The Mournes

The Mourne Mountains are home to some of the most spectacular natural landscapes in the world. The Mourne Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is at the heart of this. From majestic mountains, to sweeping coastal views, the Mourne area is one of the most diverse and beautiful landscapes in Northern Ireland. 

Mourne Mountains 

The Mourne Mountains are famous around the world, thanks in part to the songwriter Percy French. The area is made up of fifteen peaks. The highest of the Mourne Mountains peaks is Slieve Donard mountains, which, at over 850 metres, is Northern Ireland’s highest summit. 

Experienced hillwalkers and families alike are well catered for in the Mourne Mountains. With trails, paths and parks to suit all abilities, you can enjoy expansive views of our varied landscapes and unspoiled terrain. 

Natural Woodlands 

Roam some of the most majestic wooded areas. Rostrevor Oakwood National Nature Reserve sits on the Mourne’s lower slopes outside the village of Rostrevor and beside Kilbroney Park. Comprising over forty two acres, the site is home to mature oak, ash and cherry trees, along with a number of bird of prey species. 

Manmade forests dot the Mourne Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty's landscape at Mourne Park, Tollymore Forest Park, Castlewellan Forest Park and Donard Park and Donard Forest. Lose yourself in the sights and sounds of our forests, or get up close and personal with local wildlife in our extensive moors. 

Coastal Landscapes and Waterways 

The Mourne Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty offers a sharp contrast between mountains and waters. Marvel at how the Mourne Mountains sweep down and meet the Irish sea in Newcastle. Walk the sands of the blue flag Cranfield Beach, or take in the sea air along Newcastle’s seafront promenade. 

Moving inland, the Mourne Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is crisscrossed by natural open watersways. The fjord-like Carlingford Lough’s waters are frequented by seals and dolphins, while the glassy Silent Valley Reservoir  in the Silent Valley Mountain Park offers a tranquil oasis in the heart of the Mourne Mountains. 

Wildlife in the Mourne Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty 

The unspoiled natural beauty of the Mourne Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty offers a haven for a wide variety of bird, fish, mammal and insect species. Keep an eye out for native wildlife, like the Irish Hare or the Snow Bunting. 

Our coastal waters are home to dolphins, seals, otters and porpoises, as well as a vast array of fish species. Cast your eyes up to the sky, and you might catch a glimpse of the rare ring ouzel or the majestic kestrel.