Killeavy Castle Estate Landscape Restoration Project continues on Slieve Gullion with planting of 27,000 broadleaf trees this winter

These plantings will take place this winter with the help of the Woodland Trust and is a major milestone for the Estate which plans to plant 50,000 trees on the slopes of Slieve Gullion over the next 10 years.

The Landscape Restoration Plan, is a 15-year project, costing over £1.5 million, spearheaded by the Australian based owners of Killeavy Castle Estate, Mick and Robin Boyle. The plan focuses on regenerating woodlands, hedgerows, heather and grasslands on the estate’s mountainous terrain, introducing native species to support local biodiversity, and building resilience to climate change.

The project is a collaboration with Northern Ireland Forestry Service and The Woodland Trust Northern Ireland, and it aims to transform Killeavy Castle Estate and its surroundings into a haven for nature while enhancing eco-tourism and recreational opportunities.

Mick Boyle, Owner of Killeavy Castle Estate, celebrated this historic step in the Estate’s sustainability journey saying: “Two years ago my parents Mick and Pauline Boyle, both from Killeavy, symbolically planted the first tree of our Landscape Restoration Project in a promise to protect and enhance the natural landscape of the Ring of Gullion for generations to come. In the last two years we have removed areas of plantation Sikta Spruce and prepared the ground so that we can now commence our first significant planting of native broadleaf woodland this winter.

“We are dedicated to improving the land around us, and as we continue this restoration journey, we are deeply committed to preserving our heritage, promoting biodiversity, and creating a sustainable environment that will benefit both our community and visitors alike.”

Since opening its doors in 2019, sustainability has been at the heart of Killeavy Castle Estate’s journey, becoming one of Ireland’s first carbon-positive hotels (based on scope 1 and 2 emissions only). Exceeding its ambitious goal by achieving carbon-positive status in 2023, a full year ahead of schedule. Just last month, the Estate was recognised for best Green/Sustainable Company of the Year at the Business Eye Awards and awarded for Sustainable Tourism Initiative of the Year at the All-Ireland Sustainability Awards.

Central to the Estate’s success are several key sustainable initiatives including the installation of solar panels completed earlier this year, which significantly reduces its reliance on external energy sources and further lowering its carbon footprint.

The Estate’s Landscape Restoration Plan will increase carbon capture and foster a biodiverse corridor connecting Killeavy Castle to Slieve Gullion Forest Park. Killeavy Castle Estate is also in discussions with Newry Mourne and Down District Council to create new public woodland trails that will link it with Slieve Gullion Forest Park. The project builds on the Boyles’ original restoration project, a £13 million investment that transformed the once-derelict Killeavy Castle and estate into a luxury hotel, spa, wedding and event venue, and wellness retreat, offering visitors immersive experiences with nature.

John McGrillen, CEO of Tourism NI, shared his admiration for Mick and Robin's exceptional dedication to Northern Ireland, especially to South Armagh, noting: “Killeavy Castle Estate's reforestation project perfectly aligns with our shared goal of positioning Northern Ireland as a leader in sustainable tourism — where our breathtaking landscapes are not only preserved but celebrated and enhanced for future generations.

“Mick and Robin’s focus on restoration and biodiversity exemplifies the essence of regenerative tourism, encouraging visitors to experience Northern Ireland’s natural beauty and rich heritage with respect and appreciation.

“Driven by consumer demand, sustainable tourism is growing significantly as globally, people become more aware of climate change, biodiversity loss, and cultural preservation.”

Robin Boyle, Co-Owner of Killeavy Castle Estate, added: “The planting of this tree today marks another milestone in our restoration journey which started over 10 years ago when we purchased Killeavy Castle Estate.

“This project isn’t just about trees; it’s about rejuvenating the entire ecosystem, and enriching the land for wildlife, plants, and people. We’re thrilled to take another step toward realizing a sustainable, restored landscape that our community and guests can enjoy and protect.”