Overview
Slieve Martin (Irish: Sliabh Mártain) rises to 485 m (1,591 ft) on the southern edge of the Mourne Mountains in County Down. Situated within the wooded slopes of Kilbroney Park, the hill offers one of the most straightforward and rewarding ascents in the range. Because of its gentle prominence and well-maintained paths, it attracts walkers of all fitness levels, families, and dog-owners who want mountain views without a grueling climb. From the summit trig pillar, the panorama sweeps across the glacial fjord of Carlingford Lough, the Cooley Mountains in County Louth, and the rugged spine of the Mournes stretching northward.
History & Folklore
The hill and its surrounding forest sit on the former Kilbroney estate, once owned by the Ross family before passing to the Bowes-Lyon family (ancestors of the Queen Mother). The landscape’s quiet grandeur inspired C. S. Lewis, who spent childhood holidays here and later called the views over the lough his “idea of Narnia.”
Midway up the southern slopes lies the Cloughmore Stone, a 50-tonne granite boulder perched roughly 1,000 feet above Rostrevor. Geologists identify it as a glacial erratic deposited during the last Ice Age, but local tradition tells a different story. Legend claims the giant Finn McCool hurled the stone across Carlingford Lough during a dispute, burying a local frost giant beneath it. Visitors still follow the old custom of walking around the boulder seven times for good luck, pausing at the nearby viewpoint locals call Kodak Corner.
Trail Options & Routes
Three car parks provide access to the hill, each offering a different approach:
- Upper car park – The most popular and direct route. Park here and follow the sign for Cloughmore. The path climbs steeply through mixed woodland on a stony zig-zag trail before opening onto a grassy slope. The final 10-minute climb to the summit is short but steep. Round-trip distance is roughly 3 km, taking about 1.5 hours for most walkers.
- Cloughmore car park – Located higher up the forest drive, this smaller lot sits beside the Big Stone. A detailed notice board marks out the Fiddlers Green and Oakwood trails, which offer a slightly longer, quieter approach through ancient oakwood before joining the main ascent.
- Lower car park – At the park entrance, this lot is best if you need the café, public toilets, or want to combine your hike with the Fairy Glen walk. Expect a longer approach through the forest, adding roughly 45 minutes to the round trip.
For experienced hillwalkers, Slieve Martin forms the central peak of the Southern Mournes Trio (Slieve Martin, Slievemeen, and Crenville), a 12 km circular route that demands solid navigation skills due to boggy terrain and faint paths on Crenville.
What to See & Do
- Cloughmore Stone & Kodak Corner – A short detour from the main trail leads to the boulder. The surrounding clearing offers a natural belvedere with uninterrupted views of the lough and County Louth’s high point, Slieve Foye. It’s a favourite spot for picnics and photography.
- The Narnia Trail – This half-mile family loop winds through the lower woodland, featuring carved sculptures, a lamppost, the Beavers’ house, and Aslan’s table. The uneven, root-crossed ground makes it unsuitable for pushchairs, but it’s ideal for children and anyone who wants to step into Lewis’s literary world.
- Summit Trig Pillar & Cairn – After the final steep push, a grassy mound leads to the survey pillar and a modest stone cairn. A bench sits nearby, perfect for resting while taking in the sweep from Warrenpoint to the Irish Sea. On clear days, the peaks of Slieve Donard and Binnian stand out sharply against the horizon.
- Wildlife & Woodlands – The mixed oak-conifer habitat supports red squirrels, jays, woodpeckers, and occasional deer. Spring brings carpets of bluebells and wild garlic to the forest floor, while autumn turns the heather and gorse to gold.
- Nearby Heritage – A short walk from the lower car park reaches the Ross Monument, a 19th-century obelisk commemorating the estate’s former owners. Nearby stands the ruins of an early church housing the 900-AD bell of St Brónach, which locals say sometimes rings on its own during stormy nights.
Mountain Biking
Kilbroney Forest is a recognised national trail centre and a premier destination for mountain bikers in Ireland. The network includes a 27 km red-grade trail and a 19 km black-grade trail, both passing close to the Slieve Martin slopes. The locally famous “Slieve Martin Slaughter” challenge involves four looped routes (Green, Blue, Yellow, Red) that combine steep forest climbs, open moorland sections, and technical descents. Bike Mourne operates an uplift service from the lower car park, and the trailhead provides a café, free parking, and basic service facilities. Downhill races are hosted here annually, drawing riders from across the island.
Practical Information
- Parking – Both the upper and lower car parks are free and open year-round. The lower car park includes a café, public toilets, and play areas. The upper car park has picnic tables and barbecue spots but no toilet facilities.
- Facilities – No shops or toilets at the summit. The Kilbroney visitor centre and café at the lower car park are open seasonally (typically 9 am–5 pm in winter, extending to 9 pm in summer).
- Dog Policy – Dogs are welcome off-lead. Keep them on marked paths to protect ground-nesting birds and wildlife, especially in spring.
- Best Time to Visit – Clear days offer the best panoramic views. Spring is ideal for bluebells and active wildlife, while autumn provides dramatic lighting and fewer crowds. Winter visits bring crisp air and snow-capped peaks, but paths can become icy.
- Safety – The zig-zag section is stony and steep; sturdy footwear is essential. Mountain bikers use the upper trails, so stay alert and keep to the walker’s path. Weather in the Mournes changes quickly, so check forecasts before heading out.
Getting There
- By Car – Follow the A2 coastal road from Belfast or Newry to Rostrevor. The lower car park is signposted from the Shore Road; continue along the narrow, one-way forest drive to reach the upper car park.
- Public Transport – Ulsterbus route 39 runs regularly from Newry and Belfast to Rostrevor. From the village bus stop, follow the signed footpath to the park entrance (roughly a 20-minute walk).
- Cycling – The Rostrevor to Carlingford Greenway provides a traffic-free route along the lough, allowing cyclists to combine a scenic ride with a hike.
Slieve Martin rewards visitors with a manageable climb, striking geology, and reliable coastal views. Arrive early in summer to secure parking at the upper lot, and bring a waterproof layer regardless of the season – the mountain weather shifts as quickly as the light over the lough.