The Mourne Coastal Drive has all you could want from a road trip: scenery, adventure and charm
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Backed by the Mourne Mountains and weaving along Carlingford Lough and the Irish Sea, the Mourne Coastal Drive has all you could want from a road trip: scenery, adventure and charm. Please Note: This is a sample itinerary to offer suggestions and ideas for planning trips, you can contact your local Tourism Ireland representative for further information. Any mention of specific product on this site is meant to be used only as an example and does not represent an endorsement of that product by Tourism Ireland. Nearest airports: Belfast International Airport, George Best Belfast City Airport Distance: Approx 110km Days: 1 (tour can be customised to 2 or 3 days, as required).
Walking in the Mourne Mountains, Co. Down
Starting off in Newry, the route weaves through Warrenpoint, along the northern shore of the ever-pretty Carlingford Lough. This glacial fjord has seen a lot over the years, including Viking invasions and Norman conquests. It's also an outdoor wonderland, with everything from golf at the Warrenpoint Golf Club to scenic boat tours. Tracking the road along the shore, you'll reach the village of Rostrevor at the foot of Slieve Martin Mountain. Stunning walking trails suitable for all abilities run through Kilbroney Park and Rostrevor Forest, while Rostreover is also often considered the best place for mountain biking on the island of Ireland. If perfecting culinary skills is more up your street, head along to the Mourne Seafood Cookery School in Kilkeel. Overlooking the water, the cookery school specialises in local dishes. As you pass through the harbour village of Annalong the scenery revs up with the moody blue tones of the Mourne Mountains. The Mournes were an inspiration for author CS Lewis's Narnia - see them in winter and you'll realise why. Onwards to the scenic seaside town of Newcastle. A great place to end your trip with a walk along the beaches, through stunning mountain trails or a round of golf at the world-famous Royal County Down course. During your trip enjoy delicious locally sourced produce at Maisons in Rostrevor. The Slieve Donard Resort in Newcastle is a great base for exploring the area. You can also take a Bay and Harbour Cruise or a Castle Cruise of Carlingford Lough with Carlingford Lough Cruises.
This is a sample itinerary to offer suggestions and ideas for planning trips. You can contact your local Tourism Ireland representative here for further information. Please note, any mention of specific product on this itinerary is meant to be used only as an example and does not represent an endorsement of that product by Tourism Ireland.