We had very high expectations for this lovely house,they weren't met --they were exceeded. Everything was great from the warm welcome of owners Sandra and Ray,the very welcome basket of goodies,the gorgeous house itself,we were sure we were going to really enjoy ourselves and we did. Everything you could want was already there for you,the house is very spacious ,the seating so comfy for sitting looking out at the Mourne mountains on one side and the birds,so many different types, our favourites were the herons and the egrets,on the other side. We watched them from all the different places in the house using the binoculars provided. Our party of 5 had 2 grandparents,2 parents and a 15 year old and we all had a good time. We had so much space and yet we were together. I have to mention the amazing night sky, it's so dark outside that we saw so many stars our granddaughter who lives in a city, couldn't believe how many she could see. Thank you Sandra and Ray for sharing your lovely home with us, we can't wait to come back again,hopefully very soon. We didn't want to leave

Our requirements were demanding - a cottage that could comfortably accommodate four generations of the family aged from 3 months to 94 years, but also suitable for putting on a meal for 11 family members. Mourne Retreat proved ideal; as near perfection as it was reasonable to expect. It's an exceptionally well-appointed house furnished to a high standard. Hosts Sandra and Ray went out of their way to cater for all our needs, to the extent of providing senior members of their family to share reminiscences with our 94-year old! The house is easily accessible from Belfast yet sufficiently out of the way to provide a bit of peace; 'Retreat' is an apt description. There are gentle walks literally from the front door, a glorious beach is a stroll away and it's right on the edge of a Nature Reserve. For the more energetic, mountain walks in the Mournes start within a few minutes drive. Our legs are still feeling the effects of our yomp to the top of Slieve Donard, Northern Ireland's highest peak. For the less ambitious, the view from the armchairs in the conservatory is a real cracker. Sandra and Ray also laid on perfect summer weather, but I gather this is not a standard feature.

Our family of four (2 adults & 2 kids aged 15 & 9) stayed at Mourne Retreat for 4 nights over St Patrick's weekend and had a lovely relaxing break. Sandra the owner was great to deal with throughout the booking process and she and Ray her husband made us feel very welcome on arrival. They also kindly supplied a welcome basket of goodies which was a nice touch. The bungalow was over and above what we had expected. The photos do not do it justice. The house has a bright and airy feeling, with a high spec modern open-plan interior. The log burning stove was a big hit I must say. Spotlessly clean with everything provided that you could possibly need. The x-box/wifi/playroom were great addition for the kids (youngest would have spent all day in the house if allowed!). The bungalow's location was stunning, situated within Murlough Nature Reserve, with the estuary right in front of house. Fantastic being able to just sit in the conservatory style front porch and watch the birds/wildlife/scenery. There are lovely walks and Murlough Beach within 10 min walk over boardwalks through the dunes. Very quiet and peaceful location to recharge your batteries yet close to Dundrum and Newcastle. We would have no hesitation recommending Mourne Retreat and would love to return in future.

this house is little gem. location fab, house fab, host friendly and welcoming. views are amazing and nothing is forgot about in this house. finished to a high standard and completly spotless. will be back time and time again. thankyou for a fabulous stay Sandra and Ray.

We have had a fabulous weekend with a group of friends. The house has everything we needed and equipped to a very high standard. Beautiful walks from the doorstep as well as into the Mournes. We have seen seals, herons, egrets and cormorants. We shall definitely return! Thanks so much to Sandra and Ray.

We came to this area for a family wedding at the Slieve Donard Hotel in Newcastle and wanted to stay for a few days with our extended family.We were delighted to find this property to rent. It really proved to be a very special find.
The situation is absolutely stunning. From the living room and front conservatory type porch as well as the front two bedrooms you can watch all the birds on the inlet in front of the house in addition to the Mourne mountains in the background. It is peaceful and yet close to Newcastle and Dundrum. The gorgeous Dundrum bay is close by and can be accessed along a delightful board walk close to the house.
The house is a recently modernised ,lovely comfortable bungalow with a huge open plan living, dining room kitchen. It has every convenience,is extremely clean with everything practically brand new. Sandra made sure we had everything we needed for our little grandson including a cot and a high chair. We loved this property and would be absolutely delighted to stay again in the future.