In Photos and Words

Slieve Donard

The Great "Irish" Wall of China

The Great “Irish” Wall of China

Slieve Donard, meaning “Dónairt’s mountain” is a 850 m (2,789 ft) mountain in County Down, Northern Ireland. It is part of the Mourne Mountains and the highest peak in Northern Ireland. Get driving directions from HERE.

The mountain is an easy climb but it still took about 6 hours as I climbed the hills at my own pace. This hike is lovely and very scenic. Most of the walk is along the side of a river with quite a few impressive waterfalls and rapids. The summit provides spectacular views of the coast and as far afield as Belfast, 30 miles north; Dublin, 55 miles to the south; and even The Isle of Man is visible on a clear day. The summit of the mountain is crowned with two prehistoric cairns which have looked down over the beauty of the Mourne region for thousands of years. Another magnificent sight is the Mourne Wall which runs over the hilltops like a Great Wall of China.

Slieve Donard

Slieve Donard is a great experience and whether you are experienced or not its right for you.

Newcastle

Newcastle

Make sure you pick a good day as it was the view from the top which made it so worthwhile. I would recommend hiking boots as the path is not great in places and can be wet and slippy.I would also recommend you bring a good quantity of water and some food as it is a long hike.

Enjoy!

Slieve Donard Photo Gallery

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