
Cave Hill rises to about 370 metres on the northern edge of Belfast and gives the city its most recognisable skyline, the basalt profile often called Napoleon’s Nose. The summit is crowned by McArt’s Fort, an Iron Age promontory enclosure, and the slopes hold five caves, a former limestone quarry, the hollow known as the Devil’s Punch Bowl and the Hazelwood and Ballyaghagan nature reserves. Four waymarked trails range from a short estate circuit to a strenuous route of several miles. Entry is free, with car parks at Belfast Castle, Upper Hightown Road and Upper Cavehill Road; Belfast Castle and Belfast Zoo sit within the park. Paths are exposed and often muddy, so proper footwear matters.