The Mourne Mountains are one of the best outdoor areas to explore in Northern Ireland. Hikers and rock climbers flock to this coastal range in County Down to take in the unrivaled scenery, stretch their legs, and flex their skills while surveying the granite summits.
You don’t have to be an expert outdoorsman to enjoy the natural beauty of the Mourne Mountains. From pretty scenic walks to incredible man-made landmarks, here is everything to do and what to see when you visit the stunning Irish mountains.
History
The Mourne Mountains are a granite range that formed around 56 million years ago, during the same period of geological activity which gave rise to the Giant’s Causeway.
The largest mountain in the Mournes is Slieve Donard, which is the highest peak in Northern Ireland and one of the highest mountains in all of Ireland. The mountains are free to hike but consist of a mix of privately owned farmland and protected areas that are under the management of the National Trust.
C.S. Lewis, the author of “The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe,” was born in Belfast and frequently visited the Mourne Mountains with his family. He once wrote that the landscape here inspired his mythical land of Narnia. The same natural beauty inspired Percy French to pen the classic Irish song “The Mountains of Mourne.”
The mountains were also historically a favorite hideout for smugglers attempting to avoid taxes on luxury goods. In the 19th century, ships loaded with silk, spices, and brandy would land on the coast near New Castle, and the cargo would be transported over the mountains, following a trail known as the “Brandy Pad,” which can still be walked today.
What to See
With diverse elevations and landscapes, the natural wonders in the Mourne Mountains are incredibly varied. You can experience coastal areas, sparkling loughs, rocky outcroppings, and rich forests along a single trail.
One of the most famous landmarks in the Mourne Mountains is the manmade Mourne Wall. This impressive structure stretches for more than 22 miles and was built over 18 years, finally completed in 1922. It was designed to keep livestock away from the water in the nearby Silent Valley reservoir. The height of the stone wall varies, reaching up to 8 feet tall in some locations. Given its length, the Mourne Wall can be seen along multiple trails, but it is most commonly visited during the climb to the summit of Slieve Donard.
The Mournes are also the most extensive rock climbing area in all of Ireland, featuring a wide array of climbing opportunities that include exposed crags on the sides of peak summits. Rock climbing routes accommodate various skill levels, though many are best suited for experienced climbers. Among these, Pigeon Rock is particularly well-known due to its accessibility—it requires the shortest hike to reach it, making it the fastest place to get started climbing.
Best Mourne Mountain Hikes
The Mourne Mountains are celebrated by hikers as the premier walking destination in Northern Ireland. There are extensive, well-maintained trails that crisscross the peaks, alongside rambling paths in the foothills suitable for walkers of all abilities.
To conquer the highest mountain, set your sights on the summit of Slieve Donard. The hike to the top from Newcastle is just under 3 miles each way. Along the way, you will experience breathtaking ocean views and may even spot Scotland and the Isle of Man.
For the best circular path (which loops through different terrains, eliminating the need to retrace your steps), begin at the Carrick Little parking lot. This 7-mile loop initially follows a track alongside the Mourne Wall, guiding you to Slieve Binnian—the third highest peak in the range at 2,450 feet (747 meters). A scramble up granite rock is required to reach the true summit, but you can opt to bypass this and follow a downhill path between the North and South Tors (rocky outcroppings). The route continues past the beautiful waters of Lough Blue, through the Annalong forest, and back to the parking lot.
If you visit in August, consider participating in the Mourne Mountain Challenge, an organized event that traverses all seven peaks above 700 meters (2,300 feet) in a single, exhilarating day.
For even more hiking routes, you can acquire a reasonably priced pack of route cards titled “Mourne Mountain Walks,” produced by the Mourne Heritage Trust. Additionally, there are seven mapped routes for cycling if you prefer to enjoy the Mournes from a bike. You can find guides to the region’s hilly bike paths at local visitor centers.
How to Visit
The busiest time to visit the Mourne Mountains is during July and August when the weather is typically best suited for walking without the need for extensive rain gear or multiple layers of clothing.
Walking in the Mourne Mountains is free; however, for added flexibility in route planning, consider the Mourne Shuttle Service, a private van shuttle that can pick you up at the end of your route and take you back to your starting point. This service costs around 5 GBP per person, depending on group size and distance traveled.
When hiking in the Mourne Mountain wilderness, there are no facilities available, so it’s crucial to pack appropriate provisions for the duration of your walk. The nearest food and restroom facilities are located in the villages closest to your chosen trail, including Newcastle and Annalong Village.
How to Get There
The Mourne Mountains are situated in Co. Down, Northern Ireland, within the Province of Ulster. This range can be found about 30 miles south of Belfast or 60 miles north of Dublin.
The easiest way to reach the Mourne Mountains is by self-driving. While there are no direct buses from Belfast, you can reach the town of New Castle via coach bus with one change, depending on your specific travel day and route. Check the Translink website, which is one of the largest transportation providers in Northern Ireland, to find optimal schedules and prices.
