Ballyoully Mountain

The walk up Ballyoully Mountain rewards you with views across County Down that stretch properly far - on a clear day you're looking right across the Mourne range. It's not the highest peak in the area, but that's rather the point. The climb is steep enough to feel like proper exercise without needing mountaineering kit, and you can bag it in a couple of hours from the base.

What you get at the top is honestly the main draw here. The panorama across Newry and beyond justifies the effort, especially if you're staying at one of the caravan parks nearby. Kilbroney Caravan Park sits just 4.5 miles away and makes a sensible base for a weekend of fell walking.

Walkers will get the most from this one - families with children should reckon on the climb being a bit steep for smaller legs, though teenagers keen on hiking will find it manageable. If you're after something gentler, the surrounding countryside offers plenty of lower-level ambles.

Timing matters. Early morning or late afternoon sun makes the vistas sing. Go during midweek if possible - weekends can get busy, particularly if there's decent weather. There's no visitor centre or café up top, so bring water and snacks. The mountain is free to access and there's typically parking near the trailhead, though specifics depend on which route you take up.

If you're planning a week around the Mourne Mountains, Ballyoully slots in nicely alongside longer walks. It's the sort of peak you'd do on day two when you're getting your legs under you.