View of Castlewellan Castle
View of Castlewellan Castle
Highlight • Castle
View of Castlewellan Castle
Hiking
4.8
(20)
Cycling
5.0
(12)
This Highlight is in a protected area
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Tips
February 20, 2021
Hiking
May 13, 2021
Cycling
Built in the mid 1800s, the castle was owned by the Annesley family. Its grounds contain a phenomenal arboretum which has been considerably extended and includes giant sequoias.
The building is now a Christian conference centre and isn't open to the public. It's well worth seeing from the outside though, and the lawns around the lake are a perfect place for a picnic.
August 25, 2020
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near View of Castlewellan Castle
3
riders
55.3km
03:43
710m
710m
Embark on the Slievenaman loop from Newcastle, a challenging touring bicycle route that spans 34.4 miles (55.3 km) and features a significant elevation gain of 2319 feet (707 metres). This difficult ride, estimated to take 3 hours and 42 minutes, offers continuous vistas of the majestic Mourne Mountains, including Slieve Donard, as you cycle through an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. You will experience spectacular coastal and mountain views, with the highlight being the dramatic sight of the mountains sweeping down to the sea at Bloody Bridge.
This demanding route requires good fitness due to its sustained climbs and steep sections; novice cyclists may find parts of the journey very strenuous and might need to dismount. Parking is generally available in Newcastle, which serves as a convenient starting point for your exploration of the Mournes. Plan to begin your ride with ample time to complete the full loop before dusk, especially given the route's difficulty and length.
The Slievenaman loop is situated within the Mourne Gullion Strangford UNESCO Global Geopark, highlighting its unique geological and cultural significance. As you cycle, you will pass through picturesque areas like Tollymore Forest Park, offering a diverse landscape beyond the rugged mountain terrain. This route provides an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and challenging cycling conditions that define this renowned region.
2
riders
32.5km
02:03
310m
310m
Embark on the Newcastle to Clough Castle loop, a touring bicycle route spanning 20.2 miles (32.5 km) with an elevation gain of 1014 feet (309 metres). This moderate ride typically takes around 2 hours and 2 minutes to complete, offering a challenging experience through hilly to mountainous terrain. As you cycle, you'll be treated to spectacular views of the majestic Mourne Mountains, the coastline of Dundrum Bay, and the Irish Sea. The route often passes through charming villages and alongside natural attractions like Tollymore Forest Park, Northern Ireland's first designated forest park, and Lough Island Reavy Reservoir, providing a diverse and engaging landscape.
While there isn't one single formally designated trail for this specific loop, the region allows you to combine sections of existing routes to create this touring experience. Be prepared for significant climbs and descents, as parts of the journey, especially the return sections towards Newcastle, can be quite steep. It's wise to check your brakes before setting out, and if you are a novice cyclist, you might find yourself needing to dismount on some strenuous sections, such as those leading to Ballygreehan Road. The area's cycling routes are known for their challenging nature, so plan your visit with this in mind.
The Mourne Mountains East region, where this route is located, is recognized as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and a UNESCO Global Geopark. This designation highlights its unique natural environment, featuring granite mountains, scenic coastal roads, and natural woodlands. The area is notable for its panoramic vistas and diverse landscapes, offering a mix of serene forest cycling, challenging mountain ascents, and picturesque coastal stretches. You can also encounter historic sites like Dundrum Castle, which is situated near Clough, adding a cultural dimension to your ride.
107km
06:54
1,290m
1,290m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 120 m
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Thursday 11 June
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11°C
12 %
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Max wind speed: 26.0 km/h
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