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Castle Espie Wetland Centre, Co. Down Mourne Mountains, Co. Down Kilbroney Forest Park, Co. Down

The Portaferry Hotel

If you’re looking to stay somewhere scenic, The Portaferry Hotel (3*) is as picturesque as they come. Situated on the stunning shores of Strangford Lough, the hotel’s 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.

Exploris Aquarium

Before taking the ferry across the Lough to Strangford, be sure to pay a visit to the awesome Exploris Aquarium and seal sanctuary. Get a fascinating diver’s view of marine life around the globe, from the native species in Strangford Lough to the colourful coral reefs of the tropical oceans.

No.14 Georgian House

If you’re after a bit of atmosphere,

No. 14 at the Georgian House

in Comber serves up plenty of it. With cosy hearths, apple trees, centuries of history and a modern take on local cuisine, this place has something to tempt everyone. Well worth a visit or three!

Life Adventure

If you’re seeking thrills, how does shredding some mountain bike single tracks sound? Life Adventure Centre in Castlewellan is your kind of place. Go on a fully-guided mountain biking experience through the magnificent Mourne Mountains, or a self-guided tour in Kilbroney Forest Park, Rostrevor. Whichever option you choose, the Mournes is Northern Ireland’s top mountain bike destination. You can also take it down a gear with their electric bike hire.

Castle Espie Wetland Centre

With wide-open spaces and 60 acres of wetlands full of the sights and sounds of nature, there's plenty to see and do at Castle Espie Wetland Centre. Set on the shores of the stunning Strangford Lough where almost the entire world's population of Brent Geese resides during the autumn and winter months, you’ll get up close

Exploris Aquarium & Seal Sanctuary, Co. Down Walk The Mournes, Co. Down Killowen Distillery Tour, Co. Down

and personal with wild birds and collections of endangered birds from around the world.

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.

Newcastle Town

With the magical Mourne Mountains as a backdrop, Newcastle sits in a pretty spectacular location. There are plenty of cafés, bars and amusements here to keep you entertained. Not to mention a beautiful beachfront that’s perfect for a wonderful winter stroll.

Brunel's

Named after the world's most famous engineer, Brunel's in Newcastle is known for constructing its own impressive dishes. Their mission is to create dishes that challenge and inspire. So, get ready for a bold and creative gourmet menu.

Walk The Mournes

Follow professional mountain man Peter Rafferty on his Men of the Mournes tour as he takes you back to the times when Mourne granite was highly sought after, and the mountains echoed with the sound of handpicks. He captivates you with his stories and legends of local smugglers in their secret caves. Among these magical and majestic mountains, you'll see it's no wonder C.S. Lewis found his inspiration in the Mournes.

Hillyard House Hotel

From modern guest rooms to The Yard restaurant and Mrs. Coleman’s Bar, Hillyard House Hotel is the definition of a cosy, welcoming stay. There’s plenty to explore in the surrounding area, with Castlewellan Forest Park, Whitewater Brewery, and Slieve Croob all nearby. Although you’d be forgiven for just hunkering down and cosying up in the hotel for your entire stay!

Killowen Distillery Tour

Brendan Carty travelled the globe mining for the secrets of distilling premium whiskey. Today, he runs the Killowen Distillery in the heart of the spectacular Mourne Mountains. The distillers at Killowen are a passionate bunch and they explain their unique whiskey making process with gusto. At the end of it all you can try their delicious peated or non-peated dram.

Canal Court Hotel

Sitting on the banks of Ireland’s oldest man-made waterway, you can’t get much more central than Newry’s Canal Court Hotel (4*). Which makes it very convenient for shopping either before or after you’ve indulged in a restorative Germaine de Capuccini treatment in the award-winning spa. Close to the spectacular Mourne Mountains and Ring of Gullion it's just over an hour from Dublin.

The Narnia Trail

If you’re in search of something magical, head west 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.

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 autumn and winter. 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.