Walk the Lecale Way

The Lecale way is a long distance walk from Downpatrick into Newcastle. I am delighted to announce that I have two signature tours now available for group bookings. The first explores one of the best kept secrets of the area. The second explores the biggest story Ireland ever told.

The stunning clifftop walk

There is no better way to get to know an area than with a walking guide. In Lecale we are lucky to have some of the most scenic and secluded pathways to get you off the beaten track. This is a great way to get away from it all and to unwind. Even better is when you have a lunch thrown into the bargain!

The first option is along one of the most spectacular sections of the Lecale Way. It is the Sheepland Cliffs near Ardglass.

The winding path meanders along the rocky cliffs for some three miles. The fascinating linear folded rock formations rise to staggering heights of fifteen metres. To the north is Ballyhornan and Guns Island, to the south Ardglass but the views include the Isle of Man, The Mull of Kintyre, and the Mournes.

The landscape is shrouded in rich folklore which people observed well into the 1970s. Along the route we come to a well founded by Saint Patrick, listen to local tales of smuggling, and explore the rich heritage of the people. Best of all there is lunch included at the winning Curran's Bar and Seafood Steakhouse!

The second option is a dander through the hills and lanes of Lecale. It begins at Saul, the place where Patrick set out to change the face of Ireland forever.

Beginning at the church site we explore 1600 years of heritage and folklore. How did someone come to change the brutal pagan's of Ireland? Why did he succeed while others failed?

As we set off into the hills along some quiet country lanes the answer will become apparent. First we arrive at the tranquil waters of Loughmoney. Under the shade of Slieve-na-Griddle this is the source of the River Slaney. Exploring the ancient Neolithic monuments of the druids we explore the differences and similarities of this with Patrick's version of Christianity. Walking back along bridle paths we round it off with a lunch at The Barn Pub and Country Kitchen.

Views along the walk in Saul

Both experiences are available for groups of up to four people. The cost for this package is £100 which includes the lunch. You can organise one of these events on the website at: www.lecalepeninsula.com/experiences

Larger groups can organise tailored packages.