Everyone loves Christmas, the aesthetic of it all, the colours, smells and cosiness. With the long dark nights and the colder mornings, it is important to make the most of the winter weather. The sun brings happiness, so make time for self-care in winter. There’s something special in the air, you can feel the crisp crunch of winter, inspiring us to immerse ourselves in the great outdoors.
There is so much the Mourne Mountains and Ring of Gullion has to offer at this time of year. Winter is the perfect time to get out and enjoy our Giant Experiences. Away from the crowds you can get back to nature. Memories are shaped and made in Strangford Lough, Ring of Gullion and the Mourne Mountains
Explore the best locations on your bike and appreciate the winter vibes. Take a walk through the forests and parks and enjoy the wide open spaces. Enjoy some time together discovering all things festive.
Uncover Ireland's mountain of mystery in Slieve Gullion, hike to the Cloughmore Stone in Kilbroney, take in the spectacular views across Strangford Lough from Delamont Country Park or loose yourself in one of Ireland's most exciting outdoor spaces in Castlewellan.
Experience the Great Outdoors
Winter is the perfect time to get out and explore this great season. Hire a bike at Life Adventure Centre or Clearsky Adventure Centre and head for the hills.
Escape to the forest and enjoy the expansive woodlands and dedicated parks. It doesn’t matter if you are an occasional rambler or a seasoned adventurer the trails in the Mourne Mountains and Ring of Gullion are the perfect way to experience the unparalleled natural beauty of the Region. The Mourne Mountains are famous as the land "where the mountains of Mourne sweep down to the sea". Our rugged coastline is home to sweeping views, pristine sands, and the fresh sea air. If you want to experience adventure on the open waters, or simply enjoy a stroll at the beach with the family, you’ll find what you’re looking for with our stunning beaches at Murlough, Cranfield and Tyrella.
Recharge the batteries with a glamping experience at a stunning location, perfect as a base for hiking, walking and mountain biking.
Be inspired
Gardening enthusiasts will love the area. Over the years its spectacular charm has inspired green fingered pioneers who have worked with the landscape to carve out some sparkling displays of colour and beauty.
Tollymore Forest Park is one of those places you’re unlikely to forget after you visit. The gardens here are vast and tree lovers in particular will love the mix of exotic trees.
A few miles up the road in Castlewellan Forest Park you will find the walled Annesley Garden and the National Arboretum, which features rare conifers, and maples imported directly from Japan.. Gardening enthusiasts should not miss the chance to go on the Annesley Garden Walk.
Visitors to Montalto Estate in Ballynahinch can enjoy a range of captivating gardens and beautiful walks and trails. It is a mystical and enchanting estate, set in magnificent natural surroundings. After your walk have a treat in their stylish café which offers flavoursome and beautifully presented food. There is even a shop that offers a mix of beautiful gifts and crafts.
If you’re looking for gorgeous gardens, we have them in spades.
Choose from a unique self catering cottage or a 4* hotel to book your perfect stay
Follow @VisitMourne on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for inspiration on what to do and what to see in the Mourne Moutains and Ring of Gullion and share pictures of your special memories with us.
If these mountains could speak, they’d tell tales of hermits, smugglers and fugitives... Join Peter for an unforgettable walking experience amongst the most fabulous scenery.
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.
Situated 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 feeling'. It is home of the Strangford Stone - the tallest megalith in Ireland. This beautiful 200-acre Country Park offers a great day out for visitors of all ages. Whether you are a keen walker, a nature lover or simply looking for a great day out for all the family you will find plenty to entertain you in Delamont Country Park.
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.
Kilbroney Park 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.
Slieve Gullion is Ireland's Mountain of Mystery. Slieve Gullion Forest Park offers walking trails, a scenic drive, an Adventure Playpark, Fionn's Giant Adventure children's story trail and a Courtyard with coffee shop.
Montalto Estate in Ballynahinch is a mystical and enchanting estate, set in magnificent natural surroundings. Visitor experience includes access to the estate's beautiful gardens; historic walks and trails and an exciting play area where children can engage, explore and learn.
Tyrella 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 offers a gently sloping, mainly sandy beach located at the entrance to Carlingford Lough, an area designated as being of Special Scientific Interest.
This 5 mile stretch of golden sands is still the essence of the resort and is hugely popular for swimming, sunbathing and other forms of recreation.
Follow the blue waymarker arrows along this trail, passing along the lower edge of the arboretum. The trail gently descends through a stand of semi-mature broad leaved trees before entering the forest plots area.
Montalto Estate in Ballynahinch is a mystical and enchanting estate, set in magnificent natural surroundings. Visitor experience includes access to the estate's beautiful gardens; historic walks and trails and an exciting play area where children can engage, explore and learn.
