Romantic Getaways in Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion

Spend a little time in the mythical Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion and you’ll understand what inspired Percy French to pen his famous ballad Mountains o’ Mourne. The hero of the song longs to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and spend time with his muse ‘where dark Mourne sweeps down to the sea’.  The Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion still inspires that old fashioned romance and there’s no better place to reignite the embers of love. Where the Mountains of Mourne sweep you off your feet.

You can get your romantic stay underway at Killeavy Castle Estate. Killeavy Castle Estate near Newry City is a top romantic getaway in Ireland, perfect for couples seeking peace, luxury, and sustainability surrounded by the scenic Ring of Gullion.  Killeavy Castle Estate is set into the natural environment and surrounded by woodlands on the lower slopes of Slieve Gullion. There is a real sense of fresh air and living both in and with nature. Sustainability is at the heart of the hotel owner’s ethos. Mick and Robin Boyle have made their sustainable principles a priority in the day to day running of the hotel and have a particular focus on the use of local produce to reduce cost and transportation emissions.  During your stay, you’ll no doubt see them cajoling the estate’s very own Longhorn Cattle and Cheviot Sheep or taking in produce from the Walled Garden.  You can breathe deep, relax and make the most of the hotel’s forest trails or spend the afternoon looking out to Slieve Gullion from the wonderful spa while they prepare your lunch.

Slieve Donard Resort and Spa is another fabulous place to spend some quality time together, you can get away from it all but there is always the option for some action nearby. Overlooking the beach at Newcastle you’ll have access to all this lovely little coastal town has to offer. Stay just steps from the iconic Royal County Down Golf links, ranked among the best golf courses in the world and located beside Slieve Donard Resort and Spa — a top pick for romantic breaks in Northern Ireland but if golf is not your passion, there’s plenty of pampering and luxury treatments on offer here too!

Spa Breaks and Wellness Escapes

The Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion region offers some of the best spa breaks in Northern Ireland. From the luxury spa at Slieve Donard Resort and Spa to wellness retreats at Burrendale Hotel, Country Club & Spa, you can find a full range of treatments and wellness experiences to reconnect and relax together.

Romantic Walks and Mountain Views

Walk hand-in-hand in the wild splendour of the Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark. For breathtaking views, try a romantic ramble up Slieve Gullion. While the full loop trail is 13km, shorter walks are available for all fitness levels. The summit offers panoramic views and Ireland’s oldest burial cairn – a perfect place to pop the question or simply soak in the moment.

Walking hand in hand in a mountain wonderland

 Are you eager to get out and experience the wild splendour of Mourne Gullion Strangford?  Why not start off with a romantic ramble up Slieve Gullion. While the full circuit around the mountain comes in at over thirteen kilometres, there are much shorter, but no less sweeter options for walkers of all levels. The Ring of Gullion is an ancient ring dyke and remarkable views are sure to ignite your passions. There are stunning panoramas right out across the region and at the top you will find the island’s oldest burial cairn - the perfect spot to make your declaration of love or propose the next step in your journey together.

Trails, Ales & Distilleries

Love craft beer and scenic adventures? Try a Trails and Ales Cycling Tour hosted by Life Adventure Centre and Whitewater Brewery. This guided cycling tour takes you through the Mournes while sharing the stories and inspirations behind local brews.

Or, for something stronger, tour the Killowen Distillery – a small-batch distillery offering guided tastings of gin, poitín, and premium pot-still whiskey. You'll learn about traditional Irish whiskey-making while soaking in the views of the Mourne Mountains.

Beach Walks & Coastal Escapes

A romantic coastal stroll is never far away. Murlough Beach, north of Newcastle, is a four-mile stretch of sand backed by dunes and home to butterflies, birds, and unforgettable sea views. It’s the perfect place to unwind together before dinner.

Food Experiences for Two

Work up an appetite? The Mourne Gullion Strangford region is packed with culinary experiences. Sign up for a hands-on class at Mourne Seafood Cookery School in Kilkeel Harbour. You’ll learn how to prepare the freshest local seafood, paired with a glass of locally brewed Oyster Stout.

Prefer to let the chefs handle things? Head to the Harbour Inn in Annalong, known for its fresh, simple seafood and traditional charm. With views over the harbour, it’s a cosy place for an intimate evening meal.

Sweet Treats & Chocolate Delights

Finish your day in the quaint village of Killyleagh, the birthplace of Sir Hans Sloane – the inventor of drinking chocolate. Stop by the Dufferin Arms to try the famous Hans Sloane Drinking Chocolate, the perfect sweet note to end your romantic day.

Ready to plan your romantic break?

Whether you’re escaping for a weekend or celebrating something special, Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion is the perfect setting for love to bloom.