DESTINATIONS NEWRY, MOURNE AND DOWN | UK & IRELAND exper expert ASK THE
“It’s important to highlight just how unique the area is from a geological perspective. The high granite peaks of the Mourne Mountains, the striking volcanic formation of the Ring of Gullion and the rolling drumlins (hills) of Strangford Lough… it’s such a distinctive
landscape, and all just a short flight away. What’s so special, and something to emphasise to clients, is that this landscape and geology have shaped and inspired the tourism product; for example, in creating fantastic flour used in soda bread- making experiences and oats transformed into world-class whiskeys. Traditional music, myths and legends inspired by the surroundings are still sung and told today. The people here are celebrating and nurturing the landscape, and it’s a truly magical place for clients who love the great outdoors and a community spirit. The Unesco ratification this month is so exciting, as the area has been a hidden gem for years and is now getting the recognition it deserves.”
David Wood, trade, industry and business tourism manager, Tourism Ireland
and Joe patiently teaches me how to steer. As we glide serenely along the water, he talks about the high quality of life his family enjoys in this waterside location.
NATURE, FOOD AND DRINK This marrying of nature with food, drink and craft is a key theme of my trip, and if clients want a slightly faster adventure, recommend a tour with Bike Mourne. On a Mourne Trails and Ales tour, I am guided around Castlewellan Forest Park on an e-bike, with stops to taste local ales and learn about the park and the area’s history. The range of outdoor adventures is matched by good food in Newry, Mourne and Down, and a standout meal is a secret dining experience
BOOK IT
Osprey Holidays offers a three-night trip to Newcastle in Northern Ireland, with B&B at the four-star Slieve Donard hotel in a Superior Room from £869 per person. Price includes flights from Gatwick and 15kg hold luggage, based on travel on September 16.
ospreyholidays.com
SEEING LONDON
FROM NEW HEIGHTS The London Eye
NEW to Just Go! Holidays LONDON THEATRE
& ATTRACTION BREAKS
SIT BACK, RELAX & ENJOY THE SHOW
London’s West End
with celebrity chef Paul Cunningham. During it, Paul created an 11-course tasting menu paired with local cider, beer, whiskey and gin. He tells me these nights, which are held regularly, are “a celebration of local place and produce”, as he whisks people to interesting locations, which are revealed on the night, and cooks with ingredients sourced and foraged within the Mourne area. As with the other business owners I meet, Paul’s pride for the area and community is infectious.
My guide Peter emphasises this devotion to the area as we eat lunch in a local pub after our hike. “Why would you ever want to move from here?” he asks. As I look out at the gently lapping waves and undulating mountains from my hotel that evening, I can’t help but agree.
TW
wt al ti includd... Return coach travel Theatre/attraction ticket Hotel accommodation
Free time for shopping & sightseeing
Call: 0333 234 2010 Visit:
www.justgoholidays.com/agents
travelweekly.co.uk
Just Go, National & Omega Agents
18 MAY 2023
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