Experience
a memorable 3 or 6 days riding across the incredible Mountains
of Mourne. Distinctive and self contained, the Mountains are tucked away in
the south east corner of Northern Ireland. Twelve shapely summits, which rise
2000 ft on the eastern side, they dominate the landscape. The Mountains of Mourne
Trail will take you to the foot of the mountains, past ancient ruins, through
nature reserves and on to golden beaches. You will then ride over Slieve Na Slatt
Mountain and Hares Gap, all of the time experiencing the beauty of this truly
wonderful landscape.
|
Tour 1
|
3 days riding and 4 nights country house accommodation
including afternoon sight-seeing tour, daily transfers, all meals
|
|
Tour 2
|
6 days riding and 7 nights country house accommodation
including afternoon sight-seeing tour, daily transfers, all meals
|
Your week ahead .....
Saturday You will arrive, settle in and wind down from your travels.
Sunday Assemble at Drumgooland House, Downpatrick, Co. Down where you will
meet your guide and horse for the week. You will be briefed on the week ahead
and your riding experience discussed. Then out for an hour and a half ride in
the countryside around Loughinisland Lake, to enable you to get to know your horse.
After lunch at Drumgooland House, another ride in the forest.
Monday The trail heads towards the foot of the Mourne Mountains passing
the ancient ruins of Dundrum Castle, then through the Nature Reserve at Murlough
to the golden sands of Newcastle beach, overlooked by Slieve Donard. From here
head for the stable yard in Castlewellan, where the horses will be fed and tucked
in for the night.
Tuesday Spend four and a half hours in Tollymore Forest at the bottom of
Slieve Donard, viewing the splendid waterfalls and unspoilt scenic views.
Wednesday On this half day trail, visit the estate of the Annesley family.
Ride over Slieve Na Slatt Mountain, overlooking the castle and lakes. En route
to the stables, pass along Crows Lane, affording a perfect view of the Mountains
of Mourne sweeping down to the sea. The afternoon is free for shopping or if you
choose, a short sight-seeing trip to the ancient town of Downpatrick, where St
Patrick is buried.
Thursday The trail visits the picturesque village of Bryansford, winding
its way along Tressy Pad, used by smugglers in bygone days. Then on to Hares Gap
and an outstanding view over the Drumlins of Co. Down
Friday Leave Castlewellan, passing through the quaint village of Maghera,
making your way to the sandy beach at Dundrum, for a last canter along the beach.
On the way home, pass the remains of the Tullymurry Railway Station, and back
to Drumgooland House.
Saturday Departure after breakfast.