Mourne Mountains

The Mourne Mountains rise dramatically from the coast near Newry, and the first time you see them - whether driving south from Belfast or walking the coastal path - they stop you dead. Twelve granite peaks strung across the horizon like a dragon's spine. If you're serious about walking, you're in the right place.

The range is manageable on foot but not a doddle. Slieve Donard, the highest at 850 metres, draws most visitors, though the real magic happens if you venture beyond the obvious routes. The Mourne Wall - a dry stone barrier running across seven peaks - is a proper undertaking, a full day's walk that rewards you with views across the Irish Sea into Scotland on clear days. Walkers and serious hikers will absolutely lose themselves here for days.

Families with younger legs should stick to the lower routes around Annalong or the coastal stretches. The terrain gets rough quickly, and without proper boots and weather sense, it's easy to come unstuck. Northern Ireland's weather changes faster than you'd believe.

The surrounding area is well served by glamping and caravan parks. Oakwood and Greenview, both just a couple of miles away, offer proper comfort after days outdoors - worth booking if you're planning a serious walking holiday. The Rock and Kilbroney provide good alternatives if you prefer traditional camping.

Go between May and September if you want reliable weather. Winter brings cloud that sits thick in the valleys and makes navigation risky. This isn't a quick detour - allow at least two or three days if you want to actually experience the place rather than snap the view and leave.