Tourism
The area has been a popular tourist destination since Victorian times when the railway between Dublin and Belfast was opened. Situated approximately half way between the two cities, the easy access to the area combined with its scenery and sheltered location are still important factors in its popularity today.
This is where the "Mountains of Mourne sweep down to the Sea"' and together with the Sleve Foy ridge on the County Louth shore of the lough they offer scenic drives, forest parks and many miles of good footpaths and trails to explore. Rambling, hillwalking and climbing are popular, with local outdoor education centers offering courses and activity holidays. It's a similar story on the water, with marinas in Carlingford and Warrenpoint. Craft of various types can be hired at both locations, or the visitor can take a cruise on one of several tour vessels that operate during the peak season.
Culturally, there is a varied offering of events and festivals. Highlights include the Carlingford Oyster Festival, Newry Arts Festival, The "Maiden of the Mournes" in Warrenpoint, Rostrevor's "Fiddlers Green International Folk Festival"' and the Mourne Walking Festival which involves a wide programme of events at a variety of locations. The majority of these festivals are free, although bookings and or entry fees may be payable for some events. More informal entertainment is widely available throughout the year in hotels and bars.
Accommodation includes award winning hotels, B&Bs, self-catering holiday cottages, and campsites. Early booking is always advisable during holiday periods as even the campsites are often full to capacity. Opportunities to eat out are largely confined to the Hotels, small restaurants and local bars (although many smaller bars do not serve meals), but there is generally a good balance between quality and value for money.
In 2008, the area was designated a European Destination of Excellence (EDEN), and continuing investment in infrastructure, services and facilities on both sides of the border is assured.
Read more about this topic: Carlingford Lough
Famous quotes containing the word tourism:
“In the middle ages people were tourists because of their religion, whereas now they are tourists because tourism is their religion.”
—Robert Runcie (b. 1921)