Blog (April 2021) - Visit Mourne Mountains

Following the government announcement restrictions are starting to ease.  The regulations for the easing of restrictions from 23 and 30 April 2021 have now been published and 24 May 2021 was announced for the reopening of other accommodation and the hospitality sector in Northern Ireland. If you're planning your next staycation or thinking of coming to Visit Mourne for a great day out, here are some suggestions on what's open.

The Mountains of Mourne and the Ring of Gullion are truly majestic. When you come to visit us, we want you to enjoy them as much as we do. We would ask you to be mindful of how and where you park, making sure that the people who live and work in the area can go about their business while you enjoy their locality.

Gardening enthusiasts will love this wee corner of the world. The Mourne Mountains and Ring of Gullion is already something of a paradise to begin with, but over the years its spectacular charm has inspired green fingered pioneers who have worked with the landscape to carve out some sparkling displays of colour and beauty.

The Mourne Mountains and Ring of Gullion is one giant adventure park and for teens who like to get out and about, it is a great place to challenge yourself. The demand for outdoor pursuits has really taken off over the last few years and this part of the world has responded with an unbelievable array of exciting pursuits and activities. So whether you want to abseil down a mountain, cycle the face of a hill or paddle the rapids of a river, this area has it all.

The people of Mourne, Gullion and Strangford aim to embed the ethos of sustainability throughout the community.  The region is recognised as a UNESCO Global Geopark - a place of unique landscape and cultural heritage. Crucial to this recognition is sustainability in tourism around Mourne, Gullion and Strangford and there are many great places who are only too willing to do their bit for the love of the area and its future generations.

For the family that likes to get out, about and into nature, the Mourne Mountains and Ring of Gullion is quite possibly one of the top destinations in the world. Not only does the beauty of the diverse natural landscape encourage exploration and inspire wonder, but the normally benign climate and low population density means the air is always clean and fresh. At the end of your walking day, you will always feel great no matter what mountain track or forest trail your kin choose to take.

Newcastle is one of the loveliest seaside towns in the Mourne Mountains and, indeed, on the island of Ireland. Its location at the foot of Northern Ireland’s highest peak, Slieve Donard, makes it a great base to explore the area. Whether you’re just here for the day or you decide to stay longer there is plenty to do in and around the area for every kind of visitor.

The people of Mourne, Gullion and Strangford are known for their love of horses. Many of the local myths and legends feature the majestic animal and their stature and status in society continues to this day. There are several places and several great ways you can take an equestrian adventure of your own while you’re here. So saddle up and get ready to canter.

The spiritual centre of our area, Downpatrick is a beautiful and historic town built on the rolling drumlins of Lecale. One of the oldest towns on the island of Ireland, it has a long association with Saint Patrick who spent much of his time in and around the area and died here in the early 5th Century. His legacy remains and whether you come here on pilgrimage or just to simply say hello, there is a unique atmosphere in this small town that you won’t find anywhere else.

It’s all about the sea around Strangford and Lecale. An area of outstanding natural beauty, stunning views and of special scientific interest, this part of the world is a real winner for those who like their life outdoors. Whether you want to take a boat across the lough, put on your boots and trek around its shores or immerse yourself in the world of Game of Thrones® you’ll find it all in this beautiful part of our area.

The Mountains of Mourne and the Ring of Gullion are truly majestic. The views from their many peaks out across valleys, plains and seas are amongst the most spectacular in the world. When you come to visit us, we want you to enjoy them as much as we do and there are a few things we would like you to keep in mind before you take them on.

The Northern Irish are among the biggest tea drinkers in the world and there’s nothing better than a nice cuppa after a day out in our region. We are still big fans of the age-old afternoon tea tradition around here and there are plenty of places that do it with style, fanfare and lots and lots of sweet and savoury treats.