant's Causeway, 45 minutes from the hotel, were created by a volcanic eruption some 60 million years ago. Romantics and photographers are drawn to the dramatic, misty landscape and churning seas here. Ten miles further on, Carrick-a-Rede island is a popular spot for birdwatchers. For a hair-raising experience, cross the swinging rope bridge over a deep chasm.

Take a pleasant afternoon wander around Antrim Castle Gardens, just a mile from the hotel. Created about 400 years ago, the gardens survived the fire that destroyed the castle in the early 20th century, and they have now been restored to their former glory. There are ornamental flower beds, a pleasure garden and a pond surrounded by yew trees, plus a coffee shop serving tasty delicacies.

The hotel is set within The Junction retail park, one of the largest outlet shopping centres in Northern Ireland. You can browse the rails in search of savings from big-name international brands as well as your favourite high-street labels. Make a day of it with lunch at one of the park's restaurants, and you can even get the car washed while you shop.

Set just back from Lough Neagh, the largest freshwater lake in the British Isles, the hotel is a good option for anglers, boaters and anyone wanting to explore the scenic shoreline by foot or bicycle. Irish mythology holds that the lake was created when warrior giant Finn McCool tore up a clump of earth to fling at an enemy – toast him over oysters and stout at one of the area's traditional pubs.

• Antrim Castle Gardens
• Giants Causeway
• Titanic Belfast