Easy hikes and walks around Ballykeel

Starting from Carrick Little Car Park, the hiking path to Slieve Binnian offers a rewarding journey through the heart of the Mourne Mountains. This moderate to challenging loop, approximately 11.2 km in length, follows the Mourne Wall, a historic dry-stone structure built in the early 1900s, guiding hikers toward the summit of Slieve Binnian (747 m). The ascent is steady, with a mix of rocky terrain and scenic views. As you approach the summit, the path becomes more rugged, leading to the iconic South and North Tors. From the summit, panoramic vistas unfold, offering breathtaking views of the Silent Valley and the surrounding peaks.

The trail starts from Carrick Little car park and follows the historic Mourne Wall as it climbs steadily toward the rocky tors crowning the summit. The ascent invites you to pause and admire panoramic views of Silent Valley, Ben Crom Reservoir, and on clear days, even the distant Isle of Man. The final stretch asks a bit more, with a mix of rugged terrain and light scrambling over granite, but the reward is more than worth it. That open summit, with its scattered tors and distant sea shimmering, leaves a lasting impression. Hiking Slieve Binnian is grounding, quietly powerful, a trail that asks for presence and gives back pure mountain clarity.

The Duck Pond feels like a calm secret waiting to be discovered. Recommended by hikers and tucked into a protected area, it’s a gentle spot where water glimmers among reeds and mountains frame the quiet mirror below.

Silent Valley Reservoir, nestled in the Mourne Mountains, is a peaceful retreat surrounded by sweeping granite peaks and heathered slopes. Built in the early 20th century to supply water to Belfast and much of County Down, the reservoir combines striking engineering with natural beauty. Visitors can stroll along well-kept paths, admire the Victorian-style dam and impressive Mourne Wall, or simply enjoy the quiet atmosphere by the lakeshore.

This section of the path is not maintained at all. It’s overgrown with high vegetation, thorny plants, and hidden holes. The terrain is quite challenging and can be dangerous, with boggy patches and rocks concealed in the tall grass. Take care and be cautious when walking here.

A tea room located in the beautiful setting of Silent Valley Mountain Park. The café is open daily all year round, which is convenient, but unfortunately the food quality is very disappointing. The staff are friendly, but I had one of the worst ham and cheese sandwiches of my life: dry bread, bland ham, and cheese that tasted like the lowest supermarket grade. The bread was probably the only halfway decent part of it.

The well-maintained trails take you through impressive scenery, surrounded by the striking peaks of the Mournes. The view of the Mourne Wall, which stretches for 35 kilometers and connects 15 peaks, is particularly impressive. However, some sections can become slippery in wet weather, so caution is advised. A highlight is a visit to Ben Crom Reservoir, which can be reached via an extension of the route. Note that there is a fee to enter the park.

Dating back to the 19th century, this historic port offers an authentic insight into the region's maritime history. The well-maintained paths along the port make for a pleasant ride with views of the Mourne Mountains in the background. However, it can get slippery in wet weather, so care must be taken. A particular highlight is the Annalong Cornmill, a restored watermill that is well worth a visit. Nearby you'll find the Harbour Inn, a cosy eatery known for its fresh seafood. Note, however, that the harbour can dry out at low tide, which changes the view.