Why the Mournes Should Be on Your Itinerary
The Mourne Mountains are the highest peaks in Northern Ireland and one of the most beautiful upland areas in all of Ireland. Rising steeply from the coast of County Down, the granite summits, heather-covered slopes and dry stone walls create a landscape that inspired C.S. Lewis when he imagined the world of Narnia. The area was designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is a magnet for hillwalkers, trail runners and anyone who appreciates wild open scenery. With a hire car, you can reach the Mournes from Belfast in under an hour and explore at your own pace.
Getting There from Belfast
The Mourne Mountains are roughly 35 miles south of Belfast. The fastest route is the A24 through Ballynahinch, then the A25 and A50 into Newcastle, which takes about 50 minutes. A more scenic alternative follows the coast via the A2 through Bangor and Downpatrick, adding about 30 minutes but rewarding you with sea views and the chance to stop at fishing villages along the way. Newcastle is the main gateway town and has plenty of parking, cafes and outdoor shops to gear up before hitting the trails.
Slieve Donard: Northern Ireland's Highest Peak
At 850 metres, Slieve Donard is the highest mountain in Northern Ireland and the most popular hike in the Mournes. The classic route starts from Donard Park car park in Newcastle and follows the Glen River uphill through woodland before emerging onto open mountainside. The path is well-worn and easy to follow, though it is steep in places and the final section crosses rocky ground to the summit cairn. On a clear day the views from the top stretch to the Isle of Man, the Wicklow Mountains and even the Scottish coast.
Route Details
- Distance: 9 km (5.6 miles) round trip
- Elevation gain: 850 metres
- Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
- Time: 4 to 5 hours
- Parking: Donard Park car park, Newcastle (pay and display)
Hare's Gap and the Brandy Pad
For a dramatic mountain pass experience, hike to Hare's Gap from the Trassey Track car park near Bryansford. The trail climbs gradually along a stream before steepening into the gap between Slieve Bearnagh and Slievenaglogh. The gap itself is a rocky col with stunning views in both directions. Fit hikers can extend the walk along the Brandy Pad, an old smugglers' path that traverses the mountainside with views down to the Silent Valley reservoir. This is a quieter route that avoids the crowds on Slieve Donard.
Route Details
- Distance: 8 km (5 miles) to Hare's Gap and back
- Elevation gain: 500 metres
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Time: 3 to 4 hours
- Parking: Trassey Track car park (free, limited spaces)
Silent Valley Reservoir
If you prefer a gentler day out, Silent Valley is a beautiful spot nestled in the heart of the mountains. The reservoir supplies water to Belfast and the surrounding area, and the grounds include well-maintained walking paths, manicured gardens and a visitor centre. A shuttle bus runs to the Ben Crom reservoir further up the valley, where the scenery becomes wilder and more remote. The car park charges a small entry fee per vehicle. Silent Valley is accessible via the B27 from Kilkeel on the south side of the mountains.
Tollymore Forest Park
Sitting at the foot of the Mournes on the edge of Newcastle, Tollymore Forest Park is perfect for families or anyone who wants a woodland walk with mountain views. The park features four waymarked trails through ancient oaks and conifers, crossing ornamental stone bridges over the Shimna River. Game of Thrones fans will recognise it as the Haunted Forest from the pilot episode. Entry is charged per vehicle, and there are picnic areas and a campsite within the park grounds.
Newcastle Town
Newcastle sits where the mountains meet the sea and serves as the main base for exploring the Mournes. The town has a long sandy beach, a promenade, and a growing selection of restaurants and cafes catering to the outdoor crowd. It is also home to the Royal County Down golf club, regularly ranked among the top courses in the world. After a day on the trails, Newcastle is the ideal place to refuel with a hearty meal before driving back to Belfast.
Practical Driving and Hiking Tips
- When to go: May to October offers the best weather and longest days. Winter hiking is possible but requires proper gear and navigation skills.
- What to bring: Waterproofs, sturdy hiking boots, extra layers, food and water. Weather changes rapidly in the mountains even in summer.
- Parking: Donard Park and Trassey Track are the main trailhead car parks. Arrive before 10am on weekends to guarantee a space.
- Road conditions: Main roads are good. Some minor roads to trailheads are narrow single-track with passing places.
- Mobile signal: Coverage is patchy in the valleys. Download offline maps before setting out.
- Car hire tip: A standard hatchback handles all Mourne roads comfortably. No 4x4 is needed.