On our way to the Ards Peninsula, we stopped to see the Northern Ireland Assembly, the country’s parliament building. The entrance from the front gate to the assembly is one mile long, and it’s not until you arrive that you realize just how big this building is—365 feet long! The six pillars in the front represent the six counties of Northern Ireland.
(For all photos, click on the image for a full screen view.)
We continued to the Ards Peninsula, which protrudes out from Northern Ireland’s northeast coast and into the Irish Sea. This peninsula is Northern Ireland’s most important region for nature and has many species of birds; however, the government isn’t protecting the waterways. Climate change has also affected the region, making it warmer than it has ever been. Between the lack of protection of the waterways and climate change, it remains to be seen what will happen to this beautiful part of the country.
Mount Stewart House and Garden was our next stop. Following a tour of the massive gardens and some time to explore on our own, we toured the house.
Considered to be one of the most outstanding gardens in the world, Mount Stewart is the most visited National Trust mansion house property in Northern Ireland. The gardens are tended to by 1,000 gardeners, 996 who are volunteers.
The Stewart family had a successful coal mining business in London, and this was their vacation home. The 19th-century mansion features a vast collection of art and furniture that reflects the history of the family.
Our final stop was at Donaghadee County Down for a walk to see the Donaghadee Lighthouse, which was constructed in 1836. We couldn’t have had a more beautiful day! The weather was so nice that some locals were making a splash doing some jumps into the 58-degree water!
Coming up next: IRISH ADVENTURE #9: HIKING THE GORGEOUS GIANT’S CAUSEWAY
Elaine-iaK's Travels: A Traveler's Tales of People, Places, Photos, Pools... and CHOCOLATE! 