Slieve Foye

The walk up Slieve Foye rewards you with one of the cleanest views across the Mourne Mountains you'll find anywhere near Newry. It's not the highest peak in the range, but that's rather the point - the climb is manageable without being a slouch, and you're not queuing with half of Northern Ireland to reach the summit.

The path itself is straightforward enough, winding through moorland with the sort of quiet you don't get near towns. On a clear day the view opens right up across the valley towards the higher peaks and down towards Carlingford Lough. Weather can roll in fast, mind you, so don't bank on those long vistas if clouds are gathering.

Walkers will find this a proper half-day outing. Families with older kids won't struggle, though younger ones might find the final push a bit steep. History buffs will be less thrilled - it's about the walk and the view rather than any ruins or stories.

If you're based at one of the caravan parks nearby - Kilbroney is closest at four miles out, with a solid rating - Slieve Foye makes an excellent morning mission before you head elsewhere in the Mournes. Autumn's the best time, when the light hits differently and you've got a decent chance of clear air. Bring decent footwear and check the weather before you head out. Free to walk, naturally, and you can be back for lunch.