Ireland Guide
Down and Armagh
Counties Down and Armagh occupy the southeastern corner of Northern Ireland, between Belfast and the border and contain some of the region's most attractive countryside, especially around the coast. You're also never far away from places associated with St Patrick, who sailed into Strangford Lough to make his final Irish landfall in County Down, founded his first bishopric at Armagh and is buried at either Downpatrick or Armagh, depending on whose claim you prefer.
Heading south from Belfast, the glowering Mourne Mountains, increasingly dominate the panorama, and it's in this direction that most of the attractions lie. Inland there's less of interest, certainly in County Down. Armagh City though, is well worth some of your time for its ancient associations, cathedrals and fine Georgian streets. South Armagh has some startlingly attractive country, especially around the peak of Slieve Gullion.
Highlights
1 Portaferry A superb waterside location, tremendous sunsets and the best base for exploring Strangford Lough and the Ards Peninsula.
2 The Mourne Mountains Brooding and dominating South Down, the Mournes offer magnificent walking, intoxicating views and a total escape from the contemporary world.
3 Armagh city Probably the most graceful city in the North, with two cathedrals and a captivating Mall.