Plan Your Trip
Getting Here
Your gateway to the Mourne Mountains is closer than you think. Here's everything you need to plan your journey.
From Belfast
45 minA24 via Ballynahinch
The most direct route from Belfast, passing through scenic County Down countryside.
From Dublin
90 minM1/A1 through Newry
Follow the motorway north, turning east at Newry towards the coast.
By Car
A car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. The Mourne Mountains are well-connected by road from both Belfast and Dublin.
From Belfast
Direct Route (45 min):
Take the A24 south through Ballynahinch, continuing to Clough and then Newcastle. This is the fastest and most straightforward route.
Scenic Alternative (+30 min):
Head to Downpatrick first, then take the coastal road through Dundrum and along the shore to Newcastle. Beautiful sea views and charming villages.
From Dublin
Main Route (90 min):
Take the M1 motorway north, crossing into Northern Ireland. Continue on the A1 to Newry, then head east on the A25 towards Kilkeel or north to Newcastle.
Via Carlingford (+20 min):
A scenic alternative via the Cooley Peninsula and Carlingford, crossing at the Carlingford Lough Ferry to Greencastle. Stunning lough views.
Where to Park
Knowing where to park is essential for a stress-free day in the mountains. Here's our guide to the main trailhead car parks.
Donard Park Car Park
Trailhead: Slieve Donard (Glen River)
Main trailhead for Slieve Donard. Fills early on weekends and bank holidays. Arrive before 8am in summer.
Bloody Bridge Car Park
Trailhead: Slieve Donard (Coastal)
Alternative Donard start via the dramatic Bloody Bridge River. Less crowded, more challenging route.
Carrick Little Car Park
Trailhead: Slieve Binnian
Only space for about 20 cars. Extremely popular - arrive very early or consider weekdays.
Ott Car Park
Trailhead: Mourne Wall walks
Quieter option for Mourne Wall walks. Good starting point for Slieve Muck and Lough Shannagh.
Meelmore Lodge
Trailhead: Hare's Gap, Slieve Bearnagh
Pay parking with facilities. Cafe, toilets, and accommodation. Central location for high Mournes.
Tollymore Forest Park
Fee appliesTrailhead: Forest walks, River Shimna
Entry fee applies. Ample parking, excellent facilities. Game of Thrones filming location.
Castlewellan Forest Park
Fee appliesTrailhead: MTB trails, Lake walks
Entry fee applies. Peace Maze, arboretum, and 27km of mountain bike trails.
By Bus
Ulsterbus provides regular services from Belfast to Newcastle, making car-free travel possible. However, services to smaller mountain villages are limited.
From: Belfast Europa Bus Centre
To: Newcastle
Duration: Approx. 1 hour 15 min
Main service connecting Belfast to Newcastle via Ballynahinch and Dundrum.
Note: Services to smaller towns like Kilkeel, Annalong, and Rostrevor are less frequent. Check Translink for current timetables.
By Ferry
Carlingford Lough Ferry
A scenic crossing between Greencastle (County Down) and Greenore (County Louth), offering stunning views of the Mourne Mountains rising from Carlingford Lough.
- •Foot passengers and cars welcome
- •Approximately 15-minute crossing
- •Connects the Cooley Peninsula (Ireland) with Mourne
- •Perfect for a scenic loop from Dublin
Check Carlingford Lough Ferry for current sailing times and fares.
Bike Hire
Explore on two wheels. From mountain biking at Castlewellan to e-bike tours along the coast, there are options for all abilities.
Life Adventure Centre
Located at Castlewellan Forest Park. Perfect for the 27km of MTB trails.
Various providers in Newcastle
Several hire options in town for exploring the coastal route.
Tips for Getting Here
A few things to know before you set off to make your journey smoother.
Arrive Early on Weekends
Popular trailhead car parks fill by 9am on summer weekends. Aim for an 8am arrival, or earlier for Slieve Donard.
Check Weather Before You Go
Mountain weather changes quickly. Check forecasts and be prepared to change plans if conditions deteriorate.
Download Offline Maps
Mobile signal can be patchy in the mountains. Download offline maps before you set off.
Plan for Amenities
Remote car parks often have no facilities. Meelmore Lodge and the forest parks are your best bet for cafes and toilets.