Mournes KJS

The Hare’s Gap is the most dramatic mountain pass in the Mournes. Its sharply defined outline indicates that ice once passed this way; using the Gap’s convenient north-south alignment to advance and retreat over the entire Mournes range. In more recent times the Hare’s Gap marked the exit point for smuggled goods which had crossed the hills from the coast along the Brandy Pad. The contraband (which included soap, leather, spices and coffee) was carried through the mountains on the backs of small ponies which descended by the Hare’s Gap to the valley of the Trassey River and on to Hilltown (a favourite distribution centre). Nowadays, the Gap’s easily reached central location on the rim of the High Mournes makes it a popular starting point for routes scaling adjoining peaks, or simply for a walk along the gentle contours of the Brandy Pad.

A moderate linear walk linking Trassey Track and Bloody Bridge via the Brandy Pad, taking in sights such as the Mourne Wall, the Castles, Slieve Commedagh and Slieve Donard. A more challenging alternative route is an option, by summiting Slievenaglogh and Slieve Commedagh, then following the Brandy Pad to Bloody Bridge.

This is a strenuous and challenging walk with some steep ascents, but it is certainly worth it. The walk takes in three of the four highest peaks in the Mourne Mountains (Slieve Donard 853m, Slieve Commedagh 765m, Slieve Bearnagh 739m) and also the Brandy Pad – the well-trodden and infamous smugglers track. The walk gives wonderful views to the Irish Sea and to the heart of the High Mournes.

This 2nd section of the Mourne Way Trek, is the Trassey Track, one of the busiest walkers’ routes into the Mournes. However, this is a challenging yet rewarding walk, some of which crosses open hill side with no waymarking so please ensure you are adequatley prepared. Almost all of the distance is off-road, with forest trails and mountain paths predominating. Highlights include a climb to 500m at the summit of Butter Mountain.

A moderate circular walk in the High Mournes, summiting two of the seven highest peaks in the region, Slieve Meelmore and Slieve Meelbeg.

This network of paths formed part of an intricate transport system connecting the settlements of Castlewellan, Annsborough, Maghera, Dundrum, Bryansford and Newcastle. These laneways offered the shortest, easiest routes for horse and cart; for example, transporting coal from Dundrum to Castlewellan; so avoiding the steep hill at Ardnabannon. Nowadays these routes offer peaceful country walks away from busy main roads.

The walk circumnavigates Castlewellan Lake. A short steep climb uphill brings you to the view point over the lake : Moorish Tower.

This 2nd section of the Newcastle Way Trail takes you through Tollymore and Castlewellan Forest Park. Those forest park are hiding those wonderful natural beauties from urban civilization. Take your time to observe those flora and fauna on the paths that wind through the trees.