Blog (Adventure) - Visit Mourne Gullion Strangford

The Mourne Mountains in County Down, Northern Ireland, are a breathtaking destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Nestled within the Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark, this area boasts dramatic granite peaks, lush forests, and serene reservoirs—making it a must-visit for hikers, families, and nature lovers.

There is something enchanting about nature in the winter landscape, if you’re lucky enough get some snow, then appreciate the ultimate beauty of the Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark in the cold season, admiring glistening snow-covered trees and mountain tops whilst enjoying the crunch of snow beneath your boots.

From towering trees to mystical trails, the Mourne Gullion Strangford region is home to some of Northern Ireland’s most enchanting forest walks. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful escape, a family day out, or a scenic adventure, these five forest parks offer something for everyone. Lace up your boots and discover the magic of our woodlands!

We all love switching on the TV after a long day and losing ourselves in a favourite series or movie — but why just watch it when you can live it? Mourne Gullion Strangford has played a starring role in world-famous productions like Game of Thrones®, filmed in iconic locations such as Tollymore Forest Park, Castle Ward, and Inch Abbey. And that’s just the beginning. Instead of watching from the sofa, come walk the very landscapes where these epic stories were brought to life and see the magic of our area of outstanding natural beauty unfold right before your eyes.

Take a journey back in time and follow in the footsteps of the legendary Fionn Mac Cumhaill (or Finn McCool) of the Fianna warriors where Fionn walked up the slopes of Slieve Gullion to the lake near the summit to find a beautiful young lady sobbing on the water’s edge. 

The White Witch has cast a powerful curse over Narnia, plunging the land into a neverending winter and never Christmas. Be warned, she possesses the terrifying ability to turn anyone who crosses her into stone. And whatever you do, don’t be tempted by her “enchanted” Turkish Delight!

Get ready for a season of adventure, discovery, and family fun in Mourne Gullion Strangford.  The brand new Visitor Experience Activation Programme has just been launched and it brings the natural beauty, folklore, and vibrant culture of the Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark to life.

It's that time of the year when it’s good to get out, get some fresh air around you and explore the Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion and all its natural beauty. Whether you want to visit a forest park, hike a mountain or do an activity, our region is abundant in outdoor happenings.  There is plenty to see and do and lots for you to participate in to ensure a memorable experience.

There’s nothing quite like a springtime ramble through Castlewellan Forest Park, especially when you’ve got a curious border collie like Finn leading the way, nose to the ground and tail in the air. We set out on a bright morning, keen to stretch our legs and take in some of the fresh Mourne Mountain air – and Castlewellan didn’t disappoint.

Mountain biking is an incredibly fun sport, but it can also be a daunting one to get into. The assumptions people make about it can be off-putting, and even knowing where to go can be a challenge. In this blog, we aim to lay out the simple things you can do to get into mountain biking.

Enjoy outdoor fun solving murder mysteries in fascinating and beautiful locations. Be Sherlock Holmes for a day!

The destination is thrilled to announce the launch of a range of new outdoor activity and adventure experiences promising unforgettable moments for nature enthusiasts, soft adventurers and thrill- seekers alike in the Mourne Gullion Strangford Region.