Northern Ireland’s Mourne Mountains: The Complete Guide
The Mourne Mountains are different from other mountain ranges; they are the most dramatic and highest mountains in Northern Ireland. It is one of the best areas to explore in the region, and you don’t need to reach the highest peaks in order to enjoy the majestic beauty. You can enjoy the jaw-dropping beauty and scenery from the foothills along the gentle trails. These Northern Ireland hiking trails have a lot of coastal views, impressive gardens, and forest parks.
In order to enjoy the natural beauty of Mourne mountains, you don’t need to be an expert. You can enjoy the scenic views from the man-made landmarks. Here is all you need to know about the amazing Mourne mountains.
History
The Mourne Mountains are a range of granite, and it was formed approximately 56 million years ago. During the same period of geological activity Giant’s causeway was formed. The Mourne Mountains are crisscrossed by an amazing network of tracks and paths. These paths provide the walkers an opportunity for exploration.
In Northern Ireland, Slieve Donard is the highest mountain in the Mournes. Moreover, it is the highest mountain in Ireland. The mountain includes a mix of privately owned farms. The mountains are easy to hike and comprise protected areas managed by the National Trust.
These mountains are dream locations and great inspiration for writers. The author of the famous books, “The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe,” once wrote that he got the inspiration for the mythical land of Narnia from these landscapes. Varied parts of the famous series Game of Thrones are also shot on these landscapes.
The mountains were not only an inspiration for directors and writers but also a favorite hiding spot for the smugglers. In the 19th century, the coast near New Castle was used to land the ships of spices, silk, and brandy. Then the loads were carried over the mountains with the help of the trail named “Brandy Pad.” The trail can be walked even today also.
Places to Explore
The Mourne Mountains has a wide range of incredible natural wonders, including different landscapes and elevations. You get an opportunity to explore the coastal areas, forests, and sparkling loughs along a single trail.
The Mourne Mountains are one of the best rock climbing areas in Ireland. There is a wide range of opportunities for rock climbing in the area. There is a variety of rock climbing routes; however, most of them are best for experienced climbers. The most famous rock in the area is Pigeon Rock and is famous because it needs the shortest hike in order to reach it. It is the best place to start climbing.
The Mourne Mountains are also known for its rugged looks but is also famous for its big man-made wall known as the Mourne Walls, The wall was constructed in the 19th century, and it took around 18 years to build this wall. The wall was completed in 1922 and was constructed with the intent to keep the livestock away from the water in the reservoir of the Silent Valley. The height of this wall varies; however, in some places, its height is up to 8 feet. This huge wall leads over varied summits in the Mourne, and it also leads to the highest mountains; Slieve Commedagh and Slieve Donard.
Mourne Mountain Hikes
The Mourne Mountains are considered one of the best hiking and walking destinations for hikers in Northern Ireland. It has well-maintained and amazing trails. You can also expect rambling trails in the mountains that are appropriate for walkers.
The biggest mountain is the Slieve Donard, and the hike to its top is only 3 miles from each way, starting from Newcastle. As you walk up, you get fantastic opportunities to enjoy oceanic views. You might also be able to see the Isle of Man and Scotland.
If you want a circular path, you should start from the parking lot of Carrick Little. From here, you can begin a 7-mil loop that includes a track along the Mourne Wall and finally take you to the Slieve Binnian, which is the third highest peak. You will have to climb granite rocks in order to reach the peak. However, if you want to skip this, you can follow the downhill path that is located between the Slieve Lamagan and Slieve Binnian. The train includes Annalong forest and Lough Blue, and finally, it takes you back to the parking lot.
In order to explore more hiking routes, you can opt for stopping at the information center. Here you can get the pack of route cards named “Mourne Mountain Walks.” If you love cycling, you can also enjoy the Mourne by cycle as it has seven routes for cycling.
If you want to have the real Mourned experience, it better to go with someone who knows the mountains properly. You can get a guide from the visitors’ centers.
How to Visit
The best time to visit the Mourne Mountains is August. During this time, you can enrich your experience by participating in the Mourne Mountain Challenge. The walk includes traveling across all the seven peaks in a single day.
July and August are not only a good time but also the busiest time as the weather during these days is best suited for walking. It is free to walk in the Mourne Mountains; however, if you want flexibility in the walk plan, you can opt for the Mourne Shuttle Service. This shuttle can pick you from the end of the route and can drop you back to the starting point if you do not want to walk back.
How to Get There
The Mourne Mountains are located in Co. Down, Northern Ireland. The range is located 60 miles north of Dublin or 30 miles south of Belfast. You can self-drive by car, and it is the easiest way to reach the mountains. You can reach New Castle by coach bus also with one change. It totally depends on the route and the day you plan to travel.
