Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark, located in Northern Ireland, is a unique wellness destination offering a rich combination of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural heritage. This region is ideal for those seeking physical, mental, and emotional rejuvenation. Here’s what makes this geopark a compelling wellness destination.
Natural Healing Environments
The Mourne Gullion Strangford region is known for its outstanding natural beauty and diverse landscapes. The beautiful, majestic mountains, ancient forests and cooling coastal shores, promote natural healing for the mind, body and soul. These environments offer much more than just a view. They invite you to indulge with nature and promote healing in a relaxing and peaceful way.
The Mountains of Mourne
The Mourne Mountains, with some of the highest peaks in Northern Ireland, offer visitors challenging hikes and panoramic views that can be spiritually uplifting and physically invigorating, creating an unforgettable moment of hard-earned victory.
Slieve Gullion
Slieve Gullion is an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) that offers diverse landscapes, including rolling hills, dense forests, and fascinating archaeological sites. This unique blend promotes both physical activity and cultural enrichment. Slieve Gullion park includes a scenic drive, walking trails, Fionn's Giant Adventure, and a children’s story trail, providing an immersive natural experience for all ages.
Strangford Lough
Strangford is a small, yet charming coastal village, nestled beside The Strangford Lough is known for its rich biodiversity, vibrant birdlife and scenic coastal walks that promote mental well-being through connection with nature.
The Benefits of Natural Settings for Wellness
The Mourne Mountains, Ring of Gullion and Strangford Lough areas all have a range of activities for wellness, beneficial for physical health, mental health, social welfare and overall wellbeing.
Immersing in nature can create a deeper sense of connection to the world promoting wellness, mindfulness and gratitude. Spending time in a natural setting allows people to manage their emotions more effectively and build resilience in life's many challenges.
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Wellness Activities
Outdoor Yoga and Mediation
Sisters by the Sea, based in Newcastle County Down was co-founded by sisters wanting to create a brand known to inspire, empower and uplift all types of individuals while enjoying the experience. This is a wonderful retreat focusing on wellness, nourishng your mind, body and soul. Enjoy these thoughtfully crafted products and experiences that fulfil the holisitc wellness ways in a 3-hour retreat on the lush grounds of Enniskeen Estate & Forest Spa.
On occasion you can participate in beach and outdoor yoga throughout the Mourne Gullion Strangford areas, keep an eye on the What's on section to partake in some fantastic rejuventating outdoor yoga.
Hiking and Nature Walks
The natural beauty and tranquility of walks and hikes within Mourne Gullion Strangford can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, promoting mental clarity and emotional balance for some. Getting out into the outdoors has been proven to improve mood.
Tollymore Forest Park located in Newcastle County Down, is a stunning place at the foot of the Mournes spreading over almost 630 hectares. From walking trails, rivers to spectactular views of the mountains, the perfect setting for reconnecting with nature. Offering an easy acess on foot to the higher Mourne Mountains including Slieve Donard and Slieve Commendagh for soemthing a little more challenging.
Walk the Ballyhornan Coastal Path, part of the Lecale Way. This route is approximately 6 miles in one direction and runs between Ballyhornan and Ardglass. It is a beautiful coastal trail that heads through grassy tracks along the cliff edge, taking in spectacular views over the sea with Gun Island and Isle of Man also in view. You can appreciate nature on this path whilst enjoy the crashing of the waves.
Slieve Binnian is a circular route that traverses the mountain, taking in exquisite sites including an abandoned quarrying village, and a viewpoint over the glassy Ben Crom Reservoir, Slieve Binnian is the third highest Mourne Mountain, sitting 747 metres, the natural beauty and tranquility of these areas help alleviate stress, anxiety, and depression, fostering good mental health and emotional balance.
We have lots of guides available on our website to help you on your way around our area. Check out our tour guides' blog
Or if you fancy a bit more of an immersive experience related to nature and meditation Ann Ward, founder of Xhale Mindfulness has a deep spiritual connection with nature. She has practiced meditation for over 20 years. As a result, she has created immervise, mindful experiences, courses and retreats using the gifts of the meditation and the landscape. Awaken your sense at her Forest Bathing Immersion in Slieve Gullion Forest Park. Research shows, that spending only two hours in a forest environment can boost our immune system for up to 10 days. When we spend a full day in the forest it can boost our immunity for up to 28 days.
Water-Based Relaxation
The Mourne Gullion Strangford and Lecale area is surrounded by bodies of water including rivers, loughs and coast, a perfect place for enjoying a day out on the water. These picturesque landscapes are not just a feast for the eyes but also provide thrilling and serene water-based experiences.
Researchers have found that cold water therapy helps with a lot of ailments; reducing body pain, aids in recovery, improves circulation, boosts your brain power and potential weight loss. Helps with anxiety, stress and depression. Releases your happy hormones, feeling of euphoria and achievement, all while reconnecting with nature.
Strangford Lough is a haven for kayaking and canoeing. With its diverse range of habitats, including mudflats, salt marshes, and islands, the lough is perfect for both beginners and experienced paddlers. Paddle through calm waters with the experienced guides of Clearsky Adventure, explore the various islands, and witness an abundance of wildlife, from seals to a variety of bird species.
Whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or a curious beginner, Mourne Gullion Strangford offers a plethora of stunning spots to explore. Experience a rejuvenating experience of wild swimming.
The tranquil waters of Carlingford Lough provide an ideal setting to explore the scenic beauty of the Mourne Mountains reflected in the sea.
Book your experience with Geology Rocks Adventure Tourism.
Wild Foraging and Nature-Based Crafts
Immersing in nature helps foster a connection with the environment, which has been shown to enhance overall well-being and happiness so maybe try out some wild foraging and nature crafts on your trip.
You can experience wild foraging with Mountain Ways Ireland, explore the fields and ditches of the townland area as Brian introduces you to the wonderful world of wild edibles and simple but powerful folk Medicinals. Depending on the season… fresh spring shoots, flowers, seeds, fungi, berries and fruit.
Or try out some nature crafts! connect with nature by creating some wonderful crafts from natural materials, Try Celtic Pendant Woodturning in Bluebell Lane Forest, visit and craft your very own Celtic Pendant.
Maybe try out more of the bushcraft side, we have so many bushcraft experiences in our area, get your hands dirty and learn the art of fire-making and much more. As you sit by the fire, surrounded by the beauty of our area, you'll feel a sense of peace and tranquillity wash over you.
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Wellness Retreats and Spas
Mourne Gullion Strangford offers a variety of wellness spas and retreats. Wellness accommodation provide a space for individuals to rejuvenate and relax to escape the stresses of everyday life. Here are some places you can escape to for a break.
Slieve Donard Hotel & Spa is a landmark, grand Victorian style hotel, renowned for its luxurios spa treatments, stunning views of "where the Mountains of Mourne sweep down to the sea" - Percy French. A dog friendly hotel with excellent restaurants and facilities including the pool, sauna and fitness centre.
Pamper yourselves with rejuvenating spa treatments at the mid-19th centure, Killeavy Castle Estate, relax by the pool, savor the delicious top-quality food in the on-site restaurant. Explore the 365 acres of mixed farm and scenic nature filled walks located throughout the grounds.
Modern life can be busy so its great to recharge in a way that brings a real sense of wellness. At The Lodge at Quarterland Bay the ambition is to provide groups of friends and family with a luxurious haven where they can relax, have fun and truly enjoy human connection in beautiful natural surroundings.
Nestled beneath the Mountains of Mourne, visit the Burrendale Hotel and Spa and indulge yourself in The Spa, with an array of relaxing treatments on offer. You are only a short drive away from fabulous hikes and scenic forest parks.
Get yourself to the Canal Court Hotel & Spa for a treatment. Located in the heart of Newry City, sitting on the banks fo Ireland's Oldest Manmade Waterway, the Newry Canal. After you’ve bubbled away your troubles in their hot tub, indulge in a powerful anti-ageing facial, body therapy or maybe even a full body massage, its just a perfect stay for relaxation.
Nestled in the heart of Tollymore Valley within the Mourne Mountains, Enniskeen Estate & Forest Spa offers a boutique retreat for couples & friends. Here, breathtaking mountain vistas and the calming sounds of the river make it a wonderful wellness experience and you can enjoy a unique private spa experience in the woods overlooking Slieve Donard mountain.
Try out Revive Saunas Natural Spring Mountain Spa, located in Rostrevor, County Down. A perfect experience to detox and unwind with views of Knockbarragh Valley in the Mourne Mountains. Indulge in the luxury of a sauna, hot tub and plunge pool, by yourself or with friends surrounded by nature's splendour.
Soak Seaweed Baths in Newcastle, County Down, offer a unique and rejuvenating experience where visitors can unwind in private baths filled with locally harvested seaweed and heated seawater, ensuring a deeply relaxing and restorative visit.
Healthy Eating and Nutrition
Get a taste of fresh local produce and ingredients in the area by visiting some of our wonderful farm shops and cafes throughout our region. Here we have listed a few locations to obtain organic and fresh local products.
Fodder Farm Shop and Cafe
Fodder Farm Shop and Cafe is a café and farm shop based on the working farm in Finnebrogue Woods, selling their grass-fed Dexter Beef sustainably farmed locally, they also sell local cheeses and other delicious things.
Killeavy Castle Estate Farm Shop
Killeavy Castle and Estate is dedicated to their farm-to-fork approach and offer only the best products from their working farm and walled garden, their farm shop includes freshly cut meat and vegetables. You can have a sample of their wonderful produce in the cafe & restaurant on site.
McGrath's Farm Shop
Take a trip to McGrath's Farm Shop in Annacloy, their farm shop contains lots of locally sourced goods from around Northern Ireland and selling their homebred Aberdeen Angus beef and lamb products.
Ark Farm Shop & Community Gardens
Ark Farm shop and Community Gardens, Newcastle supplies customers with delicious high quality fresh produce organically grown vegetables and soft fruits. They also stock a selection of fresh fruit, free range eggs and 100% Grass-fed Dexter Beef and lamb and free-range pork from Castlescreen Farm.
Fish & Farm Shop
Fish & Farm shop, Newcastle is a retail shop where customers can select from freshly prepared dishes to enjoy at home. This includes locally sourced fresh fish, lasagnas, pies, breads and much more, which are all prepared in-house by chef Alex Greene.
Millbank Farm Shop
Millbank Farm Shop in Saintfield is a sixth-generation farm, that offers quality local fruit, vegetables, cheese and fine ingredients, guaranteed fresh and locally grown produce. They have farmed on the same land in Killinchy since 1889 and grow over 40 varieties of crops.
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Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Practices
Promoting wellness through sustainable travel in Mourne Gullion Strangford can be approached from multiple angles, focusing on the physical, mental and environmental benefits of sustainable practices. Here are some strategies and ideas to promote this initiative.
Getting Around on Foot
From walking tours and walking trails to hiring tour guides, Mourne Gullion Strangford has lots of options for those who prefer to experience the area on foot.
Public Transport
Newry train and bus stations are within easy reach of the city centre. The bus stations in Downpatrick, Newry and Newcastle make travelling in and around this region all that much easier.
Mourne Shuttle Service
Mourne Shuttle is a 16-seat minibus that can pick you up at your desired car park and take you out to the starting point. Pick up and drop off points include Donard Park, Newcastle, Trassey Track Car Park and Carrick Little Car Park. 
Accommodation options in the Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark that prioritise environmental wellness include:
Glamping Sites: Luxury camping options that offer minimal impact on the environment, often using solar power and composting toilets. Check our Accommodation section for your perfect glamping getaway.
Eco-Friendly Hotels: Killeavy Castle Estate near Newry offers an eco-friendly bed in the seclusion of the Ring of Gullion.
The Lodge at Quarterland Bay celebrates nature with warm wooden features, natural materials and has an open, spacious feel. Large windows which look onto the Lough and lush greenery bring the landscape inside and reflect the tranquillity of the area.
Camping Sites: Castlewellan Forest Park, Kilbroney Park, Delamont Country Park, Tollymore Forest Park..jpg)
The Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark offers a rich array of wellness opportunities that cater to diverse interests and promote a deep connection with nature.
Visitors can:
- Hike Scenic Trails: Traverse the picturesque Mourne Mountains, Slieve Gullion, and surrounding areas, enjoying breathtaking landscapes and tranquil environments.
- Experience Wildlife: Observe a variety of wildlife in their natural habitats, enhancing a sense of harmony with nature.
- Engage in Water Activities: Explore Strangford Lough through kayaking, sailing, or paddleboarding, benefiting from both physical exercise and serene water views.
- Enjoy Mindfulness and Yoga Retreats: Participate in retreats that focus on mindfulness, meditation, and yoga, set against the backdrop of stunning natural scenery.
- Visit Historic Sites: Discover the rich cultural heritage of the region by visiting ancient monuments, castles, and other historic sites, providing both educational and reflective experiences.
- Relax in Eco-Friendly Accommodations: Stay in lodgings that prioritize environmental wellness, offering sustainable amenities and practices for a guilt-free stay.
Come explore and experience the Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark, immerse yourselves in its natural beauty, partake in a variety of wellness activities, and foster a deeper appreciation for the environment. This destination promises rejuvenation, inspiration, and a memorable connection to the natural world.
The perfect start to any family trip to Slieve Gullion Forest Park begins with a stop off at the action-packed Adventure Playpark, which is guaranteed to keep kids of all ages delighted and thoroughly entertained.
Tollymore Forest Park has panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the sea at Newcastle and is open to the public all year. Tollymore Forest covers an area of almost 630 hectares at the foot of the Mourne Mountains.
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.
Newcastle and Castlewellan Bike Hire We have a wide range of bikes available for hire. Mountain bikes, electric e-bikes, tandem bicycles, kids bicycles. You name it, we should have it. Free delivery and shuttle bus service.
At Geology Rocks Adventure we offer adventurous activities based mainly in the Mourne Mountains, but we also operate in Northern Ireland wide.
Brian from Mountain Ways Ireland is a wild food enthusiast and folklorist and have been for all of his life. Tapping into a lifetime love for the outdoors, centuries old tacit knowledge handed down through his family and years of my his research and experimentation, Brian will guide you on a foraging journey that reveals the hidden potential in even the most familiar of wild plants, those plants that surround you, the ones you walk past every day whether you live in the countryside, town or city.
Expert woodturner and storyteller Padraig Carragher is ready to welcome you to his private woodland forest for an exciting and memorable experience teaching you the ways of an ancient Irish craft.
A beloved destination for families, golfers, and holiday travellers, Slieve Donard is a local landmark that’s equal parts homey and breath-taking. The resort sits at the foot of the Mourne Mountains, on the edge of Royal County Down Golf Club, ranked no. 1 in the world by Golf Digest.
Welcome To Killeavy Castle Estate. As the centrepiece of 365 acres of mixed farm and woodland in County Armagh’s stunning Slieve Gullion, Killeavy Castle Estate provides everything you need, to switch off, rest and recharge.
The Burrendale Hotel, Country Club & Spa is a leading four-star Hotel in Newcastle nestled beneath the Mountains of Mourne. Located just 45 minutes from Belfast or Newry, The Burrendale Hotel, Country Club & Spa is the ideal location to relax and unwind. Perfect for a Spa Break, Family Retreat, Romantic Getaway or Business Trip.
The Canal Court Hotel & Spa is a fine four star property, with a total of 110 bedrooms & suites, extensive Health & Leisure Complex and stunning Spa, perfectly located in the heart of the City close to both Bus & Rail Stations.
With famous guests including Hugh Jackman, this luxurious forest resort overlooking Northern Ireland's highest mountain, Slieve Donard, could be your new happy place.
Soak offers customers a unique experience, a place to be spoiled or to simply ease the body and soothe the mind. Relax in a silky hot seaweed bath in our award winning bathhouse or Revive with a sensual spa treatment in our bespoke treatment rooms.
Castlewellan Forest Park is located on Forest Park View, Castlewellan, County Down, in a dramatic setting of mountains and sea. Castlewellan Forest Park has one of the most outstanding tree and shrub collections in Europe. The beauty, vigour and perfect shape of the trees in the National Arboretum attract tree enthusiasts from around the world.
The Lodge at Quarterland is a private, rural and luxurious accommodation on nature's doorstep allowing for an authentic and comforting experience for groups of friends and families yearning for the perfect place to getaway and experience true tranquillity.
