Altaggart Mountain

The walk up Altaggart Mountain rewards you with proper Mourne Mountain views without requiring technical climbing skills or a full day's commitment. It's a straightforward hill rather than a dramatic peak, which makes it ideal for families or anyone after a decent walk without the slog of the bigger summits nearby.

From the summit you get sight lines across the whole range - Slieve Donard dominates the view to the south, and on a clear day you can pick out the coast towards Carlingford Lough. The terrain is moorland and rough grass underfoot, so waterproof boots aren't optional here. Allow two to three hours return depending on fitness and how long you fancy lingering at the top.

It's free to walk, naturally. The best approach is from the Newry side, and the route is well-enough trodden that navigation isn't an issue in decent visibility. Winter conditions can make it slippery though - I'd avoid after heavy rain unless you're properly equipped.

Stay at Greenview Glamping or Oakwood, both just minutes away, and you've got the Mournes on your doorstep without fighting the car parks at the main trailheads. If you're mixing walks across the range, Altaggart makes a good second-day objective after something bigger. It's not showy enough for Instagram bragging, but it's a proper morning well spent.