News
New Year, New You
At the turning point of the new year, the days are beginning to stretch a little longer, and the air begins to feel lighter. It’s a lovely time to wander, reflect, and appreciate the quieter beauty of the landscape as it moves toward its next chapter. At Montalto Estate, this is one of our favourite times – a chance to pause, reset and reconnect with nature.
A Perfect Time to #ExploreMontalto
As the seasons change, our woodland trails and pathways offer a peaceful escape from the rush of everyday life. Whether you’re seeking a quiet solo walk, a catch-up with friends, or a family day out, the trails invite you to slow down and take in the surroundings.
Early signs of new growth, shifting colours, and fresh air make this an especially rewarding time to explore. Each route offers something a little different, from gentle strolls to longer walks that truly let you immerse yourself in the estate. Lets take a closer look:
The Woodland Trail
Distance: 2.2km | Accessibility: Fully down to the Natural Play Area | Estimated Time: 60 mins
Noted for its many interesting and historic trees, with many native and naturalised birch, beech, douglas-fir, and sycamore trees visible on the route.
You can also find two of our top attractions on this trail; The Kids Outdoor Adventure Playpark, as well as our dog-friendly agility and off-lead area, The Bark Park!
In conjunction with The Woodland Trust, we have recently planted thousands of native whips (young trees), which will ensure that this area will continue to develop for many years to come.
The Garden Walk
Distance: 0.9km | Accessibility: Partial | Estimated Time: 20-25mins
This trail is at its most stunning in spring-time, when a beautiful display of deciduous azaleas and colourful rhododendron, are in full bloom. See a large collection of rhododendron hybrids, sourced from John Gault, a Northern Irish expert.
As you make your way past the Summer House you will see lots of other wonderful shrubbery and planting. Traverse past the Rock Garden, into the Pinetum as you take in the ginormous Champion Trees:
Our Redwood makes the champions list because it has the largest girth of its type recorded in Northern Ireland. As you pass the lake, you will see another of our champion trees, this one a beautiful large Sycamore; this is a champion tree because it has been rated as a magnificent spreading lawn specimen.
The Lost Garden Trail
Distance: 1.9km | Accessibility: Partial | Estimated Time: 40-45mins
Follow the footsteps of those who lived on the Estate in the past. Discover the historic glasshouse remains. Adjacent to them you will see the replica of the original rose arbour, which leads down to a bridge crossing the stream, just as there would’ve been decades ago.
As part of this initiative, we are working with the Alpine Garden Society (Ulster Group), to use this new glasshouse to house alpine plants. As the first Ulster Group was originally set up by Lady Clanwilliam while she owned Montalto, this will help to ensure that the estate continues its linkages with its storied past.
Visitors on this trail will be able to view The Cutting Gardens; this area is used by the estate to supply flowers for events and workshops.
The Lake Walk
Distance: 1.1km | Accessibility: Fully | Estimated Time: 20mins
You will see beautiful deciduous azaleas, which are in full colourful bloom during springtime. You will also pass a number of specimen trees, shrubs, and magnolias. Another interesting feature you will catch a glimpse of as you continue along this walk is the azalea bowl, which includes a wonderful, natural bowl formation.
Loop around The Witch’s Cottage, where you will see a wide variety of shrubs and trees. In particular, notice the wonderful array of beautiful daffodils and azaleas, which are magnificent here in spring.
Bask in the natural wonder of our picturesque woodland lake, teeming with wildlife and vegetation. The Boathouse provides the perfect wedding and engagement opportunities, with the Grand Montalto House set in the backdrop.
See more information regarding our Trails HERE
Refuel in the Café
After time spent outdoors, our café offers the perfect place to warm up, relax, and recharge. Whether it’s a comforting coffee, a homemade treat, or a relaxed lunch, the café continues to be a welcoming space to sit back and enjoy the moment.
To make visits to Montalto Estate even more rewarding, we’re currently running special and seasonal Café and Trails deals, providing guests the chance to enjoy both the grounds and a delicious bite to eat at great value. It’s our way of encouraging you to make a full day of your visit. See our options:
Rise & Ramble
Weekday Mornings, from 9:30am – 11:30am
Start your day the Montalto way with a delicious breakfast in the Café, followed by a refreshing early morning walk through the crisp, wintery trails & gardens.
Available to all of our visitors midweek, this is the perfect opportunity to soak up the peaceful winter atmosphere while treating yourself to a warming morning meal, tea and coffee included.
Terms & Conditions apply, see more information on our website.
Seniors’ Discount Tuesday
Tuesdays at Montalto, from 9:30am – 3pm
For all of our visitors aged 65 and over! Join us for a special Tuesday deal that combines a delightful visit to our Trails & Gardens with a tasty treat from The Café.
Options include:
- Eggs your way, served with toast and tomato
- Seasonal homemade porridge
- Toasted ham and cheese croissant
- Luxury scone
- Soup of the Day, paired with Wheaten Bread
…paired with a refreshing tea or coffee.
The perfect way to complete your experience. Relax, unwind, and enjoy a well-deserved break!
Traybake & Hot Drink Offer
Weekday Afternoons, from 3pm – 4pm
Enjoy a special offer from our Café this Winter, and enjoy an excuse to indulge in the warmth of our eatery. Pair a tea or coffee with a traybake, freshly baked in-house from The Café at Montalto, all for just £5. And the best part is – No membership ID required!
Item exclusions may apply.
See more information regarding current offers and events on our website HERE
Whether you’re a regular visitor or discovering Montalto Estate for the first time, we invite you to step outside, breathe deeply, and enjoy this moment of change with us.
We look forward to welcoming you to the estate very soon!