Ring of Gullion

The Ring of Gullion Area of Natural Beauty offers contrasting and diverse landscapes, rich culture and history, and countless opportunities to fall in love with the great outdoors.

One of the most intriguing attractions, the Ring of Gullion AONB comprises natural beauty, family adventures and a number of towns and villages.

About the Ring of Gullion

The Ring of Gullion is an ancient ring dyke, formed several million years ago by a volcanic collapse. More recently, it was designated an AONB in 1991, with the official area including the dyke’s mountain slopes and surrounding waterways.

Slieve Gullion is at the heart of the AONB. The Slieve Gullion scenic drive brings guests most of the way to the mountain’s summit, taking in forested landscapes, and offering views as far as the Wicklow Mountains to the South.

Walking and Hiking in the AONB

The Ring of Gullion AONB offers walkers and hikers of all abilities the opportunity to get out and enjoy the Visit Mourne countryside. With walking trails such as the Ring of Gullion Way, Poet’s Trail and the Camlough Mountain Circular Route, you’ll be spoiled for choice.

Wander the woods at Slieve Gullion Forest Park. Family friendly facilities are available onsite, including an accessible trail for children and adults with complex sensory needs.

Nature and Wildlife

The Ring of Gullion AONB’s diverse landscape provides a home to a wide variety of plant and animal life. The undisputed king of Gullion is the enormous red deer, Ireland’s largest mammal. The AONB is also home to some smaller creatures, including pine martens and red squirrels.

In the skies, you’ll be able to spot incredible local bird species, such as the buzzard and raven. Gullion’s rivers and catchments are also home to the otter, a firm favourite of adults and children alike.

Public Art and Built Heritage

The Ring of Gullion’s beautiful landscape has been home to countless residents over the centuries. Portal tombs at Ballykeel have stood for thousands of years, marking the final resting place of pre-historic residents. Follow in the footsteps of ancient inhabitants and connect with nature on one of Ann Ward’s Xhale experiences.

Step back into early Christian Ireland at the Killeavy Old Churches. Churches have stood on this site since the 6th century, while a monastic site survived for over 1000 years until closing in 1542.

Nearby, you’ll find The Cailleach Beara in Slieve Gullion Forest park. There is an enormous stone face in the midst of a forest landscape, creating a truly magical and mysterious photo opportunity.

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Mindful walks in The Mourne Mountains and Ring of Gullion

The Mourne Mountains and Ring of Gullion is a paradise for walkers. For those who treat it like an Olympic sport there are of course an abundance of challenging treks over mountains and calf-stretching trails through endless forests. If, however, you prefer to take your time and smell the roses, then there are plenty of places you can do that too.
Top tips for walking in the mountains

The Mountains of Mourne and the Ring of Gullion are truly majestic. The views from their many peaks out across valleys, plains and seas are amongst the most spectacular in the world. When you come to visit us, we want you to enjoy them as much as we do and there are a few things we would like you to keep in mind before you take them on.
Slieve Gullion Forest Park, Adventure Playpark and Fionn's Giant Adventure

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.
1. 1 Jan 202431 Dec 2024
Plan your Trip

Luckily for visitors, Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion has lots for you to see. Planning ahead can make your visit to our region that little bit easier. We can give you the best advice, maps, and guides to help you get the most out of your trip.