Glencar Lake and Waterfall, Co. Sligo
Straddling the border of Sligo and Leitrim lie Glencar Lake and Waterfall, a series of dramatic steep cliffs and cascading waterfalls. Glencar Waterfall itself is perhaps the most dramatic, descending from a 50 foot rocky headland into a deep pool below in a haze of white spray. The walk will take approximately 2 hours.
Stay in Coopershill, Co. Sligo
Coopershill, with its wonderful paths leading through acres of woods and deer pastures, is a walker's paradise. They will provide guidebooks with marked walking routes for the more adventurous. Coopershill will pack you a picnic for your adventures too!
Drumnaph Wood, Co. Derry
This beautiful ancient woodland is one of the few remaining fragments of a great forest that once covered much of mid-Ulster. Throughout the year, Drumnaph Wood’s varied mix of habitats is a joy to explore. Whether you are interested in timeless woodland, excellent walks or fascinating cultural connections, Drumnaph Wood is well worth a visit.
Stay in Ardtara Country House, Co. Derry
Set amidst 10 wooded acres, Ardtara is an elegant 19th-century mansion in the heart of Northern Ireland. Just 15 minutes from Seamus Heaney HomePlace and within 45 minutes of both Belfast & Derry, the Giant’s Causeway, the Antrim coast, Royal Portrush golf club and many Game of Thrones film locations, it’s the perfect base from which to explore.
Hillsborough Forest, Co. Antrim
Hillsborough Forest offers visitors 150 acres of mixed woodland and historic landscape in which they can walk and relax with nature. Bird life is rich and varied and larger mammals, including foxes and badgers, also inhabit the forest. Fishing, by permit only, is also possible here. Within Hillsborough Forest, the 17th century Hillsborough Fort can be seen, built on the sight of an old stronghold, founded in 1630. The forest is open from dawn till dusk every day, except the first Sunday in January. Admission and car parking is free.
Stay in Newforge House, Co. Antrim
Whether you just want a gentle amble along country lanes or a rigorous trek over hills and mountains, there are plenty of options. Newforge is set in 50 acres of pasture that run along the River Lagan. You are welcome to borrow wellies for a walk in the fields and along the riverbanks. Locally, there are quiet country lanes and canal towpaths to explore. Lurgan, Moira and Hillsborough Parks all offer lovely walks along managed pathways.
Deerpark Forest Walk, Co. Cavan
In the mainly broadleaf forest, where many of the older trees were planted over 100 years ago by the estates original landowner, Marquis of Headfort, the looped walking trails are well mapped and marked. Tranquil rivers, bridges, old boat houses and stunning views of the lake can be enjoyed all year round.
Stay in Virginia Park Lodge, Co. Cavan
There are four main walks that cover various aspects of the Virginia Park gardens and grounds: The Woodland and Avenue Walk, The Devils Corner Walk, The Boat House Walk, and The Well Walk. Walking times range from a leisurely 20 minute stroll to a more strenuous two hour wander. Enjoy direct access to hectares of forest walks straight from the your Woodland Hut door.
Rossmore Forest Park, Co. Monaghan
The lands which comprise Rossmore Forest Park were formerly part of the barony of Rossmore. A castle was constructed here in 1827 with various extensions being added over the years, the ruins of which can still be seen in the park. As with many estates of the time, Rossmore fell into decline during the mid 20th century, and the estate was subsequently divided among the local farmers, with the Irish Forestry Division acquiring the forested areas. Rossmore Castle was demolished in 1974.
Stay in Castle Leslie Estate, Co. Monaghan
With its 1,000 acres of undulating Irish countryside, ancient woodlands and glittering lakes, Castle Leslie Estate is a picturesque rural destination for those in search of an outdoor experience. There are a variety of exceptional walks, from short jaunts to long leisurely strolls, both on the estate grounds, around the village of Glaslough and in the local area.