5 Explore the fascinating geology
Learn about the unique geosites in the geopark shaped by the earth’s dynamic forces over millions of years. Take a guided tour such as The Cloughmore Experience or download the interactive map and begin your exploration of natural wonders from glacial deposits to rivers, dunes and mountain granites. Get up close with the geology on a hands-on experience of searching for gold in the Mourne Mountains.
6 Sip a sample of artisan spirit
Take a tour of Rademon Estate Distillery and taste their award-winning Shortcross gin made from wild botanicals foraged in the nearby fields. Or visit Killowen Distillery to find out how it uses traditional processes to produce its range of fine craft spirits. Why not combine an electric bike experience in the mountains with a stop at Whitewater brewery on a Mourne Trails & Ales Tour.
7 Wander through forest parks
The geopark has several beautiful forest parks with gorgeous walks and bike trails. Castlewellan Forest Park has an outstanding tree and shrub collection and the world’s largest permanent hedge maze. At Tollymore Forest Park in the Mournes you can see Game of Thrones shoot locations while Slieve Gullion Forest Park is the home of children’s favourite, Fionn’s Giant Adventure.
8 Relax and unwind
Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark is the perfect place to unwind and there are many experiences that will help you do just that. Relax in a Mourne hot barrel sauna overlooking Cranfield beach, or reconnect with nature on a YMCA Wild Fire & Jam Experience where you will learn the ancient art of bushcraft.
9 Get up close to nature
Animal lovers should head to Murlough National Nature Reserve where a wide range of flora and fauna can be seen including 23 species of butterfly, many types of birds and wildfowls, seals, and cattle, ponies and rabbits. Elsewhere, you can go birdwatching with Red Kite Tours, take a walk on the beach with an alpaca or enjoy a Donkey Trail through Time.
10 Have a foodie experience
Indulge your tastebuds. Learn how to make Irish wheaten bread at Mrs C’s Home Kitchen, see artisan chocolate being made at a Neary Nógs craft chocolate experience or enjoy a secret dining experience with a master chef in an unknown destination. On the Tide to Table Taste Tour, you can forage for seaweed before sampling the finest oysters, crab and mussels, while the Foraging and Farming through the Ages experience takes you back in time to learn about ancient farming practices and taste wild food as you walk on Slieve Gullion.
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