NORTHERN IRELAND
19. COUNTY DOWN, SLIEVE DONARD
Distance: 5.8 miles/12.2km | Time: 4.5 hours | Grade: Challenging | Total ascent: 827m
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At 850m, the summit of Slieve Donard is the highest point in Northern Ireland. It is also a supreme viewpoint on a clear day, with the Isle of Man, Wales and Scotland all visible on the skyline.
Much of its charm stems from its location; the Irish Sea hugs the mountain’s eastern base, while the charismatic peaks of the Mourne Mountains lie clustered to the west. No wonder it’s a magnet for hikers, and the classic hill walk in the province.
This route describes the most popular and straightforward approach to the summit: an out-andback ascent from the seaside town of Newcastle via Donard Wood (also known as Donard Forest) and the Glen River Track. There’s a rough mountain path all the way, but don’t underestimate the seriousness of the challenge. Bring full hill-walking gear, food and OSNI 1:50,000 map sheet 29.
1. START
Join a paved path in the south-west corner of the car park. Follow this past the grassy expanse of Donard Park, then plunge into the beautiful deciduous and pine trees of Donard Wood. The path climbs alongside the tumbling falls of Glen River. You pass several bridges along the way; cross the river at the first two bridges, then stay on the right bank at the third.
2. 1.1 MILES
A gate and stile marks the upper boundary of Donard Wood. Beyond this you emerge on to open mountainside, with Slieve Donard rearing ahead to the left. Look out for a conspicuous stone beehive structure on the opposite bank of the stream. This building was used as an ice house by the Slieve Donard Hotel before the advent of refrigeration.
The path is partially paved with stone slabs, which become steeper as you gain height.
Climb for a further 2km to reach the col between Slieve Donard and Slieve Commedagh (767m), the neighbouring peak to the west.
3. 2.5 MILES
The col is bisected by the Mourne Wall, a 20-mile-long granite structure that took 20 years to complete in the early 1900s. Turn left in front of the wall, and follow the path up the final slope to the summit of Slieve Donard. The ascent is steep and unrelenting, but ever-improving views reward your effort.
4. 2.9 MILES
The summit itself is marked by a tower and trig point, and a fabulous 360° panorama of mountain and coast. The large stone cairn, and a smaller one about 100m north, have been here since early Christian times. Take time to appreciate the breathtaking scenery, then reverse your outward journey back to the start.
USEFUL INFO
Starting point
The route begins at the large parking area for Donard Park, at the southern end of Newcastle town.
Terrain
Steep, rough mountain path with a 850m vertical ascent.
Map
OSNI 1:50,000 map sheet 29, or OSNI Activity Map Mournes.
Eat/drink
There are many fine pubs and restaurants located a short walk from Donard Park car park, in Newcastle town.
Stay
Treat yourself to a stay at the namesake Slieve Donard Hotel, a luxurious Victorian pile overlooking the sea in Newcastle. slievedonardhotel.com
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