Slieve Meelmore

Standing at 704 metres, this granite dome commands serious respect from anyone who tackles its slopes. The second-highest peak in the Mourne Mountains after Slieve Donard, Meelmore delivers a proper workout that'll have your legs screaming - but the panoramic views across County Down make every burning step worthwhile.

Experienced walkers will relish the challenge of the steep, pathless ascent from the Trassey Track car park near Newcastle. You're looking at roughly four hours return, scrambling over granite boulders and navigating boggy patches that can catch you off guard. Fair warning: this isn't a gentle family stroll. The mountain shows no mercy to the unprepared, and weather can turn nasty without notice.

From the summit cairn, the entire Mourne range spreads before you like a relief map come to life. On clear days, you'll spot the Isle of Man glinting on the horizon, while closer to hand, the Silent Valley Reservoir gleams like a jewel between the peaks. Serious hikers often combine Meelmore with neighbouring Slieve Meelbeg for a more substantial day out.

Staying at one of the nearby holiday parks around Newcastle puts you perfectly placed for an early morning assault on the summit. Tollymore Forest Park's campsites are particularly handy, giving you a proper base to recover after your mountain battle.