THE stunning Montalto estate in Ballynahinch has welcomed its 100,000th visitor — just under a year after its opening last September.
The beautiful visitor experience, designed to reconnect people with nature through the estate’s magnificent surroundings, has achieved the major milestone as it prepares to celebrate its first birthday.
Owned by the Wilson family, the estate features public access to manicured gardens, historic walks and trails, an exciting tree house and natural play area for children.
There is also a welcome area featuring interpretation of the estate’s history, a stylish 120 seat café and a unique retail space.
As part of a continued investment strategy at the estate, future plans include the development of an events programme, further planting and the creation of more gardens.
There are also plans to provide additional trails including a 2.7km history trail highlighting areas of interest such as an early settlement site and the location of the famous Battle of Ballynahinch, which took place on the estate.
Future plans also include further additions to the natural play area that has become a firm favourite with families.
The estate’s managing director, David Wilson, described the arrival of the 100th visitor as an “incredible milestone” in Montalto’s first year of business.
He continued: “What an amazing year it has been.
“We have achieved our ambition of creating a high quality visitor attraction and have received excellent visitor feedback which, for us, is of the upmost importance. It has helped to reinforce decisions we have made as part of our continued commitment to delivering an excellent visitor product, service and experience.”
Mr Wilson said the estate’s membership has been a huge success and been very well received, with repeat visitors enjoying its many benefits.
“We would like to take this opportunity to thank our staff who have worked so hard to help us reach this milestone and everyone who has supported us in our first year,” he continued.
“As we plan for the future and the years ahead, we are very much looking forward to welcoming old and new visitors to Montalto.”
The estate of open from Wednesday to Sunday between 10am and 4pm with free access to the car park, welcome area, café and shop.
Gardens, trails and walks are ticketed with prices starting from £7.50 (adults) and children (age 5 – 16) £5.00. Discounted rates are available for advance bookings online, while children under 5 are admitted free.