Mourne Mountains

"Where the Mountains of Mourne sweep down to the sea" (Percy French)

Mourne Mountains

The Mourne Mountains also called the Mountains of Mourne and referred to locally as 'The Mournes' are the highest and most dramatic mountain range in Northern Ireland.  The Mourne Mountains are located in County Down in Northern Ireland, about 30 miles south of Belfast and 60 miles north of Dublin.

The Mourne Wall

The Mourne Wall took 20 years to complete and is approximately 30km in length (1.5metres high).  The Mourne Wall crosses fifteen summits and was built as a catchment for the Silent Valley and Ben Crom reservoirs.  Whether you’re a seasoned mountaineer, or you want a fun family day out against the backdrop of the mountains, there is something for everyone. 

The Highest Mountain in Northern Ireland 

Slieve Donard mountain is Northern Ireland’s highest peak, standing at over 850 metres tall.  Although some sections are steep, a hike up Slieve Donard is fairly moderate, and can be achieved by most ability levels. 

Intrepid walkers will be rewarded with expansive views over the surrounding peaks, as well as the length of the famous Mourne Wall. Parking is available at the Donard car park, or Bloody Bridge, both of which are a few minutes from Newcastle Town. 

Ancient History on Slieve Commedagh 

Northern Ireland’s second highest peak, Slieve Commedagh, stands at 767 metres. In addition to being a challenging trek, Slieve Commedagh hosts some fascinating historical features. 

Scale the summit, and you’ll find an ancient burial cairn, as well as a small one-room tower where you can shelter from the elements.  

A Circular Hike on Slieve Binnian 

Slieve Binnian’s broad summit is bookended by granite tors to the North and South. A circular route traverses the mountain, taking in exquisite sites including an abandoned quarrying village, and a viewpoint over the glassy Ben Crom Reservoir. 

On the descent you’ll trek past the Blue Lough and the edge of Annalong Forest, before returning to the carpark, which is close to a number of local tearooms and cafes. 

Slieve Bearnagh and Hare’s Gap 

Slieve Bearnagh is one of the most distinctive peaks in the Mourne Mountains. Capped by two imposing granite tors, separated by a small gap, Slieve Bearnagh’s name translates to ‘Gap Mountain’. 

Trails on Slieve Bearnagh take in the surrounding cols, including Hare’s Gap and Pollaphuca, creating a rolling ascent and descent through changing terrain. 

Aquatic Views from Slieve Meelbeg 

Slieve Meelbeg is a relatively gentle ascent, leading to a summit at 700 metres above sea level. From the peak, you can take in views of the Fofanny Dam, Lough Shannagh, and the Blue Lough. 

Given its gentle ascent, and smooth terrain, Slieve Meelbeg is popular with families. 

Slieve Meelmore 

Often referred to as Slieve Meelbeg’s Twin, Slieve Meelmore is a similarly accessible peak. A circular route joins the two summits, for a longer day in the mountains. If you opt to take on Slieve Meelmore on its own, you can access a 480 metre ascent from the Trassey Track. 

At the summit, you’ll find a well preserved stone mason’s hut, built in the 1930s as a shelter for workmen during the process of building the Mourne Wall. 

The Source of the River Bann at Slieve Muck 

Slieve Muck features an out-and-back style trail, which is popular with hikers and trail runners alike. With moderate difficulty, Slieve Muck will appeal to experienced fell walkers and ambitious amateurs alike. 

The mountain has the honour of being the source of the Bann, Northern Ireland’s longest river.  

A Difficult Trek up Slieve Lamagan 

Slieve Lamagan is the smallest of the Mournes’ major peaks, but it is probably the most difficult to scale. Its name translates to ‘By Hands and Feet’, giving an indication of its steep and rocky slopes. 

Every challenge brings rewards. On reaching the summit of Slieve Lamagan, you’ll enjoy panoramic views over the nearby Slieve Binnian, Annalong Wood and Ben Crom Reservoir. 

Views into the Far Distance from Slieve Gullion 

The heart of the Ring of Gullion Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Slieve Gullion Mountain offers an authentic hiking experience, with the peak hosting a small lake and two ancient burial cairns, one of which is the highest surviving passage grave in Ireland.  

One highlight is the accessible trail, which allows children and adults with complex sensory needs to explore the mountain’s slopes and woods. Scaling Slieve Gullion offers some of the finest views anywhere in Ireland. On a clear day, you can see the Isle of Man to the East, and the Wicklow Mountains to the South.