The best walks and hikes around Glenloughan Upper

The region around Glenloughan Upper offers diverse hiking terrain, primarily characterized by the dramatic landscapes of the Mourne Mountains. You'll find a network of paths and tracks ranging from moderate climbs to strenuous ascents on peaks like Slieve Donard. There are also enchanting forests, such as those in Kilbroney Park, and scenic routes along Carlingford Lough, providing varied environments from serene strolls to challenging mountain trails.

Yes, there are several easy options. For a gentle forest walk with a notable landmark, consider the Cloughmore Stone – View of Carlingford Lough loop from Killowen, which is about 2.6 km. Another easy route is the Cows in Mourne AONB – Stone Bridge in Mourne AONB loop from Kilkeel, covering about 7.3 km through the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

The area is rich in natural landmarks and viewpoints. The iconic Cloughmore Stone in Kilbroney Park offers stunning panoramic views of Carlingford Lough and the Mourne Mountains. The Slieve Foye Summit on the Cooley Peninsula also provides excellent vistas of the Mournes. Additionally, the Silent Valley Reservoir within the Mourne Mountains offers peaceful views and impressive sights of the Mourne Wall.

Kilbroney Park, near Rostrevor, is an excellent choice for families. It offers various hiking trails through lush forests, which are said to have inspired C.S. Lewis's 'Chronicles of Narnia.' The park provides diverse environments suitable for different ages and abilities, including the path to the Cloughmore Stone.

Many trails in the Mourne Mountains and surrounding areas are dog-friendly, but it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially in areas with livestock or protected wildlife. Kilbroney Park, for example, is generally welcoming to dogs. Always check local signage for specific restrictions on individual routes or within certain park areas.

There are over 110 hiking routes available around Glenloughan Upper, catering to various skill levels. This includes approximately 40 easy routes, 50 moderate routes, and 20 difficult routes, ensuring options for everyone from casual walkers to experienced mountaineers.

The hiking routes around Glenloughan Upper are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 300 reviews. Hikers often praise the dramatic mountain scenery of the Mournes, the stunning views over Carlingford Lough, and the varied environments offered by the forests and woodlands.

Yes, many routes in the region are designed as circular walks. An example is the Start of Mourne Way Trail – Sandy beach at Lough Shanna loop from Attical, which is a moderate 10.4 km path. Another is the Eagle Mountain loop from Attical, a moderate 12.4 km trail offering significant elevation.

While specific public transport options vary, many trailheads in the Mourne Mountains and Kilbroney Park areas have dedicated parking facilities. For example, Kilbroney Park offers ample parking for visitors accessing the Cloughmore Stone trail. It's advisable to research specific trailhead access and parking availability for your chosen route in advance, as public transport can be limited in some of the more remote mountain areas.

Absolutely. The Mourne Mountains offer numerous challenging routes. For a significant ascent and distance, consider the Slieve Doan via Lough Shanna — Mourne, a moderate-to-difficult 16.2 km trail with substantial elevation gain. The region also provides access to parts of the Mourne Wall, which involves strenuous, long-distance hiking across multiple peaks.

The best time to hike around Glenloughan Upper is generally during the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October) when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. During these periods, you'll experience the full beauty of the landscapes. Winter hiking is possible but requires appropriate gear and experience due to potentially harsh conditions, including boggy terrain and strong winds, especially at higher elevations.