Mourne Coastal Route

Where the Mountains of Mourne sweep down to the sea - this iconic route follows the coast of County Down with Ireland's most beautiful mountain range as a constant backdrop. C.S. Lewis was inspired by these views; you will be too.

Why This Route?

The Mourne coast offers a perfect combination:

• Mountain drama - The Mournes rise steeply from the shore
• Sandy beaches - Newcastle, Tyrella, and hidden coves
• Historic harbours - Kilkeel and Annalong fishing villages
• Walking access - Trailheads into the Mournes throughout
• Literary connections - C.S. Lewis's inspiration for Narnia

The Mountains

The Mourne Mountains are Northern Ireland's highest peaks, with Slieve Donard reaching 850m. Unlike most Irish mountains, they rise dramatically from sea level, creating stunning contrasts.

The famous Mourne Wall - 22 miles of granite built in the early 1900s - traverses the summits and is a remarkable feat of engineering.

The Route

Starting from Newcastle

Begin in this Victorian seaside town at the foot of the Mournes. Donard Park provides the main trailhead for Slieve Donard, while the town offers excellent cafes and restaurants.

Bloody Bridge

A dramatic spot where a river cuts through to the sea. Named after a 17th-century massacre, it's now a peaceful picnic spot and walking trailhead.

Annalong

A working fishing village with a restored corn mill. The harbour is photogenic, and the marine drive beyond offers spectacular views.

Silent Valley Reservoir

A detour inland reveals this beautiful reservoir surrounded by mountains. The visitor centre explains the engineering achievement of supplying Belfast's water.

Kilkeel

The "capital" of the Kingdom of Mourne - a busy fishing port with the largest fleet in Northern Ireland. Fresh seafood is the highlight here.

Cranfield Beach

A hidden gem - a beautiful sandy beach near the point where Carlingford Lough meets the sea. On clear days, the Cooley Mountains in County Louth frame the view.

Rostrevor

A charming Victorian resort town backed by forest. The Cloughmore Stone - a 50-ton glacial erratic - sits on the hillside above, reputedly thrown by the giant Fionn mac Cumhaill.

Warrenpoint

End at this elegant town on Carlingford Lough, with views across to the Republic.

Walking Options

Slieve Donard from Newcastle

• Distance: 9km return
• Time: 4-5 hours
• Difficulty: Challenging
• Highlights: Highest peak in Northern Ireland, panoramic views

Bloody Bridge Coastal Path

• Distance: 4km return
• Time: 1.5 hours
• Difficulty: Easy
• Highlights: River gorge, coastal views

Silent Valley Loop

• Distance: 5km
• Time: 2 hours
• Difficulty: Easy
• Highlights: Reservoir views, mountain backdrop

Practical Tips

1. Newcastle gets busy in summer - Arrive early for parking
2. Donard summit is serious hiking - Proper boots and waterproofs essential
3. Silent Valley has parking charges - But well worth paying
4. Kilkeel fish & chips - The freshest you'll find anywhere
5. Weather changes quickly - Mountains create their own conditions

For Photographers

• Sunrise over the Mournes from Newcastle beach
• Annalong harbour with fishing boats
• Mourne Wall on the mountain traverse
• Rostrevor forest reflections