The best walks and hikes around Ballymoney

Hare's Gap is a dramatic mountain pass nestled in the heart of the Mourne Mountains. This striking pass, situated between Slieve Bearnagh and Slievenaglogh, offers hikers a blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. From this vantage point, hikers are treated to panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. The pass itself is historically significant, having once served as a route for smuggling goods across the mountains, adding a layer of intrigue to the hike. Hare's Gap is a popular starting point for various hikes, including ascents of Slieve Bearnagh and Slieve Meelmore.

The Brandy Pad is a historic trail that winds through the heart of the Mourne Mountains in Northern Ireland. Originally used by smugglers to transport goods such as brandy, tobacco, and spices, this path offers hikers a unique blend of natural beauty and rich history. The trail begins at Trassey Track and traverses the rugged terrain of the Mournes, passing by notable landmarks like the Mourne Wall and the Castles, a series of rocky tors. Hikers are treated to panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and peaks, including Slieve Commedagh and Slieve Donard. The path is generally well-maintained, though sections can be challenging due to rocky and uneven ground. The Brandy Pad is suitable for experienced hikers looking for a moderately strenuous route that combines scenic vistas with a touch of local lore.

That moment where the mountain trail opens up to sea view bliss. Standing at this lookout in the Mourne Mountains, you’re treated to a wide, sweeping scene. A simple, beautiful reward for your walk, one of those views you’ll want to revisit in your memory long after the hike.

This spot isn't just a geographic point, it's where paths converge and views open to both the remote moorland above and the familiar valleys behind. Shared by more than 90% of visitors, its quiet drama and sweeping outlooks make it a memorable pause on any Mourne hike.

Reaching the summit of Slieve Donard feels like stepping into a small, timeless world. There, the stone tower and cairn stand quietly... a simple yet powerful landmark marking the peak of Northern Ireland’s highest mountain. This spot offers more than panoramic views across the Mournes, it anchors the moment, inviting you to pause and reflect on your journey.

Hare’s Gap is one of the most iconic passes in the Mourne Mountains, marked by its rugged stile and dramatic views that open up across the range. Once a historic smuggling route, it remains a natural gateway into the high Mournes, with steep paths and striking rock formations framing the way. From here, the landscape unfolds in every direction, making it a perfect spot to pause, take in the scenery, and appreciate the wild beauty of these mountains.

Slieve Commedagh, at 767 meters, is the second-highest peak in the Mourne Mountains and a rewarding climb for any hiker. Its summit offers sweeping views across the Mournes and out to the Irish Sea, a reminder of how close these mountains sit to the coast. The ascent is steep and demanding, often over pathless ground, but never overly technical in good weather. You can climb it on its own or link it with nearby peaks such as Slieve Donard, making for a truly memorable day in the heart of the Mournes.

On the summit of Slieve Meelmore stands a small stone shelter, a welcome spot to rest after the steady climb up. From here, the views stretch across the Mournes, with Slieve Bearnagh’s rocky tors dominating the skyline. The shelter gives hikers a place to pause, shielded from the wind, and enjoy the sweeping mountain scenery before continuing along the Mourne Wall.