Slieve Donard

About

Slieve Donard is the tallest peak in Northern Ireland, rising to 850 metres (2,790 ft) in the Mourne Mountains. It dominates the eastern coast of County Down and offers sweeping views of the Irish Sea, Belfast Lough, and, on clear days, the cliffs of the Isle of Man. The mountain is a popular destination for hikers, photographers and history buffs alike, as it combines natural beauty with a rich cultural legacy. The terrain is largely granite, featuring steep ridges and crags that become increasingly rugged in the higher reaches. The summit is crowned by a cairn, a stone tower and the remnants of the Mourne Wall, a 14‑kilometre long stone fence built in the early twentieth century to protect the forest. The wall, together with the summit cairns, is a testament to the mountain’s strategic and recreational significance. There are several well‑marked routes to the top, the most frequented starting from Donard Forest on the northern slopes. Hikers can follow a gentle forest trail that gradually eases into the grassland and then onto a narrow, rocky ascent to the summit. Those seeking a challenge may opt for more direct climbs that involve scrambling over boulders and negotiating a steep ridge. A straight line from the summit to the sea offers spectacular panoramas. Slieve Donard has long been intertwined with Irish mythology and Christian lore. It is associated with the legendary Saint Donard and was once a pilgrimage site. Its ancient burial cairns, believed to be the oldest passage tomb in Britain and Ireland, add to the mountain’s mystique. Today, visitors can experience a mix of natural splendour, sport, and a touch of legend all in one walk.

Highlights

• Summit View
• Mourne Wall
• Ancient Cairns

Must-See Areas

Good to Know

At a glance

• Typical visit: about 3 hours