With a winning combination of challenging peaks and gentle foothill strolls, the Mournes is a paradise for walkers of all levels. It’s a tempting area for foodies too with some fantastic restaurants along the way. Here's a few of our recommendations on where to stop whilst you're in the area...
Recommended Walks in the Mournes
Slieve Donard, Newcastle
Enthusiastic walkers will find buckets to explore along this 2.9 mile route to the summit of Slieve Donard. Northern Ireland’s highest peak, it stands at 853m - with the remaining peaks which form this famous ring of mountains all rising above 600m. As you’d expect, the views - sweeping down to the sea and across to the Isle of Man, Wales and Scotland – are utterly breath-taking. All the more for you to enjoy on the return 2.9 mile stretch then.
Donard, Bearnagh and Meelmore
A strenuous and challenging walk with some steep ascents, but well worth it. The walk takes in three of the four highest peaks in the Mourne Mountains (Slieve Donard 853m, Slieve Commedagh 765m, Slieve Bearnagh 739m) and also the Brandy Pad – the well-trodden and infamous smugglers track. On a clear day enjoy wonderful views to the Irish Sea and to the heart of the High Mournes.
Slieve Binnian, Carrick Little
At 747m, reaching Slieve Binnian’s summit is no mean feat, but just think of the views when you get there. This fantastic 7-mile circular walking route begins at Carrick Little Car Park and follows the Mourne Wall to the top of Slieve Binnian, Northern Ireland’s 3rd highest peak. It then crosses the spectacular South and North Tors, before descending past the Blue Lough and Annalong Forest.
Where to stop for a bite to eat
The Percy French
Now that you’ve seen the sweeping mountains of Mourne, it’s time to learn a little about the man who made them famous in song. The Percy French, in the grounds of the Slieve Donard Resort and Spa, is named after the composer of the classic “The Mountains of Mourne” and a wonderfully tasty spot to stop for a meal and a cosy log fire.
Mourne Seafood Bar
You can’t leave without a visit to the Mourne Seafood Bar. Over half of Northern Ireland’s fishing fleet is based in nearby Kilkeel harbour, so it’s no wonder some of the finest local seafood turns up as the culinary star of dishes here.
Nearby Attractions, Parks and Coastal Paths
Tollymore Forest Park
Find your way across rope bridges, tunnels, spider webs and basket swings – don’t forget the castle turret and folly tower - to the giant Deer! (Hint: He’s actually a super-sized ‘Big Deer’ slide.) Tollymore Forest Park is a fantastic adventure playground for children. Plus there are four wonderful circular walking trails, with bridges, grottos and photo-friendly stepping stones for the adults. Well, why should kids have all the fun?
Castlewellan Forest Park
It’s this way to Animal Wood. Situated beside one of the world’s largest hedge mazes, it’s a play-fest of wild woodland animals, including a badger, a red squirrel and a giant spider. There’s also a fully signposted 7.5 mile trail network with jaw-dropping views to the Mourne Mountains. And a spectacular – and beautifully flat – mile-long lakeside walk where kids can cycle alongside the grown-ups.
Castlewellan is also home to a Scottish Baronial Castle and some of the most outstanding tree and shrub collections in Europe. So it’s a good spot for a family stroll too. Don’t miss Castlewellan’s best kept secret, the hauntingly beautiful Annesley Gardens and arboretum. It’s full of secluded areas to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet – with a wondrous walking trail that leads past the duck pond, around hidden lakes and fountains.
Dundrum
Just 4 miles from the seaside town of Newcastle, Dundrum is a small village with superb offerings for both walkers, nature lovers and foodies. The Dundrum Coastal Path runs along a 1.6 mile stretch of disused railway with exceptional views over Dundrum Bay and the Mourne Mountains. The ruins of the medieval Dundrum Castle can be visited on the nearby hill. And The Dundrum Inn, recently UK Pub of the Year, is the romantic version of an Irish pub you dream of, with fierce craic from the locals and a warm welcome from the hosts
Cloughmore Stone, Rostrevor
This is Narnia country where Belfast-born C.S Lewis was inspired to create his famous Chronicles. A short uphill walk – just 0.4 miles each way – brings you to a breath-taking vantage point overlooking Carlingford Lough. And who knows what that might inspire?
Murlough National Nature Reserve
At the edge of Dundrum Bay and the Mourne Mountains, the Murlough National Nature Reserve is a fragile 6,000 year-old sand dune system, owned by the National Trust. 2.5 miles of paths and boardwalks take you through dunes, woodland and heath. Look out for butterflies, wild flowers, wintering wildfowl and common and grey seals. The best sort of travelling companions.
Whether you’re taking your tentative first steps along a mountain trail or fast-tracking your way to the summit, the Mourne Mountains and its surrounding area are bursting with options for your next walk or hike. It’s time to pack those boots and start your adventure.
Challenging walk in the Mournes, including the two highest peaks
At the foot of the Mourne Mountains, local favourite The Percy French serves pub classics, regional fare, bar snacks and a traditional Sunday roast — all with a focus on in-season and local produce. A wide-ranging wine list sits alongside draught beers and a menu of classically inspired cocktails.
Castlewellan Forest Park boasts a stunning Victorian Castle, incredible panoramic views, scenic walking trails, 27 km of mountain bike trails, nature play perfect for the kids, an on-site multi-activity centre, hedge maze and equestrian centre, making it a must-visit for all ages.
Covering an area of almost 630 hectares at the foot of the Mourne mountains, Tollymore Forest Park has panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the sea at Newcastle. It's open to the public all year.
Our aim is to provide locally sourced seafood at an affordable price. All our produce is sourced from local ports and delivered daily to ensure freshness and quality.
"Where the Mountains of Mourne sweep down to the sea" (Percy French) The popular song has made the Mournes the best known mountains in Ireland. Distinctive and self contained, they are tucked away in the south east corner of Northern Ireland. Dominated by Slieve Donard, Northern Ireland's highest peak, this area of outstanding natural beauty is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
Walks though a woodland with steep climbs and hills in places
Murlough National Nature Reserve is a fragile 6000 year old sand dune system owned by the National Trust and managed as Ireland’s first Nature Reserve since 1967. It is an excellent area for walking and bird watching.
Slieve Donard at 850m (2,789 ft) is the highest of the Mourne Mtns. The views from the summit are extensive and on a clear day the Isle of Man, Wicklow, Donegal, Wales and Scotland may be seen, as well as the long stretch of Newcastle Beach.
The Dundrum Inn is situated in the beautiful village of Dundrum on the shores of Dundrum Bay. UK Pub of the Year 2022, best in County Down
Believed to have been built in or around 1177, Dundrum Castle was built by John De Courcy as part of his coastal defence after he invaded Ulster. Dundrum Castle is located on a wooded hill north-west of Dundrum village near Newcastle.
