One way to experience the serene, tranquil beauty of the Mourne Mountains in Co Down is with a small group, all the better to appreciate the scale of the place. Another option is to take part in the Mourne International Walking Festival, which runs from next Friday to Sunday. Exploring the peaks and valleys with so many other walkers usually results in a great sense of fun and camaraderie.
Hosted this year by Newcastle Golf Club, about 50km south of Belfast and approximately two hours drive from Dublin, the festival will feature daily, self-guided lowland walks ranging between 10km and 40km, as well as more strenuous mountain hikes and rambles.
But the entertainment isn’t restricted to the beautiful landscape, with the annual Blister Ball on the Saturday night again offering tired limbs the chance to exert themselves on the dancefloor. See www.mournewalking.co.uk for more details on the festival, as well as information about local accommodation.
