Slieve Donard

Suits: Teens

Hike: Challenging and rewarding, hiking up Slieve Donard is a super day out with teenagers (though younger kids will manage it too.) Overlooking The Irish Sea, Northern Ireland’s highest peak stands at 850m, delivering sensational views from the summit. Starting at sea level, the well-defined trail begins with a sharp incline, but levels out over time, weaving through thick forest and crossing bridges over the Glen River. At the higher reaches, where Slieve Donard meets Slieve Commedagh, you’ll spy the Mourne Wall, a wondrous 100-year-old granite structure, which guides weary climbers up the final 300 metres in one continuous slope. The views are worth it: fantastic vistas of the Mourne Mountains, with Lough Neagh, the Wicklow Mountains and even Scotland visible across the sea on a fine day. – JB

Start and Finish at: Donard Park car park.

Level: Moderate.

Length / Time: 9.2km return; allow 4-5 hours.

Pack: Extra layers, rain gear, sunscreen, hiking boots, food and water.