Hi everyone. It gives me great pleasure this week to arrive in County Down in the north of Ireland. So hard to choose just a few highlights in this beautiful place with its awesome mountains, beautiful coastline and lush rolling landscapes but here goes!
County Down Highlights
1. Downpatrick
We’ll begin at the place where St. Patrick began and ended his journey in Ireland. Downpatrick is the home of the wonderfully informative Saint Patrick Center which is well worth a visit. Saul Church is also a must see which marks the location of St. Patrick’s first church in Ireland. Downpatrick is also the final resting place of Ireland’s patron saint at Down Cathedral pictured above illuminated in festive green for St. Patrick’s Day.
2. Scrabo Tower
Scrabo Tower was built in 1857 as a lookout tower and is one of the most recognizable landmarks in counties Down & Antrim. It stands on top of Scrabo hill in Newtownards and commands stunning views of the surrounding countryside and Strangford Lough.
3. Ballynoe Stone Circle
Time for a trip to megalithic Ireland now. It is believed it may date back to 3000 BC. The ring has been described as one of the most impressive in Europe and is 33 meters wide consisting of 50 standing stones. Standing in this circle is a truly awe-inspiring experience and well worth a visit.
4. Mourne Mountains
This stunning mountain range is surely the jewel in the crown of County Down. The highest peak is Slieve Donard, standing at 2790 feet. On a clear day you can see as far as the Isle of Man, mountains in the Lake District in England and Snowdonia in Wales. A wonderland for hikers and rock climbers, the Mournes also provided the inspiration for the Narnia books by C.S. Lewis.
5. Mount Stewart
We end our journey in one of Ireland’s finest gardens. This place is a real joy to behold and has earned the accolade of one of the top 10 gardens in the world. Among the many themed gardens in the estate is the stunning Shamrock garden, inspired by Irish mythology. Beautifully situated on the banks of the scenic and picturesque Strangford Lough.
As always, thank you so much for your company on the virtual road. See you next time!
Take care of yourselves and each other,
Slán go fóill!
Lulu.
