Overview
The Mourne Coastal Route is a 90 km ribbon of road that hugs the rugged coastline of County Down, weaving between the Atlantic‑blue waters of Strangford Lough and the towering Mourne Mountains.
History & Background
While the road itself is a modern link between coastal settlements, the landscape is steeped in centuries of history. The National Trust’s Castleward Estate, once a medieval stronghold, gained recent fame as the Game of Thrones filming location for Winterfell. The infamous Bloody Bridge near Newcastle recalls 17th‑century skirmishes, and the area’s smuggling past is still whispered about in local folklore. The Mourne Mountains, designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and a UNESCO Global Geopark, have inspired writers from C. S. Lewis to contemporary artists, cementing the route’s cultural significance.
What to See & Do
| Highlight | Description |
|---|---|
| Castleward National Trust Estate | Walk the gardens and explore the historic house that doubled as Winterfell in Game of Thrones. |
| Strangford Village | Nestled on the Narrows of Strangford Lough, this fishing village offers cafés, craft shops and a lively harbour. |
| St John’s Point Lighthouse | The iconic “Bumble‑Bee” lighthouse marks the entrance to the lough and provides panoramic sea views. |
| Tyrella Blue Flag Beach | Golden sands backed by dunes – perfect for a quick dip or a beachside picnic. |
| Murlough National Nature Reserve | Europe’s largest sand‑dune reserve, with boardwalks that let you explore fragile habitats. |
| Newcastle | A bustling seaside town with on‑site parking, cafés, and easy access to Tollymore Forest Park. |
| Tollymore Forest Park | NI’s first forest park, featuring ancient woodlands, stone bridges and the dramatic Bloody Bridge. |
| Slieve Donard | The highest peak in Northern Ireland rises straight from the sea; the summit can be seen from many points along the route. |
| Silent Valley Mountain Park | Home to the Silent Valley Reservoir and the historic Mourne Wall that encircles the catchment. |
| Kilkeel | A working fishing port where you can watch the fleet return and sample fresh seafood. |
| Made in Mourne | Artisan workshops showcasing local crafts, from woolens to jewellery. |
| Cranfield Beach & Carlingford Lough | A Blue Flag beach with an optional ferry crossing to the historic town of Carlingford. |
For drivers, the self‑driving version follows the A2 through Annalong, Kilkeel, Warrenpoint and on to Newry before looping back via Hilltown. Each segment is sign‑posted, and the route offers ample car parking at villages and attractions.
Practical Information
The e‑bike experience is run by Bike Mourne and includes a fully charged CUBE electric bike, helmet, lock, tool kit, spare tube, pump and a charge cable for hires longer than six hours. A detailed route map with local tips is supplied, and a support line is available from 09:00‑17:00 (see table). Bookings must be made online in advance, especially during the summer months.
Opening hours (e‑bike service)
| Service | Hours |
|---|---|
| Bike Mourne hire desk | 09:00 – 17:00 |
Pricing
| Option | Starting price |
|---|---|
| Two‑day e‑bike tour (Strangford → Newcastle → Rostrevor) | £84.00 |
| Single‑day hire | Varies by bike model |
Delivery, collection and luggage shuttle services can be arranged on request. A damage waiver is included, covering accidental bike damage (excluding loss of accessories). Payments are accepted in euros and all major credit/debit cards.
Parking is available on‑site at most villages, including free car parking in Newcastle and at the A2 lay‑bys near Annalong and Kilkeel. The route is fully sign‑posted, and the official website provides downloadable maps and a list of “can’t‑miss” attractions.
Contact & Booking
- Phone: +44 (0) 33 0137 4046
- Website: https://discovernorthernireland.com/listing/mourne-coastal-route-by-e-bike-%E2%80%93-bike-mourne/75208101/
Whether you prefer the silent glide of an electric bike, the freedom of a self‑drive adventure, or a series of short walks, the Mourne Coastal Route delivers a seamless blend of coastal beauty, mountain drama and cultural heritage.
Coordinates: 54.26063, -5.95177