Ards Forest Park

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Access: OSI Map 2, grid ref: C046 336 - Public transport is limited in this area, but a local bus service does link villages in the locality. A large car park is available, however comes at a small cost (At time of writing the cost was €5 - Bring change for the machine). Funds raised from parking charges go towards maintenance of the park so it is an important source of income. Access to the car park does close at different times depending on the time of year so be sure to factor this in when planning your walks.

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Hike Distance: Nature trail - 1.5km; Red trail - 13km; Green trail - 3.5km, Yellow trail - 4km; Marine trail - 2.5km; Sand Dune trail - 1km; Heritage trail - 5km; Binngorm trail - 3.5km; Salt Marsh trail - 0.5km

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Difficulty: Nature trail -Easy; Red Trail - Strenuous; Green Trail - Easy; Yellow trail - Easy; Marine trail - Easy; Sand Dune trail - Easy; Heritage trail - Moderate; Binngorm trail - Strenuous; Salt Marsh trail - Easy 

 

Time to complete: Nature trail - 1hr; Red Trail - 4hrs; Green Trail - 1.5hrs; Yellow trail - 1.5hrs; Marine trail - 1hr; Sand Dune trail - 1.5hrs; Heritage trail - 2hrs; Binngorm trail - 2hrs; Salt Marsh trail - 1hr

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Notable features and additional info: This is a great place to take the family for a day out and explore some of the trails on offer. It is also a good option when the weather is not suitable for some of the more exposed walks in Donegal, as the trees offer some protection from the elements.

There is open spaces for picnics and a play area for children. Some of the trails take you to isolated spots in the forest that you can enjoy and take in your surroundings. A coastal trail is also available that allows spectacular views of Sheephaven Bay.