Top 9 Natural Monuments around Lisdrumliska
Natural monuments around Lisdrumliska are primarily found within the Ring of Gullion, a region known for its geological and historical significance. The area features an extinct volcano, ancient burial sites, and megalithic structures. These sites offer insights into prehistoric architecture and provide extensive views of the surrounding landscape. The natural environment blends with historical elements, creating a diverse outdoor experience.
Best natural monuments around Lisdrumliska
- The most popular natural monuments is Slieve Gullion Summit, a volcano that features the…
Last updated: June 30, 2026
Slieve Gullion Summit
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North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough
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Druids' Circle, Ravensdale Forest
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The Witch Sculpture
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Calliagh Beara Lough
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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 are some prominent natural monuments to visit around Lisdrumliska?
The region around Lisdrumliska, particularly within the Ring of Gullion, offers several significant natural monuments. Key sites include the summit of Slieve Gullion, an extinct volcano featuring the highest passage tomb in the British Isles, and the North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough, which includes a Bronze Age cairn and Northern Ireland's highest lough.
Are there any historical or ancient sites among the natural monuments?
Yes, many natural monuments in the area have significant historical and archaeological importance. Slieve Gullion Summit hosts a passage tomb dating back to the Bronze Age. The North Cairn of Slieve Gullion also contains Bronze Age stone boxes. Additionally, the Druids' Circle in Ravensdale Forest is an intriguing historical site with eight regularly spaced stones, though its exact origins are debated.
What kind of views can I expect from the natural monuments?
From the summit of Slieve Gullion, you can enjoy extensive panoramic views across the Cooley Mountains, Carlingford Lough, and Slieve Martin. The elevated positions of many sites within the Ring of Gullion offer sweeping vistas of the surrounding landscape.
Are there family-friendly natural monuments or attractions in the area?
Yes, the region offers options suitable for families. The Witch Sculpture, located within a forest at the foot of Slieve Gullion, is a unique and artistic stone carving that can be an engaging discovery for children. The general forest settings provide pleasant environments for family walks.
What outdoor activities can I do near these natural monuments?
The area around Lisdrumliska is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including the 13 km “Slieve Gullion Walk” which leads to the summit. For cycling enthusiasts, there are routes like the 'Ring of Gullion loop from Newry' or the 'Newry Canal Way Loop'. Mountain biking options are also available, such as the 'Newry, Carnavaddy and Annaloughan Mountain loop'. For more details on routes, explore the Cycling around Lisdrumliska, MTB Trails around Lisdrumliska, and Easy hikes around Lisdrumliska guides.
Are there easy hiking trails to natural monuments for beginners?
Yes, there are easy hiking options. For instance, the 'Bessbrook War Memorial — loop around the Bessbrook Pond' is an easy 4.3 km hike. The 'Newry Ship Canal Fountain – War Memorial Cannon loop from Ballybot' is another easy 2 km route. These trails offer accessible ways to experience the natural beauty of the area. You can find more easy routes in the Easy hikes around Lisdrumliska guide.
What is the highest point or natural feature in the region?
The highest point in the region is the summit of Slieve Gullion, an extinct volcano standing at 573 meters. Additionally, Calliagh Beara Lough, located between the northern and southern burial cairns of Slieve Gullion, holds the distinction of being the highest lough in Northern Ireland.
What is the Ring of Gullion and how does it relate to the natural monuments?
The Ring of Gullion is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and a geological wonder, formed by an extinct volcano. Many of the significant natural monuments around Lisdrumliska, including Slieve Gullion and its associated cairns and loughs, are located within this ring. It's a region rich in both natural beauty and ancient history, featuring numerous megalithic tombs and burial chambers.
Is there parking available for visiting natural monuments?
For Slieve Gullion, there is ample parking space at the Slieve Gullion Viewing Platform, which serves as a common starting point for hikes to the summit.
What do visitors enjoy most about the natural monuments around Lisdrumliska?
Visitors frequently appreciate the blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The panoramic views from Slieve Gullion are a major draw, as is the mystical atmosphere of sites like the Druids' Circle. The unique geological features and ancient burial sites offer a captivating glimpse into the region's past, while the diverse landscapes provide excellent opportunities for outdoor exploration.
Are there any unique natural features besides mountains and loughs?
Beyond the prominent mountains and loughs, the region also features the Druids' Circle in Ravensdale Forest, which, while a historical site, is nestled within a beautiful forest setting. The Newry Ship Canal, though man-made, offers a tranquil environment where nature blends with the historical waterway, providing peaceful walks lined with trees.
Can I find any hidden gems or less-known natural monuments?
While not explicitly 'hidden,' sites like the The Witch Sculpture in the forest at the foot of Slieve Gullion offer an unexpected and artistic surprise. The numerous smaller cairns and megalithic structures scattered throughout the Ring of Gullion, beyond the main highlights, also provide opportunities for discovery.
Most popular attractions around Lisdrumliska
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