Castlewellan

Mountains rise like sleeping giants around this County Down town, where Castlewellan Castle sits surrounded by landscaped parkland and the wild Mournes beckon beyond. The Forest Park here is something special - Ireland's largest arboretum sprawls across 1,100 acres, home to the national collection of conifers and some cracking walking trails.

Slievenaslat and Tullynasoo Mountain offer proper hill walking if you fancy a challenge, while gentler souls can potter around the castle grounds or fish at Mitchell's Lake. The Moorish Tower makes for a decent landmark when you're getting your bearings. Duck enthusiasts will find plenty to occupy them - The Long Duck Pond and Duck Pond are both well-stocked.

Newcastle sits just 15 minutes down the road, bringing you to the Irish Sea and Slieve Donard's towering presence. The whole area feels properly remote despite being well-connected - you're in Belfast within the hour but might as well be in another world.

Staying at one of the nearby holiday parks makes perfect sense here. Tollymore Forest Park borders the town and offers camping right in the forest canopy, while glamping options like Enniskeen Estate put you deep in the countryside. The area's a walker's paradise, with trails leading from your tent door straight into the Mournes.

Castlewellan works as a brilliant base for exploring both the mountains and coast. You'll dodge the crowds that plague busier spots while having proper outdoor adventures on your doorstep.