Looking for a date that’s more exciting than dinner and a movie?
The Mourne Gullion Strangford region is the perfect playground for couples who crave a little adventure. From forest trails and kayaking to e-biking, zip-lining, and scenic coastal walks, this stunning corner of Northern Ireland offers endless ways to make memories together.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to shake up your usual date night routine, here’s how to plan a full day of excitement, connection, and delicious local food — all set against some of the most breathtaking scenery in Northern Ireland.
Paddle or Pedal into Your Day with Life Adventure Centre
Kickstart your day with a burst of outdoor fun at Life Adventure Centre, Castlewellan. Choose from mountain biking, e-biking, kayaking, canoeing or SUP sessions — perfect for couples who love nature and want to try something new together.
- eBikes are ideal for cruising forest trails or coastal paths without breaking too much of a sweat.
- Kayaking and canoeing offer peaceful moments on the water surrounded by the Mourne Mountains’ beauty.
Book your adventure: Life Adventure Centre - Castlewellan - Visit Mourne Mountains
Lunch Stop: Pop into Hillyard House Hotel, Castlewellan, where local flavours meet warm hospitality. Stay a little longer and turn your day out into a mini break in the heart of the Mournes. Hillyard House Hotel - Castlewellan - Visit Mourne Mountains
Face Your Fears with East Coast Adventure, Rostrevor
If your idea of romance involves adrenaline, head to East Coast Adventure near Rostrevor for an unforgettable couples’ challenge. From zip-lines and climbing towers to kayaking tours, banana boating, and wet river bouldering — it’s all about teamwork, laughter, and a touch of daring.
After your adventure, unwind in pure tranquillity at Revive Saunas & Hot Tubs Wellness Experience - Rostrevor - Visit Mourne Mountains, Rostrevor. Relax in a wood-fired sauna, soak in a mountain-view hot tub, or plunge into a natural spring pool — the perfect way to end your high-energy morning.
Plan your visit: East Coast Adventure Centre - Rostrevor - Visit Mourne Mountains
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Donkey Date Night in Ballynahinch
Get ready for a truly unique experience as you spend a delightful 2 hour session with Kinedale Donkeys on your Donkey Date Night - Ballynahinch
The event kicks off with a fun-filled speed dating session where you'll get the chance to meet their adorable donkeys and learn of their personalities and funny stories, you'll also be treated to a relaxing meditation session with our playful pygmy goats, allowing you to unwind and soak up the serene surroundings.
Refuel nearby: Head to the cosy Gilmore Restaurant based in the Millbrook Hotel offering locally inspired dishes with the option to make a romantic night away — Millbrook Lodge Hotel -
Cycle or Stroll the Stunning Carlingford Lough Greenway
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Take things down a notch with a romantic cycle or walk along the Carlingford Lough Greenway — one of Ireland’s most scenic off-road trails. Stretching from Newry City to the medieval village of Carlingford, this 20km route runs alongside the lough, offering panoramic views of the Mourne Mountains, Cooley Peninsula, and tranquil coastal waters. Carlingford Lough Greenway - Newry
Dinner Stop: Treat yourselves to a delicious meal at the Old Mill Restaurant, Canal Court Hotel, Newry. With its elegant setting and locally sourced menu, it’s the perfect way to end your adventure date in style. Canal Court Hotel and Spa - Newry
Chanel Your Inner Lord or Lady at Castle Ward
Arrange to arrive for one of the guided tours to discover the history and the reason for the eccentric decor of this 18th century mansion.
Explore the grounds further with a walk or hire a bike from reception, seek out the cultivated gardens, man made canal or head to the Lough Shore to find one of the Game of Thrones locations. After building up your appetite, drive to nearby Strangford village for a well-earned feast at the award-winning The Cuan , known for fresh local seafood and luxurious accommodation—perfect for ending your day like royalty.
Make It a Weekend to Remember
With so many outdoor activities, scenic trails, and top-class restaurants to explore, why stop at one day? Stay in a cosy glamping pod, luxury hotel, or countryside cottage in the Mournes and enjoy a romantic getaway filled with adventure, food, and relaxation.
Discover places to stay: Accommodation | The Official Tourism Website
The Adventure Date You Didn’t Know You Needed
Swap screens for scenery and routine for romance!
Whether it’s your first date or your hundredth, Mourne Gullion Strangford offers adventure, laughter, and the perfect backdrop for lasting memories.
So pack a flask, lace up your walking boots, and plan a date full of stories you’ll still be laughing about years from now.
Get inspired for more adventure dates here
Epic adventures are on offer all year round at Life Adventure Centre. Their extensive range of activities include mountain biking, stand-up paddleboarding, wet bouldering, rock climbing, sit on top kayaking, coasteering, electric biking and open canoeing - something for everyone!
A wonderful award winning boutique hotel located beside the entrance gates to the stunning Castlewellan Forest Park in the historic market town of Castlewellan, near the seaside resort of Newcastle. Hillyard House Hotel, The Yard Restaurant and Mrs Coleman's Bar have everything to make your stay cosy, culinary and great craic.
Revive Saunas, Natural Spring Mountain Spa. Where breathtaking views of the Knockbarragh Valley in the Mourne Mountains create the perfect setting for rejuvenation.
Escape your busy life with a break in the wonderful Mourne Mountains or Carlingford Lough, we can help you relax and recharge the batteries.
Explore one of Ireland's most scenic greenways, the Carlingford Lough Greenway, stretching from the heart of Newry City to the medieval village of Carlingford. The Carlingford Lough Greenway follows the former railway line along the coast of Carlingford Lough, offering stunning views of the Mourne Mountains, Cooley Peninsula, and tranquil waterscapes. This off-road trail is ideal for walking, running, and cycling, whether you're planning a family day out, a weekend cycle, or a peaceful solo stroll.
The Canal Court Hotel & Spa is a fine four star property, with a total of 110 bedrooms & suites, extensive Health & Leisure Complex and stunning Spa, perfectly located in the heart of the City close to both Bus & Rail Stations.
Enjoy fresh, home cooked food in the opulent surroundings of the Old Mill Restaurant where our dedicated team of servers will ensure that you have a truly special dining experience.
Join Robert and his 25 therapy-trained donkeys for wellness and heritage experiences. You are welcomed to his family's farm in Ballynahinch, in the heart of County Down. Take a breather with Goat Meditation or explore the rolling "drumlins" with a Donkey Trek.
Welcome to "Date with a Donkey" at our charming farm in Ballynahinch! Get ready for a truly unique and unforgettable experience as you spend a delightful 2-hour session with our lovely donkeys.
Country manor set in the heart of County Down. All rooms are en suite with televisions and tea and coffee making facilities. In close proximity to many centres offering both indoor and outdoor sports, including golf, fishing, pony trekking.
The success of The Cuan has been built on consistently serving excellent food and drink coupled with exceptional customer service. A strong emphasis is placed on using fresh ingredients and sourcing our produce locally. Stay over in our bedrooms.
Discover a place of contrasts and creativity at Castle Ward, an eccentric 18th century mansion and estate looking out over the tranquil waters of Strangford Lough in County Down where visitors can explore cultivated gardens, sheltered woodland and the shoreline.
