The best walks and hikes around Ringmackilroy

Carlingford Heritage Centre - Churchyard Rd - 0429373454 - www.carlingfordheritagecentre.com. Housed in a former medieval church restored by volunteers, this cultural centre offers insights into Carlingford's history. It hosts temporary exhibitions and various cultural events.

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.

A super stop off on the greenway. 4.2km from the start of the greenway in Carlingford. delicious food, cooffee, scones etc and free fruit flavoured water.

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.

The Viewpoint Trail takes you from Fiddlers Green through an enchanted landscape that takes you to the impressive Cloghmór Stone. The path is narrow and interspersed with moss-covered trees that create a mystical atmosphere, especially when the sun breaks through the dense branches. It is one of those trails that is best explored in dry conditions, as the ground can otherwise become quite slippery. Once at the top, you will be treated to stunning views over the water and the surrounding hills. The clear air and wide views invite you to pause for a moment and simply enjoy the moment. On the way back, you have the opportunity to wander through Fiddlers Green and soak up the peaceful atmosphere of this place. All along the path you will find rubbish bins to keep nature clean - a nice detail that shows respect for this place. When you look out over the valley, you will understand why this trail is a popular destination for hikers who want to leave the hustle and bustle behind and be inspired by nature.

Carlingford Heritage Centre (2024-07-30): https://carlingfordheritagecentre.com/ National Built Heritage Service (Carlingford Heritage Centre, Old Church Road, Tholsel Street, LIBERTIES OF CARLINGFORD, Carlingford, LOUTH, 2024-07-30): https://www.buildingsofireland.ie/buildings-search/building/13825040/carlingford-heritage-centre-old-church-road-tholsel-street-liberties-of-carlingford-carlingford-co-louth Reg No: 13825040

National Built Heritage Service (Carlingford Railway Station, LIBERTIES OF CARLINGFORD, Carlingford, LOUTH, 2024-07-30): https://www.buildingsofireland.ie/buildings-search/building/13825042/carlingford-railway-station-liberties-of-carlingford-carlingford-co-louth Reg No: 13825042 Wikipedia (Dundalk, Newry and Greenore Railway, 2024-07-30): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dundalk,_Newry_and_Greenore_Railway Tourist Office (2024-07-30): https://www.carlingford.ie/about-us "... Carlingford.ie and the Tourist Office is operated by Carlingford Lough Heritage Trust. ..."