Blue Lough, Mourne Mountains

Grade: Moderate/Challenging, but we'll take our time

This wonderful walk can be a little steep in places but it's one of the less arduous walks in the Mournes. Distance is roughly 5 miles.

Setting off on our walk, we veer off right towards Annalong Wood and head up to the Blue Lough. From there we'll ascend to the saddle between Slieve Binnian and Slieve Lamagan for some spectacular views over Ben Crom reservoir and the heart of the Mournes.

This is a good place to take a break for lunch. We will stop at the Blue Lough on the way back down, give you a chance to paddle your toes in the beautiful lake! Some may wish to continue to the summit of Slieve Binnian (challenging) and back to Carrick Little that way.

As usual we'll wait for everyone and not rush things. Wear sturdy walking boots with good grip and ankle support. Poles recommended if you use them. As always in the mountains, bring a fleece and/or rainjacket just in case. Bring a packed lunch and plenty to drink.

None of the Carrick Little Car Parks are very big and it's a popular place so best to carshare as much as possible. In order as you go along the Oldtown Road, they are the original Carrick Little Car Park (free, max 15 cars, fills up early), Carrick Little Walkers Car Park (this is the biggest one, ~£3 charge) and lastly Carrick Little Top Car Park (smaller, ~£3 charge). We'll meet at the Top Car Park as that's where the loos are.

Places to carpool are Cairnshill Park and Ride (the 7a and 515/520 buses take you here) or Donard Car Park in Newcastle (520 bus), please post a note if you need a lift

Directions below to Carrick Little carpark:
Coming from Newcastle, take the A2 to Kilkeel past the harbour. About 6 miles from Newcastle Harbour there is a right turn past a petrol station - this is Quarter Road (with a sign post to Silent Valley) - take this right turning into Quarter Road. Keep going for approx just under two and a half miles on the narrow road over a single lane bridge and then you will see Carrick Little carpark on the right at a T- junction (which comes in from the left).

This walk costs £1 for members and £6 for guests and non-members.

Bring some spending money in case we go mad and end up in Carrick Little coffee shop or one in Newcastle.

Post up if you need a lift and someone may oblige if they're coming from your end of town. Please give the drivers a contribution towards fuel costs and drivers please take it so it's fair to all.

This is an all-day event so don't expect to be back in Belfast before 6pm.

See you there folks!
Maria 07583 042962