The best walks and hikes around Drumaran
4.1
(28)
389
hikers
16
hikes
Hiking around Drumaran offers access to diverse landscapes within County Down, Northern Ireland. The region features the rugged granite peaks of the Mourne Mountains, including Slieve Donard, and the panoramic vistas from Slieve Croob in the Dromara Hills. Coastal paths along Dundrum Bay provide views of the Irish Sea, while Tollymore and Drumkeeragh Forest Parks offer woodland trails. This varied terrain provides a range of hiking experiences from challenging mountain ascents to peaceful forest walks.
Best hiking trails around Drumaran
…Last updated: June 27, 2026
5.0
(1)
5
hikers
21.2km
06:17
610m
610m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.5
(2)
34
hikers
6.08km
01:45
140m
140m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.5
(2)
29
hikers
8.68km
02:22
130m
130m
Hike the moderate 5.4-mile Florence Court Red Trail, gaining 413 feet in elevation with panoramic Fermanagh views and glimpses of Florence C
18
hikers
3.47km
00:59
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
3
hikers
10.1km
02:54
250m
250m
Hike the moderate 6.3-mile Cavan Way through Cavan Burren Park, exploring ancient sites and enjoying views of Lough MacNean.
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Tips from the Community
The Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail, affectionately known as the "Stairway to Heaven," offers a challenging yet rewarding hike through one of Northern Ireland's most stunning landscapes. Spanning approximately 11 km round-trip, the trail meanders through expansive blanket bogs before culminating in a steep ascent of 450 wooden steps to a viewing platform atop Cuilcagh Mountain. Hikers are treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding lowlands, including glimpses of counties Cavan, Leitrim, and Donegal on clear days. While the boardwalk was constructed to protect the delicate bog ecosystem, it has also made the trail more accessible, attracting over 60,000 visitors annually.
3
0
Great walk, very touristy but it's worth the detour! Be careful of the crowds (on weekends and in summer I dare not imagine!). However, BE CAREFUL, the summit is not accessible, you have to pass the protective barriers which allow the wild nature to be preserved from our steps and from this crowd of people. If we, the Komoot community, start to do this all the tourists will allow themselves and the landscape will never be so beautiful again! (Ps: no need to climb to the top to already see enough in the eyes!)
0
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"continual slur on Irish caving" It's actually only a few hundred metres is accessible and it's total length is thought to be 2km. No where near the longest cave in Ireland. Consider a trip in only if well equipped with a good light and helmet. Alternatively/also consider visiting McKenzies back lounge just down the road. A much drier watering hole. ;)
1
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Tullygobban Tomb is over 4000 years old and is aligned to face the sunset on the shortest day of the year, the Winter Solstice. Look south towards the cairn atop Cullcagh Mountain and you will see that the summit, this tomb, the Calf House Tomb and an erratic boulder all lie up.
1
0
Stunning limestone caves which you can explore on a guided tour. Well worth a visit. There are 150 steps down to the caves so if you are wearing cleats please be aware, or change into a pair of trainers before you descend down into the natural wonder. There is also a cafe on site. For further details please see https://marblearchcaves.co.uk/
0
0
Very long and strenuous hike if you want to go up the mountain. Warm clothing is a must. As soon as you leave the low vegetation, the wind gets really unpleasant and cold...
2
0
Cuilcagh Mountain sits right on the border between Ireland and Northern Ireland. From the top, you can enjoy magnificent views across the rolling hills of Ireland in all directions.
1
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Enjoy a stroll through this gorgeous landscape belonging to the Belmore Uplands. The area is known for it's fascinating wildlife, the most intriguing being the Irish Hare. You'll know if you've spotted a hare over a rabbit because of their black-tipped ears and long black legs.
2
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Drumaran?
Drumaran offers a diverse network of over 15 hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls to challenging mountain ascents. You'll find options for various fitness levels, including 9 easy, 6 moderate, and 1 difficult route.
Are there any easy or family-friendly hiking options near Drumaran?
Yes, Drumaran is an excellent base for family-friendly hikes. Many of the 9 easy routes are suitable for all ages. For example, the Belmore Forest loop via Pollnagollum Cave offers a gentle 3.8-mile (6.1 km) walk through woodlands, perfect for a relaxed outing. Tollymore Forest Park also features magical moderate loops through ancient woodland, past waterfalls, and gothic stone bridges, which can be adapted for families.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see on hikes around Drumaran?
The region around Drumaran boasts a striking variety of terrain. You can explore the rugged granite peaks of the Mourne Mountains, enjoy panoramic vistas from Slieve Croob in the Dromara Hills, or take serene coastal strolls along Dundrum Bay. Additionally, enchanting woodlands like Tollymore and Drumkeeragh Forest Parks offer peaceful treks through lush forests.
Are there any trails with waterfalls or interesting natural features?
Yes, the area offers several trails with beautiful natural features. The Belmore Forest loop via Pollnagollum Cave leads to the impressive Pollnagollum Cave. You can also find the Cladagh Glen Waterfall, which is accessible via the Marble Arch Caves via Cladagh River trail. Tollymore Forest Park is also renowned for its numerous waterfalls and intricate stone bridges.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Drumaran?
The komoot community highly rates the hiking experience around Drumaran, with an average score of 3.98 stars from over 26 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, from challenging mountain routes to peaceful forest walks, and the stunning panoramic views from peaks like Slieve Donard and Slieve Croob.
Are there any circular hiking routes available?
Yes, there are several circular routes to enjoy. For instance, the Belmore Forest loop via Pollnagollum Cave is a great option for an easy circular walk. Many trails within Tollymore Forest Park are also designed as loops, allowing you to return to your starting point without retracing your steps.
Can I find trails with good viewpoints for scenic photography?
Absolutely. The region is rich in panoramic viewpoints. Slieve Croob, for example, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, including the Mourne Mountains. Higher elevations in the Mournes, such as Slieve Donard, provide expansive vistas stretching across County Down to the Irish Sea, and even as far as the Isle of Man on clear days. Hen Mountain is also known for its excellent vantage points for sunrise and sunset.
Are there any historical or cultural landmarks to explore along the trails?
Yes, the area is dotted with interesting landmarks. The summit of Slieve Croob features a distinctive cairn, believed to be a Bronze Age burial ground. You can also visit the Giant's Grave & Giant's Cave, or the Cavan Burren Park Megalithic Stones. The Mourne Wall, a 35 km dry-stone wall traversing 15 peaks, is another significant man-made feature often used as a hiking waypoint.
Is there parking available at the trailheads?
Many popular hiking areas around Drumaran offer dedicated parking. For instance, you can find parking at the Cuilcagh Mountain Park Car Park, which serves the challenging Cuilcagh Mountain Park loop. Forest parks like Tollymore also provide visitor parking facilities.
What is the best time of year for hiking around Drumaran?
The region offers great hiking opportunities throughout the year, but spring and autumn are particularly popular due to milder temperatures and vibrant scenery. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while autumn showcases stunning foliage. Summer is ideal for longer days and higher mountain treks, though it can be busier. Winter hikes are possible, especially on lower-level trails, but require appropriate gear for potentially colder and wetter conditions.
Are there any trails that are suitable for dog walking?
Many trails in the Drumaran area are dog-friendly, especially those in forest parks and on coastal paths, provided dogs are kept under control. Tollymore Forest Park, for example, is a popular spot for dog walkers. Always check local signage for specific rules regarding dogs, especially in nature reserves or on farmland, to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.
Are there any challenging mountain hikes for experienced trekkers?
Yes, the Mourne Mountains offer challenging routes for experienced hikers. The Cuilcagh Mountain Park loop is a difficult 13.2-mile (21.2 km) trail with significant elevation gain. Other challenging ascents include the Slieve Donard Summit Trail and the Slieve Binnian loop, which offers dramatic granite tors and views over Silent Valley Reservoir.
Can I reach any of the hiking areas by public transport?
While many trailheads are best accessed by car, some areas around Drumaran may be reachable by public transport, particularly to nearby towns like Newcastle or Dundrum. From these towns, local bus services or taxis might connect to specific trail access points or forest parks. It's advisable to check Translink's website for current bus schedules and routes when planning your trip.
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