Slieve Donard – First Summit of the Crown of Europe
It was an early start—catching a 7 AM flight from London, grabbing a rental car in Belfast, and making my way to Newcastle—but the adventure ahead was worth every moment of lost sleep.
Today’s mission: climbing Slieve Donard, the highest peak in Northern Ireland, and my first mountain in the ambitious Crown of Europe project.
The Journey to Newcastle
The drive to Newcastle offered stunning glimpses of Northern Ireland’s lush countryside, setting the perfect mood for the climb ahead. After arriving in town, I quickly packed my gear and headed for the trail.
The Hike
The trail to Slieve Donard was both beautiful and invigorating—starting in dense woodland, following the Glen River, then rising steadily into open moorland and rockier terrain.
The weather was remarkably clear, offering panoramic views all around. But reaching the summit brought a reminder that the mountains always demand respect—strong, gusty winds hit hard at the top!
At the Summit
Despite the wind, standing on the highest point in Northern Ireland felt surreal. Views stretched across the Mourne Mountains and out to the Irish Sea. It truly felt like being at the edge of the world.
Although the hike is relatively short and easy, it’s absolutely worthwhile. The sense of accomplishment and the breathtaking landscape make it one of those climbs you’ll always remember.
Tracking the Climb
I’ve added some photos from the hike and shared my Strava route for those interested in the stats and elevation gain. It’s a simple but powerful climb—perfect for both beginners and seasoned hikers preparing for bigger goals.
Helpful Links for Planning Your Slieve Donard Hike
- 🔗 Slieve Donard via Glen River – WalkNI
A detailed walking guide including trail info, parking tips, and summit views. - 🔗 Slieve Donard Hiking Guide – The Irish Road Trip
Covers distance, difficulty, estimated duration, and FAQs about the route. - 🔗 Complete Hiking Overview – Outsider.ie
A great all-rounder guide explaining terrain, ascent, and what to expect. - 🌦️ Mountain Weather Forecast – Mountain-Forecast.com
Accurate 6-day forecast specifically for the summit at 850m elevation. - 🌤️ Met Office Mourne Mountains Forecast
Hour-by-hour weather updates including wind and visibility.
Final Thoughts
This climb was the perfect way to kick off the Crown of Europe journey. Slieve Donard may not be the tallest or most technical mountain in Europe—but it’s a meaningful beginning. And there’s so much more to come.