Write a commentThe Ring of Gullion Landscape Partnership has opened its new sensory trail at Slieve Gullion Forest Park. Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Charlie Casey officially cutting the ribbon at an event last week, assisted by children from Autism Families Newry.
The trail, designed by Brilliant Trails in close consultation with Autism Families Newry, was funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund and Newry, Mourne and Down District Council. Its purpose is to provide an immersive sensory experience in a quieter part of the Slieve Gullion Forest Park.
Chairperson, Councillor Charlie Casey said, “We are already proud of the fabulous facilities on offer at Slieve Gullion Forest Park and the sensory trail is a fantastic addition, which we are delighted to provide for children and adults with sensory needs.
“Spending time in forests, exploring and interacting with nature has many proven health benefits. I warmly invite everyone to explore the different activity points on the trail as I did. I particularly enjoyed writing my own poem, inspired by the nature all around at the Instant Poetry section and taking off my shoes and walking barefoot at the Bare your Soles point. Other enjoyable parts are the Blind Rope Challenge, the Treasure Tree Hunt and the Eye Spy a Troll sections. These have all been designed to help people get the most out of nature and let imaginations run wild.”
Full information on the trail, such as what to expect and recommendations on what to bring to fully utilise the trail, can be found at www.ringofgullion.org/things-to-do/ under the Sensory Trial tab.
