4 minute read

Mournes & Strangford

yourself breathtaking views with Surround SUP-Nic, Bangor Co. Down

Great Value Short

Breaks

Mount Stewart House and Gardens, Co. Down

SUP-Nic with SUP Hub Bangor

Astride your stand-up paddleboard (SUP), join the folks at SUP Hub in Bangor for a truly unique day out. Together with foodie haven Guillemot Kitchen Café and Deli, their experiential SUP-Nic picnic experience on the open water is a must! Suitable for all paddler levels, the focus is firmly on enjoying the experience, stunning scenery - and the food!

Pickie Fun Park

As the name suggests, Pickie Fun Park offers lots of fun for all the family. Let the little ones loose in the Adventure Playground, enjoy the watery fun of the Splash Pads or climb aboard the Pickie Puffer for a railway journey around the colourful landscape. All the family can pedal a giant Pickie Swan and share a round of Pickie Golf. And why not enjoy an ice-cream or refreshing drink from the Candy Shack or stay for a scrumptious lunch in the Pickie Café?.

Pickie Fun Park, Co. Down Narnia Trail, Co. Down

Mount Stewart House and Gardens

You can enjoy stunning views over the water with a stop at the beautiful Mount Stewart House and Gardens. Wander around the award-winning gardens, then have a stroll in the stately home.

Exploris Aquarium

Before taking the ferry across the Lough to Strangford, be sure to pay a visit to the Exploris Aquarium and seal sanctuary. Get a fascinating diver’s view of marine life from around the globe and get a chance to meet their newest residents – fourteen Humboldt Penguins! After splashing about, you can relax and refuel at their new outdoor picnic area.

The Portaferry Hotel

If you’re looking to stay somewhere scenic, The Portaferry Hotel is as picturesque as they come. Situated on the stunning shores of Strangford Lough, the hotel’s

Exploris Aquarium & Seal Sanctuary, Co. Down Newcastle, Co. Down Fairy River, Co. Down

14 bedrooms are individually decorated and boast antique furniture. And if you appreciate a bit of luxury, you’ll love their Poster Rooms – each decked out with Nespresso machines, robes and slippers.

Castle Ward Foraging

Fancy some foraging? Join forager Clare McQuillan on a walk through the Castle Ward estate to discover the seasonal abundance of wild food. Explore a world of uniquely edible coastal plants, fruits, trees and maybe even some fungi. You’ll also learn some delicious ways to use them in your home cooking!

Life Adventure Centre

If you’re seeking thrills and want to experience the Mournes by land and water, then Life Adventure Centre in Castlewellan is your kind of place. Go on a fully guided mountain biking experience through the magnificent Mourne Mountains or take the family kayaking on Castlewellan lake. With options for guided tours and rental services available, you will want to go with the flow and take on the lake and mountain trails.

Newcastle

With the magical Mourne Mountains as a backdrop, the seaside town of Newcastle is in a pretty spectacular location, and definitely worth a visit. This is the ‘Narnia’ land that inspired Belfast-born C.S. Lewis to open that wardrobe, after all. Those who enjoy a dip can dive into Tropicana, Newcastle's outdoor heated leisure pool. To ensure that the toddlers are not forgotten, there's even a paddling pool and an Ellie the Elephant slide.

The Old School House Rostrevor

This cosy coffee house and bistro is well worth a visit if you happen to find yourself in the beautiful village of Rostrevor. Hungry walkers and cyclists seem to naturally gravitate towards The Old School House – and why wouldn’t they with the range of tasty goodies on their lunch, afternoon tea, Sunday lunch and evening menus.

Cranfield Alpacas

If you’re a lover of animals, you’ve got to meet and greet the gentle alpacas at Cranfield Alpacas near Kilkeel. Go on one of the guided tours and get up close and personal with these friendly furry creatures, with stunning panoramic views of the Mourne Mountains as your backdrop.

Fairy River

Based at the foot of Slieve Muck, Fairy River Glamping offers luxurious accommodation right in the heart of the rugged High Mournes. Why not book one of the unique underground mountain houses and enjoy a fun-filled, oncein-a-lifetime experience. You won’t regret it!

The Narnia Trail

If you’re in search of something magical, head east to the land of Narnia: Kilbroney Forest Park in Rostrevor. The Narnia Trail weaves through a forest path with citadels, tree folk and a beaver’s house along the way. The C.S Lewis-inspired trail has no shortage of wonders to keep kids and grown-up kids enthralled.

Dundrum Inn

With the rich history and warmth of an Irish pub, the Dundrum Inn is the perfect spot to grab a pint and have the craic. Just minutes from the Mourne Mountains, step outside and you’ll be swept away with the breath-taking coastal views of Murlough Bay.

Plenty more in the Mournes

With so much natural open space to explore in the surrounding areas of the magnificent Mournes and stunning Strangford Lough, there’s no shortage of amazing outdoor opportunities this summer. From wonderful walks to heart-pumping hikes, this place has it all. But don’t take our word for it, go and see for yourself!

This article is from: