Mourne Way Trek

This 1rst section of the Mourne Way Trek marvellously varied carries you from the coast, across the edge of the Mourne Mountains. The route begins by climbing from urban parkland to a series of high forest tracks. This is a challenging yet rewarding walk, some of which crosses open hill side with no waymarking so please ensure you are adequatley prepared.

This 1rst section takes you through Murlough Bay and Murlough Natural reserve. A trail between beach, sea, and forest where fantastic panoramic views await to amaze you.

This two-days circular route offers a perfect snapshot of life in rural County Down. The lowland terrain makes it accessible to all fit walkers, while the combination of forest trails, quiet, undulating country lanes and a long, golden Newcastle Beach ensures constant scenic diversity. All set within striking distance of Newcastle’s traditional, seaside-resort hospitality.

Slieve Donard at 850m (2,789 ft) is the highest of the Mourne Mountains. The views from the summit are extensive and on a clear day the Isle of Man, Wicklow, Donegal, Wales, and Scotland may be seen, as well as the long stretch of Newcastle Beach.

This walk follows a popular route leading to the summit of Slieve Donard (850m), Northern Ireland highest mountain. From Newcastle it ascends through the woods along the Glen River and climbs 3km to the head of the river valley, high on the slopes below Slieve Donard ad Slieve Commedagh (765m). From here the path continues to the Saddle (the col between Donard and Commedagh) from which point either summit can be reached.

Covering a relatively short distance from coast to open moorland, the Granite Trail offers the opportunity to see artifacts from the once thriving granite industry of Mourne. Differing natural habitats can be enjoyed as you walk through coniferous forest and mature woodland beside mountain streams and rivers.

The Murlough Nature Trail starts and finishes in the National Trust car park. The trail initially follows the main visitor walkway, Slidderyford Path, to Murlough Beach. After a short walk along the beach one enters the Central Reserve via the Archaeology Path. From here the trail loops back to the car park by way of the Back Track. The trail is marked with yellow-topped posts and has a number of points of interest along it.

This walk begins in the Bloody Bridge car park (on the coast), follows the Bloody Bridge River and then the Mourne Wall to the summit of Slieve Donard (850m).