Where stone walls climb to cloud-level, rivers carve deep glens, and every path leads into big, open mountain country.
The Mourne Mountains National Landscape (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) is Northern Ireland’s most dramatic upland region — a wild sweep of granite peaks, deep glacial valleys, quiet reservoirs, and stone-walled ridgelines rising steeply from the coastal plain of the Irish Sea. Located in County Down, just south of Belfast and Newry, the Mournes form one of the most iconic walking landscapes on the island of Ireland.
This is a landscape made for walking holidays — from gentle valley routes and riverside paths to high-level ridge walks across summits like Slieve Donard, Slieve Binnian, and Slieve Commedagh. Waymarked trails, historic mountain paths, and open access land combine to offer everything from short scenic walks to full-day mountain adventures.
The Mournes are also a premier destination for outdoor adventures, with wild swimming in mountain rivers, trail running on granite slopes, rock climbing on crags, and paddle sports along the nearby coast at Newcastle, Annalong, and Kilkeel.
They’re equally appealing for cycling holidays, with quiet mountain roads, coastal routes, and challenging climbs linking seaside towns to high upland roads and moorland crossings. Scenic rides connect Newcastle, Rostrevor, Hilltown, and the silent interior of the mountains.
And when the day winds down, you’ll find a wide range of places to stay — from seaside guesthouses and rural cottages to mountain-edge inns and walker-friendly B&Bs around Newcastle, Rostrevor, Annalong, and Kilkeel.
Northern Ireland’s highest peak (850m). A classic mountain ascent from Newcastle following riverside paths into open granite highlands, with sweeping views over the Irish Sea.
A legendary high-level trail following the corrugated granite wall across multiple summits, including Slieve Donard, Slieve Commedagh, and Slieve Binnian.
Peaceful reservoir walks framed by steep peaks, forests, and mountain reflections — perfect for gentle day walking with big scenery.
One of the Mournes’ most dramatic mountains, with rocky summits, tors, and hidden mountain lakes set high above the valleys.
Lower-level woodland and riverside walking beneath the southern Mournes, with panoramic views across Carlingford Lough.
It lies in County Down, Northern Ireland, stretching from the coast at Newcastle and Kilkeel inland to Hilltown and Rostrevor at the foot of the mountains.
Slieve Donard, the Mourne Wall ridge, Silent Valley to Ben Crom, Slieve Binnian, and forest walks at Rostrevor are among the most popular.
Yes — while the high summits are challenging, there are many gentle valley, forest, and reservoir walks suitable for all abilities.
Yes — Newcastle is well served by bus from Belfast, and many classic walks start directly from the town. Rostrevor and Kilkeel are also accessible by public transport.
Late spring through early autumn offers the best conditions for mountain walking. Winter brings dramatic scenery but requires proper preparation and experience.
