Blog (Family) - Visit Mourne Mountains

Cycling has always been a favourite way to get out and about to explore our beautiful region and with so many activity centres available to hire a bike for the day, you don’t even need to have your own wheels!  Have a look at the cycling routes we have laid out for you and get on your bike!

The Mourne Mountains and Ring of Gullion is home to a variety of amazing heritage trails which are well worth exploring.  The trails will take you to historical monuments and give you a chance to explore the rich and beautiful local landscape. Take time and enjoy the locations and beautiful scenery in our UNESCO Global Geopark.

The Mourne Mountains, Ring of Gullion and Strangford Lough have just gained official Geopark accredition, so if you're looking for a unique and fascinating outdoor experience in Northern Ireland, look no further than the Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark. This geopark is a designated UNESCO site that showcases the geological wonders of the region, as well as its rich history and culture.

The Mourne Mountains are a beautiful range located in Northern Ireland. They offer a variety of hikes and stunning views that are perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

May is National Walking Month!

It's time to get the hiking boots out and go explore the wonderful landscape of Mourne, Gullion and Strangford.  It doesn't matter what your preference is this region can cater for every need.  You can explore the coast, head inland to one of the many forest parks, uncover beautiful gardens or if you have the energy, pack your rucksack and head off into the mountains.

Saturday 29 April – Saturday 6 May

The first of May marks the beginning of the ancient festival of Bealtaine,  Féile na Bealtaine, and is the halfway point between the spring equinox and summer solstice.  Bealtaine, translating as month of May, is still used in the Irish language today and is said to derive from Old Irish meaning, bright fire.  

The award winning, five star Montalto Estate, in rural Co. Down, is getting ready to unveil a  significant new tourism experience called The Lost Garden Trail. Made possible through major private investment, with additional support from Tourism NI’s Experience Development Programme,  The Lost Garden Trail will open to the public on 31^st March, 2023.https://www.visitmournemountains.co.uk/things-to-do/montalto-estate-p728301

Where would you find a better place to go for a brisk stroll, a gentle dander or a family ramble than Delamont Country Park in Killyleagh?  It's time to pack a picnic, put on your walking shoes and get out and explore the various walks in this beautiful Country Park.

When you are visiting Delamont Country Park in Killyleagh check out our suggestions of other places you might enjoy.  If you are into history, walking or just want to enjoy some family fun we have a lot to offer.  Dust down your walking shoes, pack a picnic or enjoy lunch or dinner in a nearby restaurant.

In local folklore Fionn Mac Cumhaill was the legendary Irish warrior/hunter who led a small band of warriors known as the Fianna.  There are many legends associated with Fionn, the most widely known is probably the creation of the Giant’s Causeway.

Fionn, however also has strong associations with the Mourne Mountains and Ring of Gullion.

From local folklore we are told that there once was a city where Carlingford Lough is now – the beautiful Cahir Linn. The sunken city was supposedly located near Carlingford in Co. Louth overlooked by Slieve Foy, the mountain which was once an active volcano.

The 2022 calendar is bursting with your all-time favourites and a brand new event to look forward to in Newcastle at the end of the summer.

Don’t delay, get these dates into your diary!