Spelga Reservoir – A High‑Altitude Reservoir in the Mournes

Overview

Spelga Reservoir lies in the townland of Spelga (Irish: Speilgeach) in the heart of the Mourne Mountains, County Down. Perched at over 1,200 ft (≈ 366 m) above sea level, the man‑made lake holds roughly 2.7 million m³ of water and drains a catchment of 5.423 km². The reservoir impounds the River Bann, which rises on nearby Slieve Muck, and today provides the drinking‑water supply for the Portadown and Banbridge areas.

The site is set in a broad valley known locally as Deers Meadow, surrounded by peaks such as Pigeon Rock, Slievenamiskan and Slievenamuck. From the main car park you can enjoy a peaceful lookout over the glassy surface, with the Mourne range stretching in a 360‑degree panorama. The area is part of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, making it a magnet for photographers, walkers and anyone who appreciates a blend of engineering and wild landscape.

History

The idea of a water‑supply scheme for Belfast dates back to 1894, but the reservoir itself was not built until the post‑war era. Construction ran from 1953 to 1957, a four‑year programme led by the Belfast engineering partnership R Ferguson and S McIlveen. The contract was awarded to John Laing & Sons, a firm that had become a listed construction company in 1953. The total cost was £650,000, a substantial sum for the time.

To create the lake the original B27 road that crossed Deers Meadow was submerged. A new stretch of the B27 was rebuilt above the water, preserving the vital transport link between Hilltown and Kilkeel. Archaeological work before the flood uncovered three groups of booley huts (seasonal transhumant dwellings) and a scatter of flint flakes, indicating human activity on the site from prehistoric times through the 18th century.

When the dam was completed, the reservoir began to fill, and the surrounding landscape was transformed from open meadow to a striking water‑filled basin. In recent dry summers (notably 2018 and 2020) the water level fell enough to expose a portion of the original road and its first bridge over the River Bann, creating a temporary but popular walking route.

What to See & Do

The Magic Hill (Gravity‑Hill Illusion)

A short distance south of the dam lies a “magic hill” – an optical illusion where the surrounding terrain makes a gentle downhill slope appear to be uphill. If you put a car in neutral and release the brake, the vehicle will seem to roll uphill. The effect is purely visual, but it has become a favourite photo‑op for visitors, many of whom liken it to Scotland’s Electric Brae.

Walks and Trails

• Slievenamuck family‑friendly walk – a gentle loop that starts from the main car park, suitable for children and casual walkers.
• Spelga Dam loop – a more demanding circuit that takes you over Slievenamiskan, Cock Mountain, Slieve Muck (where the Mourne Wall runs) and Carn Mountain before returning to the car park. The route offers panoramic views of the reservoir and the surrounding peaks.
• Lakeshore stroll – simply follow the water’s edge for a short, flat walk that showcases the reservoir’s reflective surface and the rugged hills beyond.

Wildlife

Although the reservoir has not been stocked in recent years, it supports wild pike and trout. Anglers occasionally spot the fish, and birdwatchers may see waterfowl feeding on the calm waters.

Nearby Attractions

• Goward Dolmen – a prehistoric megalithic tomb about 0.4 km south of the B8 road.
• Silent Valley Reservoir – another high‑altitude lake a few miles away, offering additional walking routes.
• Castlewellan Forest Park – home to an arboretum and the famous Peace Maze, reachable via the High Mournes Scenic Loop.
• Ben Crom Mountain, Dam and Reservoir – a striking neighbouring dam and peak that provides further high‑level walks and excellent photo opportunities.

Practical Information

Spelga Reservoir is free to visit and open year‑round. The main north‑side car park provides the most facilities:

The south‑side car park is smaller, with fewer amenities, but offers a closer viewpoint of the dam structure and is often quieter during peak times.

Getting There

By car – From Newcastle, follow the A2 south, turn right onto Quarter Road, continue onto the High Mournes Scenic Loop, pass Silent Valley, then turn left onto Kilkeel Road (B27) and travel 0.7 mi to the car park on the left. The drive itself is scenic, passing Fofanny Dam, Tollymore Forest Park and the iconic peaks of Slieve Donard, Slieve Commedagh and Slieve Bearnagh.

From Belfast – Take the M1 south to the Sprucefield exit (J7), continue on the A1 to Newry, then follow signs for Hilltown via the B8, turn right onto Kilkeel Road (B27) and follow the same final stretch.

Public transport – Book the Mourne Shuttle Service in advance; the service provides door‑to‑door transport from Newcastle and surrounding towns directly to Spelga Dam.

Facilities for Families

The site’s picnic area, short family‑friendly walks and the magic‑hill illusion make it an ideal stop for a day out with children. Accessible parking and toilets ensure that visitors with mobility requirements can enjoy the scenery comfortably.

Conclusion

Spelga Reservoir is more than a functional water‑supply installation; it is a high‑altitude landmark where engineering history, natural beauty and a touch of mystery converge. Whether you are tracing the old road exposed by a low water level, testing the gravity‑defying magic hill, or simply soaking in the sweeping Mourne vistas, the reservoir offers a memorable experience that reflects both the past and the present of County Down’s mountainous heart.