Slieve Donard

Walk Highlights

Location:

Newcastle, NI

Postcode:

BT33 0HL

Parking:

The main and recommended car park for climbing Slieve Donard in County Down is Donard Park, located in the seaside town of Newcastle. This is a large public car park (parking charges usually apply) with good facilities including toilets and often a cafe nearby. It provides direct access to the start of the main path up the Glen River. Donard Park can get very busy, especially on weekends, bank holidays, and during good weather, as it's the primary starting point for this extremely popular County Down mountain. Arrive early to secure a parking space.

Distance:

6.00 miles

Time:

6.00 hours

Difficulty:

Challenging

Terrain:

The terrain for the Slieve Donard walk in County Down is very challenging and strenuous. Lower sections through Donard Forest are on good, albeit often steep, paths. Higher up, once out of the forest, paths become increasingly steep, rocky, uneven, and can be very boggy and eroded in places, particularly on the ascent to the Saddle and the final push to the summit. The summit plateau is a broad, stony area. The mountain is very exposed to rapidly changing and often severe weather conditions (wind, rain, low cloud). Strong, sturdy, waterproof mountain boots are absolutely essential, as are full waterproofs, extra layers, a map, compass/GPS, and emergency supplies. This County Down mountain is a serious undertaking.

Facilities:

Toilets, Cafe

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