Slieve Bearnagh is one of the distinctive peaks in the Mourne Mountains, located in County Down, Northern Ireland. The hike to Slieve Bearnagh offers stunning panoramic views and is a popular choice for those seeking a challenging but rewarding hike. This is one of my favourite hikes in the Mournes! It’s recommended to start early in the day.

How to get to Slieve Bearnagh:

🚗By Car

• From Belfast: Take the A24 to Newcastle, then follow signs for Bryansford and Meelmore Lodge. The journey takes about 1 hour.

• From Dublin: Take the M1 north to Newry, then follow the A25 to Castlewellan and Newcastle. The drive takes about 2 hours.

The most common starting point for the Slieve Bearnagh hike ,is the Trassey Track car park. This car park provides convenient access to the Mourne Wall. The Mourne Wall runs across the Mournes and passes over the summit of Slieve Bearnagh. It was constructed in the early 20th century and serves as a guide for you when hiking in the Mournes .

There are different routes to reach the summit of Slieve Bearnagh, and the choice of route depends on factors such as your starting point and level of difficulty. The Hare's Gap route is a popular choice of mine.

The Slieve Bearnagh Hiking Route👇

Trail Overview

Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles) round trip

Duration: 4–6 hours

Difficulty: Challenging

Elevation Gain: Approximately 700 meters

Route Details:

Start Point: Meelmore Lodge (BT33 0PW)

Parking: Meelmore Lodge offers secure parking for £4. There's also a café and toilets available here.

Begin at Trassey Track: From Meelmore Lodge, follow the Trassey Track, a well-defined gravel path that gently ascends through the Mournes.

Reach the Hare's Gap: This narrow mountain pass is one of the most dramatic entry points into the Mournes, a col between Slieve Bearnagh and Slievenaglogh.

Climb to the Summit: From the Hare's Gap, This route provides breathtaking views but is known for its challenging ascent. Take a moment to soak in the views as you approach the granite tors that mark Slieve Bearnagh’s summit.

Explore the Summit Tors: These iconic tors on the summit make for fantastic photo opportunities and provide shelter from the wind.

📸Reaching the summit of Slieve Bearnagh you will be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding Mourne Mountains, Silent Valley, and the Irish Sea. On a clear day, the views extend as far as the Isle of Man and the Wicklow Mountains. Isnt it that awesome?!

Descend via the Same Route: Retrace your steps back to the Trassey Track for a safe return.

⚠️Weather conditions in the Mourne Mountains can change rapidly, so it's essential to check the weather forecast before your hike. Fog and mist can limit visibility, so carrying a map and compass is advisable.

💚 As with any natural area please follow the principles of Leave No Trace, respecting the environment and wildlife.

🍽️ Where to eat nearby:

1. Meelmore Lodge Café

Located at the trailhead, this cozy café offers hearty meals, hot drinks, and homemade treats. Perfect for refueling after your hike.

2. The Maghera Inn

A short drive from Meelmore Lodge, this traditional pub serves delicious Irish cuisine in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

• What to Try: The steak and Guinness pie is a local favourite.

3. Mourne Seafood Bar

For a more upscale option, head to this restaurant in Newcastle, where you can enjoy freshly caught seafood with views of the Mournes.

Hiking Slieve Bearnagh is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the raw beauty of Northern Ireland’s Mourne Mountains. From the iconic granite tors to the sweeping vistas and serene mountain lakes, every step of the journey is a reward and I hope you have an incredible time!