National Parks:
Glenveagh National Park
Just a short 10 minute drive east from the hostel is Glenveagh national park. This 16,000 hectares of mountain, bogs,lakes and woods is cut in two by the spectacular valley of Glenveagh which gives the park its name. Overlooking the lough stands Glenveagh Castle. Made from rough-hewn granite, the castle, a castellated mansion, was built between 1870 and 1873. The magic of Glenveagh derives from the fact that here is one of the last places in Ireland to be influenced by man. The aim of the National Park is to conserve this wilderness in such a way that people may visit and appreciate it and yet leave it unspoilt for generations to come.
Features include:
- 5 way-marked walks ranging from 3km to 22km long
- Children's play area
- Castle tour
- Visitor center with restaurant
- Open all year
Ards Forest Park
As well as being one of the most beautiful, Ards is certainly the most varied of Ireland's forest parks. Bays, rivers, loughs, beaches, salt marshes, valleys, viewing points, deer enclosures and historic monuments are woven together by a series of fascinating nature trails. Largely canopied by splendid deciduous and coniferous trees which clothe the 481 ha former estate of the Stewart family, the park is capable of providing days, rather than hours, of enjoyment . Its appeal embraces the stroller, ornithologist, geologist, botanist, historian, children, and lovers of beauty in all its forms. There is a good map at the car park which indicates the various trails and major attractions.