Top 9 Natural Monuments around Drumalane
Best natural monuments around Drumalane are situated within a region known for its diverse and historically rich natural landscapes. The area benefits from its proximity to the Mourne Gullion Strangford UNESCO Global Geopark, which includes three distinct Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. These areas feature unique geological formations, ancient volcanic structures, and significant historical sites. Visitors can explore a variety of natural features that showcase millions of years of geological history and human presence.
Best natural monuments around Drumalane
- The…
Last updated: July 27, 2026
Slieve Gullion Summit
Highlight • Volcano
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North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough
Highlight • Summit
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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 types of natural monuments can I explore around Drumalane?
The area around Drumalane is rich in diverse natural monuments, largely due to its location within the Mourne Gullion Strangford UNESCO Global Geopark. You can explore ancient volcanic formations like Slieve Gullion Summit, which features the highest Passage Tomb in the British Isles. There are also historical stone circles such as the Druids' Circle in Ravensdale Forest, and tranquil mountain lakes like Calliagh Beara Lough, the highest lough in Northern Ireland.
Are there any natural monuments with historical significance near Drumalane?
Yes, several natural monuments in the area are steeped in history. Slieve Gullion Summit is home to a significant Passage Tomb. Nearby, the North Cairn of Slieve Gullion held Bronze Age stone boxes. The Druids' Circle in Ravensdale Forest is an intriguing stone circle with an unclear but ancient past. These sites offer a glimpse into thousands of years of human presence and geological history.
What outdoor activities can I do near these natural monuments?
The region offers a wide range of outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, from easy walks to challenging ascents, especially in the Mourne Mountains and the Ring of Gullion. Cycling is also popular, with routes like the Ring of Gullion loop. For specific routes and difficulties, you can explore guides such as Easy hikes around Drumalane, Running Trails around Drumalane, and Cycling around Drumalane.
Are there family-friendly natural monuments or activities in the Drumalane area?
Absolutely! The Ring of Gullion AONB, which includes The Witch Sculpture, offers tranquil woodland trails and an adventure playpark at Slieve Gullion Forest Park, making it ideal for families. The Murlough National Nature Reserve in the Mourne Mountains AONB, with its sand dunes and rich biodiversity, is also a great spot for family exploration and nature observation.
What is the best time of year to visit the natural monuments around Drumalane?
The best time to visit generally depends on your preferred activities. Spring and summer (April to September) offer milder weather, longer daylight hours, and vibrant landscapes, ideal for hiking and exploring. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, especially in forested areas like Ravensdale Forest. While winter can be colder and wetter, it offers a dramatic, rugged beauty, particularly in the Mourne Mountains, though some trails may be more challenging.
What makes the Ring of Gullion AONB unique?
The Ring of Gullion is a unique geological formation, an ancient ring dyke formed by a volcanic collapse millions of years ago. It's centered around Slieve Gullion, the highest peak in County Armagh, and is rich in both natural beauty and cultural heritage, interwoven with Irish legends and myths. It also features the highest surviving passage tomb in Britain or Ireland at the summit of Slieve Gullion.
Can I find challenging hiking trails near Drumalane's natural monuments?
Yes, for those seeking a challenge, the Mourne Mountains AONB offers numerous demanding trails, including ascents of peaks like Slieve Donard, Northern Ireland's highest mountain. The Slieve Gullion Summit itself is an intermediate to challenging climb, offering fantastic panoramic views from the extinct volcano.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see in the natural monument areas?
The diverse landscapes support a variety of wildlife. In the Mourne Mountains AONB, you might spot rare species like the Mourne Juniper, otters, and various bird populations, especially at Murlough National Nature Reserve. The Ring of Gullion is home to red deer, pine martens, red squirrels, and numerous bird species. Strangford Lough and Lecale AONB is internationally recognized for its marine life and coastal birds, including common seals and otters.
What is the significance of the Mourne Gullion Strangford UNESCO Global Geopark?
The Mourne Gullion Strangford UNESCO Global Geopark, which encompasses the natural monuments around Drumalane, celebrates over 400 million years of geological history. It showcases landscapes shaped by volcanic activity, the opening and closing of oceans, and the sculpting power of ice ages. The Geopark highlights the deep connection between people and the land, with evidence of human presence dating back 7,000 years, and supports sustainable tourism, education, and scientific research. You can learn more at unesco.org.
Are there any natural monuments that offer panoramic views?
Definitely. The Slieve Gullion Summit provides fantastic all-around views from the extinct volcano. From the North Cairn of Slieve Gullion, you can also enjoy sweeping vistas. Additionally, Scrabo Hill, capped by its iconic tower in the Strangford Lough and Lecale AONB, offers expansive views of the lough and surrounding area.
What are the unique geological features of the area around Drumalane?
The region boasts fascinating geological features. The Ring of Gullion is a prime example of an ancient ring dyke, formed by a volcanic collapse. The Mourne Mountains are characterized by stunning granite peaks shaped by ice and volcanic activity. Strangford Lough and Lecale AONB features drumlin hills, which are glacial formations, appearing as islands in the lough. These features tell a story of millions of years of geological processes.
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Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Drumalane:
