Why Choose the Mourne Mountains, Ring of Gullion, and Strangford Lough Area?

Northern Ireland’s Mourne Mountains, Ring of Gullion and Strangford Lough area is renowned for breathtaking views and rugged beauty, making this an iconic destination.  Together, this area provides an ideal combination of outdoor activities, rich history, and culture for a diverse and exciting group getaway.

Ideal Accommodation for Large Groups

When planning a family or group getaway, finding accommodation that suits everyone is key. Luckily,  Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion offer a wide variety of options, from self-catering cottages to large country homes and luxury lodges. For a group getaway, self-catering cottages or houses provide the perfect base for exploring. Many cottages and homes are equipped with large kitchens, open-plan living areas, and plenty of bedrooms to accommodate big groups or families. These properties often have spectacular views, making them a peaceful retreat after a busy day outdoors. Some properties also offer private gardens, hot tubs, and stunning views of the mountains or coastline, providing both comfort and style.

Self-Catering Cottages:

The Green Holiday Cottages - Choose from The Granary, The Byre, The Kiln & The Wee Home; these recently renovated Cottages date back to 1800s and were originally a Flax Mill. The wonderfully secluded grounds provide the ideal playground for kids of all ages and the peace and quiet of the river walks offer the chance to unwind in a natural idyll.

Millers Close Holiday Cottages  A small cluster (or clachans) of houses nestling in the foothills of the Mourne Mountains, on the edge of Tollymore Forest Park. Be prepared to be astonished by their natural beauty and charm. A rambler’s paradis, just 300 metres from the Ulster Way Walk which includes, the Hare's Gap and The Shimna River which flows gently along the foothills of the Mournes on its way to the sea at Millers Close.

Tory Bush Cottages are situated outside Bryansford village overlooking the northern slopes of the Mourne Mountains. Tollymore Forest Park is only metres away TV and film locations including Game of Thrones, Dracula Untold and The Fall. With 9 Cottages available its sure to be a location to have all your friends or family in the same location with home from home amenities. 

Cornmill Quay Cottage  are situated in the sea-side village of Annalong at the foot of the Mourne Mountains, in the Marine Park. Each cottage has OFCH, a fully equipped kitchen, dining and living area, with an open fire. Convenient to all local amenities and award winning restaurants.  

Clonlum Cottages Take a stroll and explore Killeavy Castle, just 5 minutes away.  Located 50 minutes from Belfast and approximately 1 hour from Dublin, these cottages are in the heart of the action. With some of Ireland's most popular tourist attractions a short drive away. 

Country Houses and Lodges:

Consider booking a stay at one of the larger country houses or lodges scattered throughout the region.

The Brambles.  A spacious guest house with 8 bedrooms, a dining room, bar and snug room. An outside area with tables to soak up the sun. Located on the outskirts of Newcastle and just five minutes drive to local attractions.

Ollies Lodge This large country property offers a kitchen with seating for up to 12 people,and  two spacious reception rooms.  The conservatory has been described by many visitors as the hub of the house where they enjoy relaxing into the late evening hours.

Newells Cross Cottages are located on the main Newry Road between Kilkeel and Rostrevor overlooking Carlingford lough. This luxurious accommodation can sleep a group of up to 12 people. Mabels Cottage has also been designed with full disabled access throughout the ground floor. Olive's Cottage is situated in the same complex as Mabel's Cottage. This luxurious 4 bedroom cottage sleeps 9 people and has all the facilities for a baby. There is full disabled access throughout the ground floor. 

The Lodge at Quarterland Bay 

A luxurious haven amidst nature, the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. The Lodge features beautifully appointed  bedrooms, accommodating up to 24 guests. For those seeking a break from cooking, we offer the option of hiring a private chef, ensuring a memorable culinary experience with local, organic ingredients. The Lodge is an ideal base for outdoor enthusiasts. After a day of exploration, unwind in our luxurious spa facilities, including a steam room, sauna, and outdoor hot tub.  The property boasts a games room with pool, table tennis, and more. The outdoor football facilities and available bicycles make it an ideal spot for family fun.

We are so lucky to have so many options for accomodation for groups to get away together see below some more accomodation options. 

Outdoor Adventures for All Ages

Hiking and Walking Trails: Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion is a hiker’s paradise, offering trails of all levels.  Check out our Forest Parks and enjoy a family day out.

Cycling: The destination also offer a range of cycling routes. Whether your group enjoys mountain biking or a gentle cycle through quieter roads, you’ll find something suitable. 

Water Activities: For something different, this area is close to the beautiful Mourne Coastal route, where you can enjoy a day by the sea.  The beaches are family-friendly, making them perfect for an afternoon with the kids.

Making Lasting Memories

Mourne Gullion Strangford offers something for everyone – from thrilling outdoor adventures to relaxing beach days and cultural explorations. For large families or groups of friends, this corner of Northern Ireland provides the perfect setting to spend quality time together in a beautiful, unspoiled landscape.

Hillyard Mews
Self-Catering
Hillyard Mews Front Exterior, Self Catering Townhouses, Bryansford Road, Newcastle, County Down

Nestled at the foot of the magnificent Mourne Mountains, Hillyard Mews offers modern, beautifully appointed 3 and 4 bedroom self-catering townhouses. Situated only steps from the entrance of Donard Park in Newcastle, County Down, these cosy retreats provide the perfect location for families, golfers, hikers and groups wanting to explore all that Newcastle has to offer.

The Green Holiday Cottages - The Byre
Self-Catering
The Green Holiday Cottages - The Byre

The Byre is a 2 bedroom cottage which can sleep up to 4 people. The Byre has a lowered cooking and food preparation area in the kitchen so it suitable for someone who has limited mobility and who may require the use of wheelchair.

The Green Holiday Cottages - The Granary
Self-Catering
The Green Holiday Cottages - The Granary

Modern comfortable holiday home, the perfect family holiday location in this tranquil riverside setting. The wonderfully secluded grounds provide the ideal playground for kids of all ages and the peace and quiet of the river walks offer the chance to unwind in a natural idyll.

The Green Holiday Cottages - The Kiln
Self-Catering
The Green Holiday Cottages - The Kiln

The Kiln is a 2 storey cottage which can sleep 5 people with a downstairs kitchen living area. There is a ground floor toilet and a first floor shower room. There is an outside patio which leads to a communal garden, play area and outdoor kitchen.

The Green Holiday Cottages - Wee Home
Self-Catering
The Green Holiday Cottages - Wee Home

Wee Home is the one of a 3 holiday cottages built on the site of 18th Century corn and flax mill. Situated by the Kilkeel River, within an ancient woodland and private meadows Wee Home is a modern spacious 3-bedroom house which can sleep 6 people.

Millers Close Holiday Cottages
Self-Catering
Millers Close Holiday Cottages

Millers Close Holiday Cottages are a small cluster of Cosy, Comfortable Self Catering Cottages nestled in the heart of County Down. Located at the Foot of the Mourne Mountains beside Tollymore Forest Park. A wonderful retreat anytime of the year.

Clonlum Cottages
Self-Catering
Clonlum Cottages

A cluster of 3 luxurious holiday cottages, nestled against the magnificent backdrop of Slieve Gullion, in a rural picturesque setting close to the bustling city, Newry. A unique location with access to bike trails and hill walking at Slieve Gullion.

The Brambles
Guest Accommodation
The Brambles

Our spacious guest house has 8 bedrooms, a dining room, bar and snug room with Sky Sports TV. An outside area with tables to soak up the sun.

Ollies Lodge
Self-Catering
Ollies Lodge

Beautiful countryside setting, in a quiet rural location from which to explore Northern Ireland, or to just say in, relax and escape from it all. Lots to see and do including National Trust, Golfing & Game of Thrones locations

Newells Cross Cottages - Mabel's Cottage
Self-Catering
Newells Cross Cottages - Mabel's Cottage

Cottage sleeps 12 and has a fully equipped nursery. Open plan kitchen and living room with stove and television for a cosy evening. 5 mins from Cranfield beach, Carlingford ferry and Kilkeel Golf course. Towels, toiletries and bed linen provided.

Newells Cross Cottages - Olive's Cottage
Self-Catering
Newells Cross Cottages - Olive's Cottage

Olive's cottage sleeps 9 and has baby facilities. Open plan living room with stove and television for a cosy evening. 5 minutes from Cranfield beach, Carlingford Lough Ferry and Kilkeel Golf Course. Towels, toiletries and bed linen provided.

The Briers Country House
Guest Accommodation
The Briers Country House

Our spacious guest house has 9 bedrooms, a dining room, bar and snug room with Sky Sports TV. An outside area with tables to soak up the sun.

Blue Door Apartments
Guest Accommodation
Apartment kitchen

Blue Door serviced apartments are created to compliment the outstanding beauty of the Mourne area, uniquely nestled between the sea and the mountains, recognized worldwide as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

The Lodge at Quarterland Bay
Self-Catering
Birdseye view of The Lodge at Quarterland and surrounding area

The Lodge at Quarterland is a private, rural and luxurious accommodation on nature's doorstep allowing for an authentic and comforting experience for groups of friends and families yearning for the perfect place to getaway and experience true tranquillity.

Cornmill Quay Cottages- Binnian Cottage
Self-Catering
Cornmill Quay Cottages- Binnian Cottage

Cornmill Quay Cottages are situated in the sea-side village of Annalong at the foot of the Mourne Mountains, in the Marine Park. Each cottage has OFCH, a fully equipped kitchen, dining and living area, with an open fire. Convenient to all local ...

Hanna's Close Holiday Cottages - George's Cottage
Self-Catering
Hanna's Close Holiday Cottages - George's Cottage

George's Cottage stands in the centre of Hanna's Close with other cottages forming a 'clachan'. The cottages have been renovated and refurbished to a high standard and make an ideal base for a family or group get together.

Kribben Cottages - Crannoge Cottage
Self-Catering
Kribben Cottages - Crannoge Cottage

A cluster of 5 luxury cottages nestled against the magnificent back drop of the Mourne Mountains in a rural picturesque setting close to the bustling seaside town of Newcastle. Cranogue is a 2 bedroom cottage with 1 super king sized bed and 2 ...

Slievemoyle Cottages (Mill Cottage)
Self-Catering
Mill Cottage showing red double doors

Mill Cottage is full of old world charm. Original features, a wood burning stove, comfy sofas and beds, vintage furniture and hillside views add to the ambiance. The perfect base for exploring this beautiful area of County Down.