The Mournes Signature Project

Designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1966, the Mourne Mountains is one of  the most picturesque areas in Ireland.

Rising dramatically from the sea, the 12 summits of this range are all above 600 metres and include Slieve Donard, Northern Ireland's highest mountain.  Identified in NITB’s Strategic Framework for Action 2004-2007 as a Signature Project, the Mourne area is currently under consideration by the Minister of the Environment to be the designated location of Northern Ireland's first National Park.  Irrespective of National Park Status NITB continues to work with the Mourne Heritage Trust to improve this area, and the development of a Mourne Coastal Route has been proposed. 

Under the Programme for Government (PfG) the Mournes Signature Project has received £4million.  NITB continues to work with the Mourne Heritage Trust, Local Councils and Private Sector organisations in recognizing and developing key projects along the proposed Mourne Coastal Route which it feels will further enhance the visitor experience.  A considerable amount of projects have been identified for financial assistance and it is expected that the Mourne Coastal route will be completed by 2011.  Further information on progress can be found at www.nitb.com. 

See : Mournes National Working Party