From the Mountains of Mourne in the south to the Gold Coast in the north of the county, Down has a little bit of everything. Its many beautiful low hills rise up to the granite hardness of the Mountains as one goes south.
The coastal line of the north of Down provides everything the watersports enthusiast could want. A multitude of small fishing villages and larger towns provide the opportunity to get away from it all next to the majesty of the coats and the quiet glacial clam of Strangford Loch. Fishing, boating, cruising, scuba diving and much, much more is available for those visitors with a liking for the outdoors pursuits.
There's plenty for the history buff too. A visit to the Somme Heritage Centre in Newtownards is an illuminating insight into the role of Irishmen and women during the first World War including the famous 36th Ulster Division which in the worst fighting in the Somme. For those with an interest in things a little more venerable Dundrum Castle is worth a look. With a fine view of the Mourne Mountains and even to Dublin on a clear day from the round tower it's a sight worth seeing.
To the south of the county along the border lies the town of Newry and the Mourne Mountains. The cathedral town of Newry is situated at the head of the 'Gap of the North'. Through this pass many centuries ago raiders from the North would attack the farms and villages of Leinster. Today though, Newry is known more for its shopping and nightlife than its raiders. Because of its strategic position it is popular with shoppers on both sides of the border and bargain hunters will find plenty of choice.
The Newry and Mourne area has much to offer the visitor, whether your tastes are for historic sites rich in tradition and folklore, breathtaking mountain walks and scenery, or outdoor sports on land or water.
With Belfast City dominating the county people are often lured to the bright lights of the big city instead of taking the time to explore and really get to know this county. Doing so is to miss out on much of what Down has to offer and that's not something anyone should have to do.