These hills are made up in part from lava, now hardened into the rock basalt, that erupted here 60 million years ago. The upland habitat is a mosaic of grassland, upland heath and bog and home to many species of wildlife. The site is significant to biodiversity with Red Grouse, Skylark, Snipe and other upland breeding birds, Irish hare are often seen, thirteen species of Waxcap fungi have been recorded and Marsh Fritillary.
You can explore the Belfast Hills by entering the National Trust access point off the Divis Road.
The National Trust, Divis Warden (028 9082 5434)
