Spelga Reservoir

The drive up to Spelga Reservoir winds through the Mourne Mountains in a way that makes you understand why people keep coming back to this corner of Northern Ireland. Once you arrive, you're looking at a proper mountain lake - grey-blue water hemmed in by rough moorland and distant peaks. It's not flashy. There are no facilities, no cafes, no visitor centre trying to sell you something. Just water, hills, and the kind of quiet you don't get often.

Walkers absolutely love this place. The reservoir sits at 340 metres, so the air feels different up here. You can circuit the water on decent paths, though the terrain is boggy in places and the weather can turn without warning - bring proper boots and a windproof. Most people allow two to three hours for a full loop. It's the sort of walk where you'll see maybe a handful of other people, even on weekends.

If you're staying at one of the nearby glamping spots or campsites - Greenview is closest at just over two miles, while Tollymore Campsite is your best bet for a full-on camping experience with proper facilities - Spelga makes for a cracking morning excursion. It punches above its weight for views without demanding a mountain scramble. The light changes constantly off the water, so photography types will be clicking away for hours.

Not one for small children or anyone after an easy stroll, mind. But if you want to feel properly in the mountains without needing technical kit, this delivers.