The Ring of Gullion Area of Natural Beauty offers contrasting and diverse landscapes, rich culture and history, and countless opportunities to fall in love with the great outdoors. One of the most intriguing attractions, the Ring of Gullion AONB comprises natural beauty, family adventures and a number of towns and villages.
About the Ring of Gullion
The Ring of Gullion is an ancient ring dyke, formed several million years ago by a volcanic collapse. More recently, it was designated an AONB in 1991, with the official area including the dyke’s mountain slopes and surrounding waterways.
Slieve Gullion is at the heart of the AONB. The Slieve Gullion scenic drive brings guests most of the way to the mountain’s summit, taking in forested landscapes, and offering views as far as the Wicklow Mountains to the South.
Walking and Hiking in the Ring of Gullion AONB
The Ring of Gullion AONB offers walkers and hikers of all abilities the opportunity to get out and enjoy the Visit Mourne countryside. With walking trails such as the Ring of Gullion Way, Poet’s Trail and the Camlough Mountain Circular Route, you’ll be spoiled for choice.
Wander the woods at Slieve Gullion Forest Park. Family friendly facilities are available onsite, including an accessible trail for children and adults with complex sensory needs.
Slieve Gullion Forest Park is one of the Ring of Gullion’s best-loved attractions, offering award-winning play facilities, scenic woodland trails, and breathtaking views across the surrounding landscapes. A perfect stop for families and walkers alike, it’s the ideal place to explore the beauty of South Armagh. Find out more here.
Nature and Wildlife in the Ring of Gullion
The Ring of Gullion AONB’s diverse landscape provides a home to a wide variety of plant and animal life. The undisputed king of Gullion is the enormous red deer, Ireland’s largest mammal. The AONB is also home to some smaller creatures, including pine martens and red squirrels.
In the skies, you’ll be able to spot incredible local bird species, such as the buzzard and raven. Gullion’s rivers and catchments are also home to the otter, a firm favourite of adults and children alike.
Public Art and Built Heritage
The Ring of Gullion’s beautiful landscape has been home to countless residents over the centuries. Portal tombs at Ballykeel have stood for thousands of years, marking the final resting place of pre-historic residents. Follow in the footsteps of ancient inhabitants and connect with nature on one of Ann Ward’s Xhale experiences.
Step back into early Christian Ireland at the Killeavy Old Churches. Churches have stood on this site since the 6th century, while a monastic site survived for over 1000 years until closing in 1542.
Nearby, you’ll find The Cailleach Beara in Slieve Gullion Forest Park. There is an enormous stone face in the midst of a forest landscape, creating a truly magical and mysterious photo opportunity.
Events in the Ring of Gullion bring the landscape to life, from seasonal festivals and guided walks to family activities and cultural celebrations. Whether it’s exploring myths and legends, enjoying local heritage, or discovering nature, events here make every visit memorable. Find out more about events happening in the Ring of Gullion here.
Footsteps in the Forest is the Ring of Gullion’s unmissable autumn festival, where ancient myths and legends come to life through atmospheric woodland trails, storytelling, and live performances. A magical experience for all ages, it celebrates the rich folklore and landscape of Slieve Gullion. Find out more here.
