Gortmore Viewpoint

The drive up to Gortmore from Downhill is exciting to say the least. Low gear and a very steep road with blind bends make it a road to be careful on.
Eventually it is worth it when you reach the viewpoint. There are stunning views over to Donegal, up Lough Foyle towards Londonderry and down the North Coast as far as the Giants' Causeway.
Even on a warm calm day at sea level the wind at Gortmore is keen and cool.

We were pointed out the old air bases, Donogal and the coast. The views were clear and walk about easy. Our guide made sure we saw everything.

Just the most spectacular viewpoint. Definitely worth a detour! Driving is a bit hairy at times but it all adds to the excitement!

Travelling from Castlerock leave the A2 at Downhill and take the steep, twisting road on the left known as The Bishops Road after Hervey, Bishop of Derry (suitable for cars, light vans, cyclist and walkers. The views all along the road are excellent and at Gortmore spectacular. It is worth going along the path to the viewing point clinging to the cliff edge. There are views along and across the Foyle Estuary towards Derry and Donegal, especially the Inishowen Peninsular, back towards The Antrim Coast as far as Fair Head and on good days across the the Scottish Islands. Travel a little further along the road to the Leighery Road and follow the signs for Binevenagh Forest and Lake for more excellent views - the last 1.6 miles are along an unmade forest track.

We were somewhat surprised by this. It is a little off the beaten track, but we spied an interesting looking road heading inland from Downhill, and this is where it led.

What a surprise when we got to Gortmore lookout: a couple of vantage points, plenty of parking and stunning views across into the Republic.

Great views of Benone, Donegal, Castlerock beaches and Scotland on a clear day from the very high clifftop. Worth a visit.

Picked the only sunny day in January and the views over across to Donegal are literally breathtaking and it's one of best things I've ever experienced in NI.

Amazing view with good parking. View can be sen from your vehicle as well as from a choice of viewpoints close by.

If you find yourself in the Castlerock area, make the effort to drive up the steep Bishop’s Road (about 4 miles) to get up to this beautiful viewpoint.
It was recommended to me by the lovely lady in the Temple Cove Coffee Bar and I’m so pleased I took her advice.
This isn’t a place you want to go to if you want glitz and glamour - it simply offers wonderful countryside and incredible panoramic views.

its a great drive up the hill from dowhill beach, quite exhilarating.
Amazing views all around we could see over lough Foyle to Donegal.
Quirk little statue above the road