Maybe you would prefer an adventurous holiday in the Mourne Mountains and Ring of Gullion Region. This area is a haven for nature enthusiasts, find your ideal walking destination, hike through the mountains, explore the forest parks, speed through bike trails or cast a line and catch the biggest fish. With a wide variety of options, throughout the Mourne Gullion and Strangford area you are not short of an adventure each day of your trip!
Greenvale Cabins, nestled at the foot of Slieve Gullion, is a unique location with beautiful rural log cabins surrounded by stunning scenery situated on a farmland. It's the perfect base for walkers and mountain trekkers. Picture a cabin with a cosy balcony, BBQ areas, a private luxury hot tub and drinks area, all the ideal essentials for rest and relaxation after a day of exploring the Ring of Gullion. Take a trip to Slieve Gullion Forest Park so you can enjoy a beautiful walk, discover the trails, see some wildlife and try some tasty treats from their onsite cafe. There are plenty of things to do nearby to suit your preferences.
Situated on the shores of the stunning Strangford Lough, is The Cuan, a luxury coastal boutique hotel which also now features Cuan House a self-catering holiday home. These are ideal spots for you to stay if you want to be close to all things outdoorsy, perfect for a group of avid walkers, couples who like to explore and families who love outdoor activities. Upon exploring it's not hard to see why Strangford has earned its titled as an area of outstanding beauty. A short drive away from your accommodation is Castle Ward, a National Trust Estate, superb for a day out. Conquer at least one of the six enjoyable trails for walkers, cyclists and riders, with a choice of difficulty and distance.
Step into a fantasy world of castles and dragons as you explore the Georgian farmyard and the lough shore, film locations for the hit television series Game of Thrones®. Castle Ward also offers lots of outdoor fun with the Clearsky Adventure Centre, kayak along the Strangford Lough, try your hand at archery, take a boat tour or one of many other activities available there.
Located on the hills of Saul outside Downpatrick, Saul Lodges may be your ultimate holiday accommodation. Wake up each morning to breathtaking views of Saul Countryside. Each lodge is comfortable and cosy, featuring its own lovely wood-fired hot tub essential for rest and relaxation after a day of being outdoors. The Barn Bar and Restaurant is a 2-minute walk away from your accommodation, and they also offer takeaway if you fancy a night in.
In this area of Mourne Gullion and Strangford you are very close to many activities, local history and quaint towns to keep you busy exploring on your holiday. St Patrick's Way Stables is close by so why not try out some horse riding on quiet countryside lanes, there are treks available to suit all levels.
For the enthusiastic fishermen and women who want to spend a day out in the fresh air doing some fishing, a 5-minute drive away is the picturesque Lough Money, stocked with rainbow trout, pike and perch, the fishing season runs from February to December.
If you enjoy long walks on the beach then take a drive to Ballyhornan, a scenic beach surrounded with greenery and cliffs. This beautiful beach has plenty of walking opportunities, many avid walkers will take on the entire Lecale Way. Maybe you will decide to bring some paddle boards or kayaks on your trip, it is ideal location to paddle the waves!