Overview
The Cooley Mountains stretch from Carlingford Bay to the County Down border, forming a dramatic backdrop to the Cooley Peninsula. At the centre of the range stands Slieve Foy (Sliabh Feá), the highest peak at 589 m, offering 360° panoramas over Carlingford Lough, the Mourne Mountains, the Irish Sea and, on clear days, the Isle of Man. The lower slopes are cloaked in the Coillte‑managed Slieve Foye Woods, a mixed‑species forest with picnic facilities and a series of well‑signposted walking routes.
History & Legend
The mountains have long been a cultural landmark. The epic Táin Bó Cúailnge (Cattle Raid of Cooley) is set in this landscape, and the name “Cooley” derives from the Irish Cúile – “nook” or “corner”. Local folklore paints Slieve Foy as the “mountain of the giant”, its profile said to resemble the sleeping Finn McCool. Legend tells of Finn hurling a massive boulder across Carlingford Lough – the stone that became the famous Cloughmore on Slieve Martin. The pass known as Barnavave (“Maeve’s Gap”) is linked to Queen Medb’s army in the same saga.
In the mid‑20th century the forest on Slieve Foy’s lower slopes was planted as part of a national re‑forestation programme; today Coillte’s stewardship ensures sustainable recreation and wildlife protection. In 2009 the area gained EU Habitats Directive protection, whimsically described as a “Designated Area of Protection for Flora, Fauna, Wild Animals and Little People”.
What to See & Do
Walking & Hiking
- Táin Way (4 km) – a national long‑distance route that cuts through the woods and links the colour‑coded loops.
- Commons Loop (3 km, green) – gentle woodland stroll.
- Slieve Foye Loop (8 km, blue) – climbs to the summit for unrivalled views of Carlingford Lough and the Mournes; also listed as a 9 km circuit by Discover Ireland, taking about 2½ hours.
- Barnavave Loop (12.5 km, red) – a longer, more rugged circuit that traverses higher terrain and the historic pass associated with Queen Medb.
- Guided Gabbro Ridge Experience – offered by Mountain Ways Ireland, this guided hike follows the distinctive gabbro ridge, includes the optional “Devil’s Ladder” scramble, and finishes with refreshments in Carlingford.
Scenic Drive
The R173 road from Carlingford to Omeath hugs the coastline, providing numerous pull‑outs for photographing sea cliffs, the mountain’s silhouette and distant peaks.
Picnic & Relaxation
Two free car parks at the forest entrance provide picnic tables and ample space for families to relax after a walk.
Geology, Flora & Fauna
Slieve Foy’s core is ancient gabbro, a dark igneous rock that supports specialised lichens and alpine‑type plants. The protected status safeguards red‑listed species such as the Irish hare and peregrine falcon, which are occasionally sighted soaring above the summit.
Practical Information
- Access: The forest entrance is reachable via the R173. Parking is free; both car parks are equipped with picnic facilities.
- Trail Markings: Loops are colour‑coded (green, blue, red) and sign‑posted from the Táin Way.
- Difficulty: Walks range from easy (Commons Loop) to strenuous (Barnavave Loop and guided ridge hike). Proper footwear and weather‑appropriate clothing are advised.
- Facilities: No permanent café on the mountain, but the nearby medieval village of Carlingford offers restaurants and shops.
- Seasonality: The area is accessible year‑round, though higher sections can be boggy after rain and visibility may be reduced in winter.
- Safety: Mobile signal can be patchy on the summit; hikers should carry a map, compass or GPS and inform someone of their route.
- Website: The Coillte page listed previously is currently unreachable; visitors should check for an updated official site before planning a visit.
Enjoy the blend of myth, natural beauty and outdoor adventure that makes the Cooley Mountains and Slieve Foy a memorable destination in Ireland.