Donard Forest lies at the foot of the Mourne Mountains and affords some spectacular views of County Down, including Newcastle, Dundrum Bay, St John's Point and Slieve Croob.
The area to the north east of the forest has been designated as a Heritage Stand. It was planted in 1927 and consists of Scots and Corsican pine, with herbaceous plants and woody shrubs hidden below the tree canopy. This area is the habitat for the Holly Blue butterfly and a wide range of bird species. The Glen River Bridge provides a picturesque viewpoint for the many cascades and waterfalls. Nearby are some ornamental trees including monkey puzzle and giant redwood.