Slievelamagan

Standing at 704 metres, this granite dome rewards proper hillwalkers with some of the finest views in the Mournes. The ascent from Bloody Bridge car park is a steady slog up rocky terrain - definitely one for those comfortable on rough ground rather than casual Sunday strollers.

Experienced hikers will love the challenge. The final push to the summit involves scrambling over granite slabs, but the 360-degree panorama is absolutely worth the effort. On clear days you'll see across to Scotland, the Isle of Man, and the entire sweep of the Mournes spread out below.

Families with young children should probably give this one a miss. The terrain is unforgiving and the round trip takes a good four to five hours. But for fit walkers seeking proper mountain adventure just outside Newcastle, it's hard to beat.

This mountain pairs brilliantly with a stay at one of the nearby camping spots. Tollymore Campsite and Camping Tollymore Forest Park are both within easy reach, making it simple to tackle the peak early morning when the light is best. Weather changes fast up here, so pack layers and waterproofs regardless of the forecast down in Newcastle.