The breath-taking scenery of the Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark is the perfect backdrop for outdoor activity, exploration and adventure.
The island of Ireland’s newest UNESCO global geopark is a fabulous combination of stunning landscape and cultural heritage. And with the launch of a range of new activities, there is even more to enjoy there.
With three designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty in the geopark, there is breath-taking scenery wherever you look. Hike the mighty Mourne Mountains or the dramatic Ring of Gullion and enjoy the outstanding views. Why not add in a bit of exhilarating wild swimming with the Wild River Dipping Experience, which combines a hike in the Mournes with cold water therapy in a natural dipping pool.
2 Have fun on the tranquil waters
Strangford Lough is the perfect place for watersports. Skim through clear waters on a kayaking or SUP and Sip stand-up paddleboard adventure. Go fishing or join a boat tour to encounter the diverse wildlife of the lough, including seals and seabirds. For something a little different, board a replica Viking longship and explore the Lecale coastline while being regaled by stories of ancient peoples and traditions.
3 Visit gorgeous gardens
A walk through the captivating gardens at the Montalto Estate or Rowallane is balm for the soul. At Montalto Estate, the garden walk is at its most stunning in springtime with its colourful displays of azaleas and rhododendrons. Rowallane is known as a garden for all seasons and is filled with unusual plants and sculptures.
4 Delve into history and culture
The geopark is brimming with archaeological and historic monuments and ruins which tell the story of the long history of the region. Among the highlights are the prehistoric passage tombs at Clontygora and Ballymacdermot, and the Killeavy Old Churches. Join the Timeless Tales of the Magnificent Mournes Experience and learn about the myths and legends of the mountain.
5 Explore the fascinating geology
Learn about the unique geosites in the geopark shaped by the earth’s dynamic forces over millions of years. Take a guided tour such as The Cloughmore Experience or download the interactive map and begin your exploration of natural wonders from glacial deposits to rivers, dunes and mountain granites. Get up close with the geology on a hands-on experience of searching for gold in the Mourne Mountains.
6 Sip a sample of artisan spirit
Take a tour of Rademon Estate Distillery and taste their award-winning Shortcross gin made from wild botanicals foraged in the nearby fields. Or visit Killowen Distillery to find out how it uses traditional processes to produce its range of fine craft spirits. Why not combine an electric bike experience in the mountains with a stop at Whitewater brewery on a Mourne Trails & Ales Tour.
7 Wander through forest parks
The geopark has several beautiful forest parks with gorgeous walks and bike trails. Castlewellan Forest Park has an outstanding tree and shrub collection and the world’s largest permanent hedge maze. At Tollymore Forest Park in the Mournes you can see Game of Thrones shoot locations while Slieve Gullion Forest Park is the home of children’s favourite, Fionn’s Giant Adventure.
8 Relax and unwind
Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark is the perfect place to unwind and there are many experiences that will help you do just that. Relax in a Mourne hot barrel sauna overlooking Cranfield beach, or reconnect with nature on a YMCA Wild Fire & Jam Experience where you will learn the ancient art of bushcraft.
9 Get up close to nature
Animal lovers should head to Murlough National Nature Reserve where a wide range of flora and fauna can be seen including 23 species of butterfly, many types of birds and wildfowls, seals, and cattle, ponies and rabbits. Elsewhere, you can go birdwatching with Red Kite Tours, take a walk on the beach with an alpaca or enjoy a Donkey Trail through Time.
10 Have a foodie experience
Indulge your tastebuds. Learn how to make Irish wheaten bread at Mrs C’s Home Kitchen, see artisan chocolate being made at a Neary Nógs craft chocolate experience or enjoy a secret dining experience with a master chef in an unknown destination. On the Tide to Table Taste Tour, you can forage for seaweed before sampling the finest oysters, crab and mussels, while the Foraging and Farming through the Ages experience takes you back in time to learn about ancient farming practices and taste wild food as you walk on Slieve Gullion.
