Top 9 Natural Monuments around Ballynalack
Best natural monuments around Ballynalack offer a blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and outdoor exploration. The region is characterized by its volcanic landscape, ancient burial sites, and diverse woodlands, particularly within the Ring of Gullion Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. These sites provide opportunities to engage with local mythology and geological features. Visitors can explore a variety of natural settings, from mountain summits to forest trails.
Best natural monuments around Ballynalack
- The most popular natural monuments is Slieve Gullion…
Last updated: June 30, 2026
Slieve Gullion Summit
Highlight • Volcano
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North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough
Highlight • Summit
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Druids' Circle, Ravensdale Forest
Highlight • Historical Site
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The Witch Sculpture
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Calliagh Beara Lough
Highlight • Lake
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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 unique natural features can I explore among Ballynalack's natural monuments?
The natural monuments around Ballynalack, particularly within the Ring of Gullion Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offer a diverse range of features. You can explore the volcanic landscape of Slieve Gullion Summit, which is the core of an ancient, extinct volcano. There are also serene mountain lakes like Calliagh Beara Lough, the highest in Northern Ireland, and extensive woodlands such as Ravensdale Forest.
Are there historical or archaeological sites among the natural monuments?
Yes, the region is rich in history and mythology. On Slieve Gullion Summit, you'll find the highest surviving Neolithic passage grave in Ireland, the Southern Cairn, and a Bronze Age burial chamber at the North Cairn of Slieve Gullion. Additionally, Ravensdale Forest hosts the intriguing Druids' Circle, a stone circle with debated origins.
When is the best time to visit the natural monuments around Ballynalack?
The natural monuments are beautiful year-round, but for the best hiking conditions and panoramic views, spring and summer offer clearer skies and milder weather. Autumn provides stunning foliage, especially in forested areas like Ravensdale Forest. Visiting during the winter solstice offers a unique experience at the Slieve Gullion passage grave, which aligns with the setting sun.
Are there family-friendly natural monuments around Ballynalack?
Absolutely! The Giant's Lair within Slieve Gullion Forest Park is a multi-award-winning outdoor attraction designed as a magical living storybook, perfect for families and children. It features fairy houses, sleeping dragons, and art installations that bring local legends to life. The Witch Sculpture is also a fun, family-friendly feature within the forest.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near these natural monuments?
The area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking, cycling, and running. For example, there are easy hikes like the Giant's Lair Trail, moderate cycling routes such as the 'Giant's Lair – View of Slieve Gullion loop from Meigh', and running trails like the 'Camlough Lake running loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the cycling, easy hikes, and running guides for Ballynalack.
What are the typical trail lengths or difficulties for exploring these natural monuments?
Trail lengths and difficulties vary. For instance, the ascent to Slieve Gullion Summit can be challenging, but there are also easier options like the 'Slieve Gullion Summit loop from Ring of Gullion AONB' which is around 2.7 km. The Giant's Lair Trail is an easy 4.1 km walk. Ravensdale Forest offers many kilometers of forest roads and tracks suitable for various fitness levels. Always check specific route details for accurate distances and elevation.
Is parking available at the natural monuments?
Yes, parking is generally available at key access points. For example, there is ample parking at the Slieve Gullion Viewing Platform, which serves as a starting point for hikes to Slieve Gullion Summit. Ravensdale Forest also provides parking facilities for visitors exploring the Druids' Circle and other trails.
Are the natural monuments around Ballynalack accessible for everyone, including those with limited mobility?
While some areas, particularly mountain summits like Slieve Gullion, involve steep and rocky terrain, other sites offer more accessible options. The Giant's Lair in Slieve Gullion Forest Park is designed with family-friendly trails, though specific wheelchair accessibility may vary. It's advisable to check the specific trail conditions for each monument if you have mobility concerns.
Are the natural monuments around Ballynalack dog-friendly?
Many outdoor areas, including forest parks and mountain trails, are generally dog-friendly, especially if dogs are kept on a leash. For instance, Ravensdale Forest and the trails around Slieve Gullion are popular with dog walkers. However, always be mindful of local signage and regulations, particularly around livestock or sensitive archaeological sites.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the natural monuments in Ballynalack?
Visitors frequently praise the breathtaking panoramic views from Slieve Gullion Summit, which can stretch across the Irish Sea. The rich history and mythology associated with sites like the ancient burial cairns and Druids' Circle are also highly valued. Families especially love the enchanting and interactive experience at the Giant's Lair.
Can I spot wildlife at the natural monuments?
Yes, the diverse landscapes, from mountain heathlands to mixed woodlands, provide habitats for various wildlife. You might spot birds of prey soaring above Slieve Gullion, and smaller mammals or woodland birds within Ravensdale Forest. Keep an eye out for local flora and fauna as you explore the trails.
Are there facilities like cafes or restrooms near the natural monuments?
While facilities might not be directly at every monument, areas like Slieve Gullion Forest Park, which hosts the Giant's Lair, typically offer visitor amenities including restrooms and sometimes cafes or picnic areas. It's always a good idea to bring your own refreshments, especially for longer hikes to more remote sites like the summit cairns.
Most popular attractions around Ballynalack
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