I did a horseshoe walk in the Mournes last week, but wasn't sure at first under which mountain I would write about my experience. finally decided on Slieve Bearnagh for the simple reason that it was a tough nut to crack. I started at 9.00 after parking at the Crocknafeola Wood, and 'entered' into Mournes area at point J276226 F up Slieve Muck. It was a hard start, especially with 15kg on your back (I had the bright idea to camp out one night). After that onto Carr Mountain, via Slieve Loughshannagh and Slieve Meelbeg to Slieve Meelmore following the wall. after a steep descent, you guessed it........ Slieve Bearnagh. I thought my legs were going to turn to jelly. Could not climb the Tor as at this stage there was blowing a galeforce wind and I was on my own. Had a bit of lunch on the other side of this mountain. Unfortunately the weather started to deteriorate at this point, sleet and hail, interspersed with some rain at galeforce speed (the word sand blasting sprung to mind). After that simply following the wall, Slievenaglogh, SlieveCorragh, Slieve Commedagh, and finally Slieve Donard. After descending I had wanted to climb Chimney Rock Mountain, but it was already 17.15. I would have to do my final descent in the dark, so decided against that. I followed the wall for another bit untill point J353262 G and descended just north-west of Rocky Mountain, keeping the Hares Castle (the hares were not home) to the right. Do not....I repeat, do not use this route. It was a total disaster. Very overgrown uneaven and bouldery (hidden) flank of this mountain. I must have fallen over about a dozen times (no joke). Finally reached the Annalong Valley at 18.30. In time to pitch my tent before dark at point J342243 H at the weir and cook some pasta out of a bag (Which tasted like honey at this stage). Next day great weather, I looked up at Slieve Binnian but my legs were protesting in such a way that I had to leave that for another holiday. Ended up with a 13km road walk instead. I stayed in Newcastle in the Avoca Hotel which has nice sea front rooms. If you decide to do the Mournes, Have dinner in Villa Vinci, you'll be well looked afgter by Bennie, the owner, and the food is fantastic, just what you need after a long walk. Linkback: https://mountainviews.ie/summit/83/comment/3408/