Self-catering accommodation in County Down, northern Ireland

County Down has a variety of landscapes and environments to suit most tastes. In the south of the county, rugged granite mountains prevail. A favourite place for hill walking and rock climbing, this peaceful landscape is home to many bird species. Notable sights include the Diamond Rocks which glitter with sparkling crystals and the haunting Silent Valley.

Another environment rich with wildlife is Strangford Lough. There is a well established common seal colony here at the lake as well as populations of wildfowl. Human history also features highly in County Down. It is in this green land that the patron saint of Ireland, St Patrick, is buried. Every 17th of March there is a pilgrimage to his grave.

• holiday cottages in County Down, northern Ireland

History is brought to life at the Down County Museum. Set within the 18th century Down County Gaol, in this atmospheric museum you can learn about the history of County Down and in the cell block, you can experience the conditions 18th century prisoners endured.  

County Down borders Belfast, the capital of Ulster. Belfast is now a flourishing cultural city with plenty of attractions and ideal for short city breaks. Come to wonder at the elegant buildings of this world famous city, to enjoy the cultural delights of the Opera House and the art galleries or to have a great night out in the city's lively restaurants, bars and nightclubs.    

Ten miles south of Belfast is Hillsborough. This Georgian village is very pretty and a great place to browse through the many antique and craft shops or to enjoy lunch in one the village's traditional pubs and restaurants. Nearby are Hillsborough Castle, a private home which has recently played host to George Bush and Hillsborough Fort a 17th century fortification.  

Self-catering holiday cottages and apartments to rent in County Down: