Ulster

Spelga Reservoir


Spelga Reservoir is a reservoir in the townland of Spelga in the Mourne Mountains of County Down, Northern Ireland. It was formed by the Spelga Dam and sits at over 1,200 ft above sea level. It has a volume of 2,700,000 cubic metres and a catchment area of 5.423 kmĀ².

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Spelga Reservoir, located in the heart of the Mourne Mountains in Northern Ireland, is a picturesque destination that should be on every tourist's bucket list. This stunning reservoir is surrounded by verdant hills and is a paradise for nature lovers and hikers alike.

The reservoir is located in County Down and is part of the Silent Valley Reservoir Park. The park spans over 2,000 acres and is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including otters, badgers, and birds of prey. The park is also home to several walking trails, including the popular Spelga Dam Walk, which is a circular route that takes visitors on a tour of the reservoir and surrounding hills.

One of the main attractions of Spelga Reservoir is its scenic beauty. The reservoir is surrounded by lush forests and hills that are particularly stunning during the autumn months when the leaves turn vibrant shades of orange and red. Visitors can take in the views from the Spelga Dam, which was built in the 1950s to provide water to the nearby towns and cities. The dam itself is an impressive feat of engineering and is an attraction in its own right.

The area around Spelga Reservoir is also steeped in history and culture. The nearby town of Kilkeel is home to the Nautilus Centre, which explores the history of the local fishing industry, and the Mourne Maritime Visitor Centre, which showcases the area's maritime heritage. The region is also famous for its traditional music and dance, and visitors can experience this for themselves at one of the many local pubs or at the annual Mourne International Walking Festival.

For those who want to explore the great outdoors, Spelga Reservoir offers plenty of opportunities for adventure. The reservoir is a popular spot for fishing, with brown and rainbow trout being the most commonly caught fish. There are also several hiking trails in the area, including the Mourne Way, a long-distance trail that takes hikers on a 40-mile journey through the Mourne Mountains.

Overall, Spelga Reservoir is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Northern Ireland. Whether you're a nature lover, a history buff, or an outdoor enthusiast, there's something for everyone to enjoy at this stunning location. So, pack your bags and head to Spelga Reservoir for an unforgettable Northern Irish adventure.

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