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Blue Lough

Walk

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Mountain, Lakeside

Walking

Spring to Autumn

Photo: Eric Jones via Geograph.org.uk

Blue Lough is a small mountain lake high in the Mourne Mountains of County Down, cupped among granite slabs and tors below the peak of Slieve Binnian. It sits deep in the range, in the wild upper reaches of the Annalong valley, its water dark and clear against the pale rock and heather. The setting ...

10

Parking nearby

3

Food Spots nearby

3

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

10 overnight parking

The Mourne Lodge – Atticall, The Galley Inn – Annalong, The Harbour Inn – Newcastle

Oakwood Glamping, Gorse Hill Glamping, Thistle Thatch Cottage

Nearest Hidden Gem 1

Nearest Hidden Gem 2

Nearest Hidden Gem 3

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is Blue Lough?
Gazing across County Down reveals this pool tucked within the lower slopes of the historic Mourne range. Hikers find the water basin while following a gentle upland trail through the glacial trough.

What type of place is Blue Lough?
Blue Lough is a compact mountain lake and walking trail in the Mourne Mountains of County Down.

When is the best time to visit Blue Lough?
Spring to Autumn brings the most pleasant conditions for walking along the gravel track. Brisk hill air feels wonderful during these months, though changing weather systems require a warm jumper even in summer.

What can you do at Blue Lough?
Walking along the well-defined paths offers a gentle introduction to the mountains without requiring dangerous, vertical scrambles. Hikers can enjoy the immense mountain silence, take in views of the heather-clad slopes, and watch the grey light ripple across the dark water.

How long should I spend at Blue Lough?
Allocating roughly three hours allows you to complete the five-mile round trip comfortably. A longer stay suits anyone wanting to pause by the water, enjoy a quiet picnic, or connect to longer trails around the peaks.

Where do I park at Blue Lough?
Drivers can utilise the 10 available spaces nearby, which provide 10 overnight parking spots. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near Blue Lough?
The Mourne Lodge - Atticall, The Galley Inn - Annalong, and The Harbour Inn - Newcastle provide three local choices to grab a bite to eat. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I stay near Blue Lough?
Oakwood Glamping, Gorse Hill Glamping, and Thistle Thatch Cottage offer three accommodation options close to the trail. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

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Last Updated:

02 July 2026

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