The on-screen and PDF map for Bangor to Orlock has been extensively updated including adding NASA derived contours to show the shape to the coastal headlands. There are also some new photographs.
See the full Orlock to Bangor Post here
The two walk descriptions for the Donard Foothills area and the associated trail and overview maps have just been updated and improved. The changes take into account the impact of the hillside and forest fires of Easter 2019 and changes in vegetation cover on the open mountain. In addition, basic contours (derived from NASA data) have been added to all maps to give a better overview of the terrain. However, we still recommend using a proper commercial mountain map – see the post Get a Mountain Map (and look at it)!
Maps and photos note: click or tap to see any maps or photographs below as a high resolution version.
Delamont Country Park is one of the few areas open to the public which give access to the shore of Strangford Lough. There is a short section of shore trail and a prominent hilltop with great views over Strangford, the low hills near Downpatrick and, on a clear day, the Mournes beyond. Gibbs Island is a wonderful tranquil reserve with lough side walking, old woodland with a herony, a rookery and intriguing hints of previous human occupation. Combining the two into a single walk gets around the very limited access and parking at Gibbs Island and adds the necessary distance to get your head and senses tuned in to this precious piece of Strangford shoreland.
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Belfast is a city surrounded by uplands – the silhouettes of Cave Hill, Divis, The Black Mountain and the Castlereagh and Holywood Hills form its backdrop. Yet these hills for most remain unvisited and unknown. This is partly owing to the usual Northern Ireland problem of general lack of public access, but now, in the case of Divis and the Black Mountain this is no longer a factor. If you haven’t made it there yet this walk should serve as an introduction to this expansive and rewarding area.
The area is owned and maintained by the National Trust who have provided two car parks, a café and a very well designed and maintained series of trails. There is no admission charge so if you can get yourself to the car parks this is a very accessible mountain experience just five miles from the heart of Belfast City.
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