Attractions and Places To See around Ballymagart - Top 20

Silent Valley Reservoir, nestled in the Mourne Mountains, is a peaceful retreat surrounded by sweeping granite peaks and heathered slopes. Built in the early 20th century to supply water to Belfast and much of County Down, the reservoir combines striking engineering with natural beauty. Visitors can stroll along well-kept paths, admire the Victorian-style dam and impressive Mourne Wall, or simply enjoy the quiet atmosphere by the lakeshore.

The well-maintained trails take you through impressive scenery, surrounded by the striking peaks of the Mournes. The view of the Mourne Wall, which stretches for 35 kilometers and connects 15 peaks, is particularly impressive. However, some sections can become slippery in wet weather, so caution is advised. A highlight is a visit to Ben Crom Reservoir, which can be reached via an extension of the route. Note that there is a fee to enter the park.

The well-signposted mountain bike trails take you through dense forests and offer breathtaking views of Carlingford Lough and the Mourne Mountains. The descent from the Cloughmore Stone, a huge boulder that was transported here during the last ice age, is a particular highlight. However, some sections are technical and require a certain level of riding technique. The trails can become slippery in wet weather, so caution is advised. Another plus point is the proximity to the charming village of Rostrevor, where you can relax in one of the cafes after the tour.

There’s heaps to do when you visit Kilbroney park so bring a picnic, kids, dogs, bikes, walking boots and enjoy the day. Start at the Visitor Centre and learn about the forest and extraordinary Cloughmore Stone. There are tennis courts, play area, sports fields, an arboretum, walking and bike trails in the forest. Fiddler’s Green was once used for local entertainment and festivals.

The hike to the Cloghmór Stone feels like a journey through time. Over 10,000 years ago, the ice brought this massive granite block from Scotland here, and now, weighing an estimated 50 tons, it towers majestically over the landscape. But it's not just the geology that's fascinating - according to legend, it was the giant Finn McCool who threw this enormous stone over Carlingford Lough. To be honest, the legend is a much more exciting explanation, isn't it? Once you've reached the top, you'll not only be greeted by the imposing boulder, but also by a fantastic view of Carlingford Lough and the surrounding hills. It's the perfect place to pause for a moment, take in the vastness and enjoy the peace that this place exudes.

A beautiful round stone, there is a legend about it but unfortunately we could not find out

There's riverside walks, including the Fairy Glen and Narnia Trail, and an arboretum. The two mile forest path showcases panoramic views over the beautiful Carlingford Lough. There is also a Play Park with children's play area and tennis courts, an Information area and a cafe.

Wikipedia (Carlingford, County Louth, 2023-12-18): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carlingford,_County_Louth https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carlingford Carlingford Lough Heritage Trust (Discover Carlingford & The Cooley Peninsula, 2023-12-18): https://www.carlingford.ie/