Mourne Mountain Region

Mourne Mountain Region

From dramatic mountains sweeping down to the sea to miles of sandy beaches and magical Forest Parks, The Mourne Region has it all.

The Mourne Mountain range has many walks for all abilities and boasts many wonderful views. The tallest peak Slieve Donard was the inspiration for the Percy French song “Where the Mountains of Mourne sweep down to the sea” as it dominates the quaint seaside town of Newcastle. The world class Royal County Down Golf Club sits between Newcastle and Murlough Beach which is a protected wildlife reserve and one of the most picturesque places for a swim in Ireland.

There are 3 forest parks in the Mourne area. Tollymore Forest is 3 miles outside Newcastle and Castlewellan Forest is 5 miles from Newcastle. It has many forest walks and a mature maze to keep you occupied for hours.  Kilbroney Park can be found in the pretty village of Rostrevor and was one of the areas which inspired CS Lewis to write The Tales of Narnia. You can climb up to the Cloughmor Stone and look out over Carlingford Lough to the Cooley Mountains. All three parks have designated bike tracks and bike hire is available.

Downpatrick is also close by and you can visit St Patrick’s Grave at the Cathedral and follow St Patrick’s trail. The many stone circles and Neolithic Dolmens in the area are worth a visit as they will all have a spectacular view of The Mournes.

There is so much to discover in the Mourne Region and all over Northern Ireland. To learn more about discovering the Mourne Mountains click HERE.

Hidden Ireland also have two Country Houses where you can stay and explore this whole area.