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Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark

Downpatrick, County Down, BT30 6GQ
Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark

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Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark is a UNESCO Global Geopark and recognised Area of Outstanding Beauty that seamlessly blends stunning landscapes, rich geological history, and vibrant cultural heritage. Nestled in the heart of Northern Ireland, this unique destination promises a tapestry of experiences that will enchant and inspire you.

The Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark is a geological masterpiece. Towering granite peaks, lush green valleys, and shimmering lakes create a picturesque backdrop. The Mourne Mountains, an integral part of the geopark, are a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts. One must-visit destination is Slieve Gullion, known for its distinctive ring dyke formed during a volcanic period. A walk to the summit reveals panoramic views of the entire region, capturing the essence of Northern Ireland’s natural beauty.

Adventure awaits in the Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark. The Mourne Coastal Route offers a scenic drive along the rugged coastline, revealing hidden beaches, fishing villages, and majestic sea cliffs. Strangford Lough provides opportunities for kayaking, sailing, and wildlife spotting. The geopark's numerous trails, such as the Hare’s Gap, the Brandy Pad, and the Silent Valley Reservoir, cater to hikers of all levels, inviting you to connect with nature on a profound level.

Beyond its geological wonders, the geopark is rich in cultural heritage. Immerse yourself in local traditions, folklore, and warm hospitality. Explore charming villages like Rostrevor, where the Mountains of Mourne sweep down to the sea, or Newcastle, a lively town that serves as a gateway to Tollymore Forest Park, famously featured in a popular fantasy series. Discover the enchanting Kilbroney Forest Park and its blend of ancient woodlands and scenic trails.

Indulge in the local culinary delights of the geopark. Fresh seafood graces the tables of coastal village restaurants, while traditional Irish pubs offer local brews and warm hospitality. Whether you choose a Secret Dining experience, the Geopark 10-course tasting menu, or sample the area's home-grown and fresh seafood, you're sure to leave satisfied.

Embark on a journey where nature, history, and culture converge. Whether you seek outdoor adventures, cultural immersion, or a tranquil escape, the Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark promises an experience that transcends the ordinary. Come explore and be captivated by the magic of Northern Ireland’s geological and cultural wonders.

Visit the Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark  and Visit Mourne Mountains for more  information about the geopark and how to get there

 

 

 

 

 

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Children playing around a giant book in Slieve Gullion Forest ParkSlieve Gullion Forest Park, Adventure Playpark and Fionn's Giant Adventure, KilleavySlieve Gullion is Ireland's Mountain of Mystery. The Forest Park offers walking trails, a scenic drive, an Adventure Playpark, Fionn's Giant Adventure children's story trail and Courtyard with coffee shop.

View of the Annesley Walk in Castlewellan Forest ParkCastlewellan Forest Park, CastlewellanCastlewellan Forest Park boasts a stunning Victorian Castle, incredible panoramic views, scenic walking trails, 27 km of mountain bike trails, nature play perfect for the kids, an on-site multi-activity centre, hedge maze and equestrian centre, making it a must-visit for all ages.

Children enjoying Aslan's Table in Kilbroney ParkKilbroney Park, RostrevorKilbroney Park Forest 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.

Murlough National Nature Reserve, DundrumMurlough 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.

Tyrella Beach, CloughTyrella beach and conservation area is a small, enclosed dune complex within Dundrum Bay. It is a wide, flat, sandy beach two kilometres long and backed by 25 hectares of mature dunes in a conservation area.

Cranfield West Beach, KilkeelCranfield West offers a gently sloping, mainly sandy beach located at the entrance to Carlingford Lough, an area designated as being of Special Scientific Interest.

Slieve Donard (via Glen River), Co DownSlieve Donard at 850m (2,789 ft) is the highest of the Mourne Mtns. The views from the summit are extensive and on a clear day the Isle of Man, Wicklow, Donegal, Wales and Scotland may be seen, as well as the long stretch of Newcastle Beach.

Child climbing and another on a slide in the play park, at Delamont Country Park.Delamont Country Park, KillyleaghSituated 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…

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What's Nearby

  1. Built 1954 to the designs of S. McIlveen of Ferguson and McIlveen, Belfast. This is a…

    0.61 miles away
  2. Located in the heart of Downpatrick, Down Arts Centre manages the Season Programme and is…

    0.76 miles away
  3. Struell Wells was built around a stream flowing through a secluded valley. It was a…

    0.84 miles away
  4. The Saint Patrick Centre is the only permanent exhibition in the World about Ireland’s…

    0.86 miles away
  5. Down County Museum is located in the old county Gaol of Down. It houses fascinating…

    0.9 miles away
  6. Down Cathedral, a Cathedral of the Church of Ireland with magnificent stain glass…

    0.97 miles away
  7. Travel back to the past with real vintage steam trains through St. Patrick's Country,…

    0.97 miles away
  8. Two miles outside Downpatrick is the replica of St Patrick's first church in Ireland.…

    1.48 miles away
  9. Located on the north bank of the Quoile River, Inch Abbey was founded by John de Courcy…

    1.51 miles away
  10. The Reserve provides a relaxing natural retreat and offers visitors tranquil riverside…

    1.71 miles away
  11. Interactive Medieval history Village, offering the opportunity to step back in time and…

    2.59 miles away
  12. Restored ruins of a sixth century church of St. Tassach, said to have given the last…

    3.47 miles away
  13. Situated on the shores of Strangford Lough in an area of outstanding natural…

    4.04 miles away
  14. Situated 8.8km south east of Ballynahinch, on the north east shore of Loughinisland Lake,…

    4.41 miles away
  15. Tyrella beach and conservation area is a small, enclosed dune complex within Dundrum Bay.…

    5.31 miles away
  16. The Centre consists of a small museum, numerous displays, a science education area, a…

    5.56 miles away

Explore More

Children playing around a giant book in Slieve Gullion Forest ParkSlieve Gullion Forest Park, Adventure Playpark and Fionn's Giant Adventure, KilleavySlieve Gullion is Ireland's Mountain of Mystery. The Forest Park offers walking trails, a scenic drive, an Adventure Playpark, Fionn's Giant Adventure children's story trail and Courtyard with coffee shop.

View of the Annesley Walk in Castlewellan Forest ParkCastlewellan Forest Park, CastlewellanCastlewellan Forest Park boasts a stunning Victorian Castle, incredible panoramic views, scenic walking trails, 27 km of mountain bike trails, nature play perfect for the kids, an on-site multi-activity centre, hedge maze and equestrian centre, making it a must-visit for all ages.

Children enjoying Aslan's Table in Kilbroney ParkKilbroney Park, RostrevorKilbroney Park Forest 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.

Murlough National Nature Reserve, DundrumMurlough 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.

Tyrella Beach, CloughTyrella beach and conservation area is a small, enclosed dune complex within Dundrum Bay. It is a wide, flat, sandy beach two kilometres long and backed by 25 hectares of mature dunes in a conservation area.

Cranfield West Beach, KilkeelCranfield West offers a gently sloping, mainly sandy beach located at the entrance to Carlingford Lough, an area designated as being of Special Scientific Interest.

Slieve Donard (via Glen River), Co DownSlieve Donard at 850m (2,789 ft) is the highest of the Mourne Mtns. The views from the summit are extensive and on a clear day the Isle of Man, Wicklow, Donegal, Wales and Scotland may be seen, as well as the long stretch of Newcastle Beach.

Child climbing and another on a slide in the play park, at Delamont Country Park.Delamont Country Park, KillyleaghSituated 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…

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