Ballymacdermott Court Tomb, Ring of Gullion
The Ring of Gullion - Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
The Ring of Gullion is a unique geological landform, unparalleled elsewhere in Ireland or the UK and was the first ring dyke in the world to be geologically mapped. The ring of low, rugged hills forms a ‘rampart’ around the heather-clad Slieve Gullion mountain. Rich semi-wild habitats of heath, bog and woodland contrast with the neatly patterned fields and ladder farms.
Slieve Gullion’s mysterious reputation arises from its associations with legends and the wider area’s rich archaeological heritage. The area sits to the north of the Northern Ireland border with the Republic of Ireland and it shares many landscape characteristics with the adjacent area of County Louth.
The Ring of Gullion Scenic Drives, Cycle and Walking Routes
The Ring of Gullion offers a variety of opportunities for visitors to enjoy the countryside. Walkers and cyclists can follow a number of routes ranging in length and difficulty all of which give users the chance to explore the geology, archaeology, wildlife and legends of the area.
Anglers are also catered for and can enjoy high quality game and coarse angling at a number of premier locations. For equestrian enthusiasts, there are two centrally located equestrian centres, one near Mullaghbane and the other at Forkhill. A jetty for watersports is also available at Cam Lough.
For information on the Scenic Drives, Cycling and Walking Routes including maps and Audio guides visit the Driving and Walking Guides page on the Ring of Gullion website.
Slieve Gullion Forest Park
Slieve Gullion Forest Park offers the chance to explore nature with public facilities close at hand. Enjoy an eight mile scenic drive, Hawthorn Hill Forest Nature Reserve and woodland trail or the ornamental walled garden before returning to the Courtyard Centre where refreshments and toilet facilities are available.
A way-marked trail leads from the scenic drive to the south summit of Slieve Gullion, continuing on to Cailleach Beara’s Lough and down the north side of the mountain. There are stunning views form the top of the mountain across the Ring of Gullion, Mourne Mountains, Cooley Peninsula and Armagh Drumlins.
Visit www.ringofgullion.org for more information on the Ring of Gullion.
Download the Ring of Gullion Map and Brochure here: Ring of Gullion Map and Brochure PDF