Cove Cave

The walk to Cove Cave starts from Newcastle, a proper little coastal town at the foot of the Mournes, and takes you inland towards genuine wilderness. It's not a famous attraction - you won't find crowds here - but the cave itself is a real draw for anyone who likes a bit of geological drama and doesn't mind getting their boots muddy.

What you're actually looking at is a sea cave carved into the rock face, accessible by a steep path that rewards the effort with views back towards the coast. The cave mouth is the main event, and the rock formations around it tell you something about how water shapes stone over thousands of years. It's the kind of place where you can spend twenty minutes exploring or half an hour if you're the type to sit and take it in.

Historically-minded visitors will appreciate that caves like this have been shelter for centuries - whether human or animal. Families with older kids will find it interesting; younger ones might lose interest once they've clambered inside and back out again.

You're close enough to several campsites - Bloody Bridge Campsite and Tollymore Campsite are within striking distance - to make it work as a morning or afternoon excursion during a park stay. The Mournes offer far better-known walks, but if you want something less trampled and still worth the detour, this delivers. Bring a torch if you plan to explore the cave properly, and time your visit for daylight. There's no visitor centre or facilities, so come prepared.