The Mourne Mountains and Ring of Gullion is a paradise for walkers. For those who treat it like an Olympic sport there are of course an abundance of challenging treks over mountains and calf-stretching trails through endless forests. If, however, you prefer to take your time and smell the roses, then there are plenty of places you can do that too. You are certain to find something to suit your pace and style.
Endless Trails to Explore in Slieve Gullion
Slieve Gullion Forest Park offers a range of great forest tracks and trails to choose from. Try out one of the three Poets Trails and you’ll pass through the Creggan Glen before discovering ancient dolmens and the secrets of the Urnaí Graveyard while taking in some great views across the Ring of Gullion. Families who enjoy quiet routes, will enjoy the forest park’s Sensory Trail, the first purpose-built trail of its kind in Ireland while the short and sweet Red Squirrel Trail will bring you past oak, ash, birch and beech trees in the company of the resident red squirrels.
Gentle Slopes with Stunning views in the Mourne Area
A little further east, the five-mile Blue Lough Walk is an easy introduction to the Mountains of Mourne. This route follows gentle gradients across local tracks and pathways while still offering absolutely stunning scenery. There are a few streams to negotiate along the way so be sure to bring the boots.
Not far away, Murlough National Nature Reserve near Dundrum is Ireland’s very first Nature Reserve. There is a carefully constructed network of paths and boardwalks through the old sand dune system leading to a wonderful woodland and heath. This is home to a colourful array of butterflies and wildflowers. The walk eventually brings you down to the beautiful Murlough Beach where you can walk along the strand and enjoy the views of the Mournes emerging out of the sea.
Discover Kilbroney Park
Kilbroney Park, located in Rostrevor, is a must-visit for walkers exploring the Mourne area. The park offers a wide range of walking trails Northern Ireland is known for, from riverside rambles to high climbs with rewarding views over Carlingford Lough. The Narnia Trail is perfect for families and fans of C.S. Lewis, while the Cloughmore Trail takes you to the famous Cloughmore Stone – a glacial erratic with sweeping vistas of the surrounding countryside. Kilbroney Park walks provide an enchanting mix of natural beauty, mythology, and outdoor adventure.
Garden Walks and Forest Escapes
The Annesley Garden Walk which is currently being refurbished, begins at Castlewellan Lake in the eponymous forest park. On this gentle two-mile stroll, you’ll wander through the Annesley Garden, the National Arboretum, which includes some of the island’s oldest trees, and you’ll take in the many lakes and ponds within the forest. An easy-going wander that’s sure to clear the head.
There is a treasure trove of woodlands, plants and unusual vistas at Rowallane Garden near Saintfield This enchanting garden has grown from the 19th Century beginnings of the Reverend John Moore and his nephew Hugh Armytage Moore who wanted to create a place where you can leave the outside world behind and immerse yourself in nature’s beauty. This mix of formal and informal gardens has a range of trees, plants and shrubs from across the globe which creates quite a spectacle throughout the year.
Coastal and Loughside Rambling at Strangford Lough
Delamont Country Park on the western shore of Strangford Lough boasts over 200 acres of greenery and open spaces. With great views across the Lough to the Mountains of Mourne, this is an ideal place to get out and have a ramble in the open air with the sea as a constant companion. There are five waymarked trails to choose from ranging in distance from half-a-mile to the four-mile Longwalk Trail.
The Ultimate Destination for Walkers in Every Season
With such a choice of walking routes in Mourne Gullion Strangford you might just need to get out, take a stroll and have a think about where to start. Whether you're searching for the best walks in Northern Ireland, dog-friendly trails, or scenic forest walks, Mourne Gullion Strangford is your go-to destination for every season and every walker.
Slieve Gullion is Ireland's Mountain of Mystery. Slieve Gullion Forest Park offers walking trails, a scenic drive, an Adventure Playpark, Fionn's Giant Adventure children's story trail and a Courtyard with coffee shop.
Murlough National Nature Reserve is a fragile 6000 year old sand dune system owned by the National Trust and managed as Ireland’s first Nature Reserve since 1967. It is an excellent area for walking and bird watching.
Beginning at Castlewellan Lake this trail journeys through the Annesley Garden, National Arborteum and takes in a variety of Lakes and Ponds within the forest.
Situated on the shores of Strangford Lough in an area of outstanding natural beauty, Delamont Country Park, Killyleagh offers peace, beauty and tranquillity. The stunning views across Strangford Lough and the relaxing atmosphere make Delamont Country Park a place to enjoy that 'away from it all feeling'.
This unique garden has grown from the 19th century beginnings of the Reverend John Moore and his nephew Hugh Armytage Moore. Their vision created a place where you can leave the world behind and immerse yourself in nature's beauty.
Ann inherited her great love of the landscape from her mother, who was born on Slieve Gullion Mountain. She has practiced meditation for over 20 years & delivers immersive, mindfulness experiences, courses & retreats using meditation &the landscape.
Kilbroney Park features riverside walks and an arboretum. There is a two-mile forest drive which showcases panoramic views over Carlingford Lough. There is also a Play Park with children's play area and tennis courts, an Information area and a café all on site.
Walks though a woodland with steep climbs and hills in places
Take a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life and immerse yourself in the calming atmosphere of the forest. Let the sights, sounds, and scents of the trees and wildlife wash away your stress.
