Top 9 Natural Monuments around Ballintemple
Best natural monuments around Ballintemple offer a diverse range of natural and historical sites. This region, despite its name, features significant natural monuments primarily located in areas like County Armagh, Northern Ireland, rather than directly within the Cork suburb. Visitors can explore ancient geological formations, historical sites, and unique landscapes. The area provides opportunities for nature observation and experiencing varied terrain.
Best natural monuments around Ballintemple
- The most popular natural monument is Slieve Gullion Summit, a volcano that features…
Last updated: June 30, 2026
Slieve Gullion Summit
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North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough
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Druids' Circle, Ravensdale Forest
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The Witch Sculpture
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Calliagh Beara Lough
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Druid’s Circle, Clermont Estate: this small oval stone circle above the Flurry River, marked as both “Standing Stone” and “Druids Circle” on old maps, was likely uncovered in 1840 by Lord Clermont. Though some believe it’s prehistoric, others argue it may be 19th-century landscaping. Its irregular layout and re-set stones cast doubt on its authenticity. Still, it’s a scenic and mysterious woodland stop.
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In the middle of the forest, you suddenly find yourself standing in front of a bizarre stone creature - the "witch". She looks as if she has just risen from the mossy ground, with a mischievous smile and deep, expressive wrinkles on her face. This artfully designed stone is one of those unexpected encounters that transform the forest into a small adventure land. When you explore this magical place surrounded by old trees and whispering leaves, it almost seems as if the witch is greeting you with a wink. Here you can linger for a moment, enjoy the silence and let your imagination run wild - who knows what stories this forest still has to tell?
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Hidden in Ravensdale Forest, off the main paths, you come across a mystical stone circle that raises questions: Was it the Druids who held their mysterious rituals here, or was it the eccentric 19th century landowner who wanted to immortalize himself with this project? Nobody knows for sure, and that makes this place all the more fascinating. The eight stones, arranged in an oval, seem like silent witnesses to a time long gone. On the maps, the circle is referred to as both the 'Standing Stone' and the 'Druids Circle', and you immediately sense that this place exudes a special aura. The stone circle is just a short climb from the Flurry River, in the middle of the old Lord Clermont Estate. Up here, in the shade of the trees, it feels like you have entered another world. The stones, covered in moss, invite you to pause and enjoy the tranquility of the forest.
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As soon as you cross the gentle ridge of Slieve Gullion, the North Cairn stretches out before you - a slightly smaller hill than its southern neighbour, but no less impressive. The stones that gather here seem like silent sentinels, witnesses of the distant Bronze Age. Two ancient stone boxes were once found here during excavations, which lay hidden in the depths of history. The North Cairn, with its diameter of around 18 metres, invites you to pause for a moment and enjoy the peace. But it is not just the Cairn that is fascinating. Right next to it lies "Calliagh Beara's Lough", a quiet mountain lake that, according to legend, is the home of the witch Beara. On a clear day, the sky is reflected in the calm waters and you can almost feel the ancient magic of this place coming to life. The road here may be rocky, but the landscape rewards with sweeping views and a touch of mysticism that makes Slieve Gullion something special.
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This stone circle, marked on the OSI map as ‘Standing Stone' & on the Historic map as 'Druids Circle', is located 100m east, uphill from the Flurry River (Glais Ghallaigh), in woods on the old Lord Clermont Estate. The circle consists of eight regularly spaced stones enclosing an oval area. https://www.megalithicmonumentsofireland.com/COUNTIES/LOUTH/RavensdalePark_StoneCircle.html
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This small forest at the foot of Slieve Gullion seems to be straight out of a fairy tale. Running through it will leave you enchanted, and you'll come across curious sculptures like this giant witch's face.
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This lough, located between the northern and southern burial cairns of Slieve Gullion, is the highest in Northern Ireland.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most notable natural monuments to visit around Ballintemple?
The region, primarily in County Armagh, Northern Ireland, offers several significant natural monuments. Among them, the Slieve Gullion Summit stands out as an extinct volcano featuring the highest Passage Tomb in the British Isles, offering extensive views. Another must-see is the North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough, a historical site with a Bronze Age cairn and a quiet mountain lake.
Are there any historical or ancient sites among the natural monuments?
Yes, several natural monuments in the area have significant historical elements. The Slieve Gullion Summit hosts the highest Passage Tomb in the British Isles. Additionally, the North Cairn of Slieve Gullion contains Bronze Age stone boxes. You can also explore the intriguing Druids' Circle in Ravensdale Forest, a mysterious stone circle with an unclear history.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see at these monuments?
Visitors can experience a diverse range of natural features. Slieve Gullion is an extinct volcano offering panoramic views. You'll find serene mountain lakes like Calliagh Beara Lough, which is the highest in Northern Ireland, and it's located near the North Cairn of Slieve Gullion. Lush woodlands are also present, such as those surrounding the Druids' Circle in Ravensdale Forest.
Are there family-friendly natural monuments or activities in the area?
Yes, the area offers options suitable for families. The forest at the foot of Slieve Gullion, where you can find The Witch Sculpture, is described as enchanting and artistic, making it a fun discovery for children. Many of the easier hiking routes around Slieve Gullion are also suitable for families.
What outdoor activities can I do near these natural monuments?
The region provides excellent opportunities for outdoor activities. You can enjoy various easy hikes, including the Giant's Lair Trail and loops around Slieve Gullion Summit. For cyclists, there are numerous routes, from general cycling tours like the Ring of Gullion loop to dedicated road cycling routes around Newry and Gosford Park.
Are there hiking trails near the natural monuments?
Absolutely. The area around Slieve Gullion offers a variety of hiking trails. You can find several easy hikes, including loops around the Slieve Gullion Summit and the North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough. The path to the south cairn of Slieve Gullion is well-defined, though some sections between cairns can be softer underfoot.
What do visitors enjoy most about the natural monuments in this region?
Visitors frequently appreciate the extensive views from places like Slieve Gullion Summit and the sense of history found at the ancient cairns. The tranquility of mountain lakes such as Calliagh Beara Lough and the mystical atmosphere of sites like the Druids' Circle are also highly valued. The unique blend of geological, historical, and natural beauty, often within an urban context, makes these sites particularly interesting.
Is Beaumont Quarry in Cork City considered a natural monument in this guide?
While Beaumont Quarry in Cork City is a significant natural monument with geological and ecological importance, this guide primarily focuses on natural monuments located in County Armagh, Northern Ireland, such as those around Slieve Gullion, as stated in the introduction.
What is the terrain and difficulty like for exploring these natural monuments?
The terrain varies. Ascents to summits like Slieve Gullion can be challenging, with well-defined rock stairways in some parts but also softer, wetter sections. Many highlights are rated as 'intermediate' or 'challenging'. However, there are also easy hiking routes available, particularly in the surrounding forest parks.
Are there any unique geological features to observe?
Yes, the region is rich in geological interest. Slieve Gullion is an extinct volcano, offering insights into ancient volcanic activity. While not directly covered by the guide's highlights, the broader region of Cork, for example, features exposed limestone bedrock and karstification in places like Beaumont Quarry, showcasing geological heritage.
Can I find viewpoints with scenic vistas?
Absolutely. The Slieve Gullion Summit is renowned for its extensive, all-around fantastic views. The North Cairn of Slieve Gullion also offers sweeping views of the surrounding landscape, making it a rewarding spot for photographers and nature lovers.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter?
The diverse habitats around these natural monuments support various wildlife. While specific details for the guide's highlights are limited, natural areas in the broader region, such as Beaumont Quarry, are known to host a wide array of flora and fauna, including rare plant species, numerous insect species (like bumblebees and butterflies), various bird species, and mammals, including bats.
Most popular attractions around Ballintemple
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