Lough Island Reavy

Rising from the Mourne Mountains like a dark mirror, this reservoir catches your breath the moment you glimpse it through the heather. Lough Island Reavy sits at around 1,200 feet above sea level, making it one of Northern Ireland's highest lakes and arguably one of its most dramatic.

The walk up from the Silent Valley area takes about 45 minutes on a well-defined path, though it's a proper climb that'll get your heart pumping. Once you reach the shore, the views across to Slieve Binnian and the surrounding peaks are absolutely cracking. The water itself is crystal clear and surprisingly deep - this isn't a paddling lake, mind you.

Hikers and photographers will love this spot, especially on clear days when the mountains reflect perfectly in the still water. Families with older children who don't mind a decent walk will find it rewarding, but toddlers definitely won't manage the ascent. The silence up here is profound - just wind and maybe the distant call of a raven.

From Newcastle, you're looking at a 20-minute drive to the Silent Valley car park, then the walk begins. Several nearby campsites like Tollymore Campsite and The Rock Caravan and Camping make this a lovely day trip during a Mourne Mountains holiday. Allow half a day including the walk - longer if you want to explore the surrounding peaks.