Northern Ireland - Northern Ireland is made up of the six northern counties of the island of Ireland, following political partition in the 1920s. The landscape is generally low rolling hill country with lakes, some forested areas and the Sperrin and Mourne mountain ranges. County Down is famous for its rounded 'Drumlin' hills and Strangford Lough, a picturesque sea Lough with numerous tiny islets. The Glens of Antrim and the Antrim coastline (north east) are areas of outstanding natural beauty, with high sea cliffs, dramatic views, secluded valleys. The Mourne mountains (south) offer wilderness grandeur. Lough Neagh is one of Europe's largest lakes and the centre of a thriving eel fishery since the Middle Ages. The Lough is linked to the River Shannon in the Republic of Ireland by a recently restored canal now used by pleasure craft. The Province's indented coastline has many bays providing good anchorages for yachts.

Northern Ireland is not densely populated and the unspoilt countryside provides an ideal venue for outdoor pursuits. There are many Forest or Country Parks - compact 'National Parks' - maintained by the NI Department of the Environment. Coarse fishing is amongst the world's best and there are some of the world's best salmon and trout rivers. There are a large number of golf courses, several of international championship standard. Sailing, golf, climbing, hill walking, fishing, horse riding and motor sports are popular.

Northern Ireland Map