Slievenamaddy

Standing at 445 metres, this modest peak in the Mournes delivers proper mountain views without the lung-busting slog of its taller neighbours. The climb from the Bloody Bridge car park takes about two hours return, following a well-marked path that winds through heather and granite outcrops. From Newcastle, it's barely five minutes' drive to the trailhead.

Families with older children will find this one manageable - my eight-year-old made it up without too much complaining, though the final scramble over loose stones had her grumbling. The summit views stretch across Newcastle Bay and inland to the higher Mournes, with Slieve Donard looming impressively to the north.

What makes Slievenamaddy worth the effort is its accessibility. Unlike the more popular peaks that get crowded at weekends, you might have this one largely to yourself on a Tuesday morning. The path can get boggy after rain, so decent boots are essential.

For those staying at nearby Tollymore Campsite or Windsor Holiday Park, it's an ideal warm-up before tackling the bigger peaks. Allow three hours if you want to linger at the top with a proper picnic. Early morning starts reward you with clearer air and fewer people, plus you'll be back down before the afternoon heat makes the climb less pleasant.