There’s something magical about a winter sunrise, when the world feels hushed and still beneath a blanket of frost. The crisp, cold air bites at your skin, but the soft, golden light creeping over the horizon provides a gentle warmth. As the first rays of the sun touch the snow, it sparkles like a field of diamonds, casting long shadows and bringing the landscape to life. The sky, a blend of soft pinks, purples, and oranges, reflects the quiet beauty of the season. With each passing moment, the cold fades just a little, and you can’t help but feel a sense of peace, as if nature is greeting you with a promise of new beginnings.

Ideally you would have picture perfect covering of snow to enhance the experience but as that doesn’t always happen, we’ve selected some pretty spots, irrespective of snow:

Gosford Forest Park offers vast space and a chance to pick a spot which is yours and yours alone to immerse yourself in the first rays of sun. Watch out for animals and nature all around you and be present in the moment, ready for the day ahead.

Standing at the top of the majestic Navan Centre and Fort, with the vast landscape stretched out in front of you. Combined with peace and tranquillity you truly can enjoy the winter sunrise. On Friday 20th December there are limited tickets available for a celebration of the winter solstice. Be a part and set your intentions for the year ahead. See Winter Solstice Mindfulness Morning to book.

Oxford Island, a designated National Nature Reserve situated on the peninsula in the southern shores of Lough Neagh. Experience your winter sunrise by exploring a network of all access walking trails and bird watching hides, accompanied by the gentle lap of waves.

In the middle of Lurgan town, adjacent to Brownlow Castle you will find Lurgan Park. As second largest park in Ireland after Phoenix Park, it is a great stop off to stretch the legs and watch as the world wakes up. The park was once part of the Brownlow estate and in the Castle you can enjoy a great menu, all served piping hot and just the thing to thaw out after a cold frosty morning.

For inspiring views with the morning sunrise, accompanied by the powerful sound of rushing water, Seagahan Dam boosts a beautiful 2.25-mile looped walk around the reservoir.

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