Overview
Slieve Meelmore (687 m / 2,254 ft) sits in the heart of the Mourne Mountains, forming a rugged shoulder between Slieve Meelbeg to the south and Slieve Bearnagh to the east. East of the village of Hilltown, it is widely regarded as one of the most atmospheric peaks in the range. The mountain is defined by its exposed granite tors, a small stone summit shelter, and the iconic Mourne Wall, which traverses the ridge and serves as a reliable navigational aid. Classified as a Marilyn and featured on both the Arderin and Vandeleur-Lynam lists, Slieve Meelmore attracts walkers who appreciate sustained climbs, open mountain terrain, and unobstructed panoramic views.
Name & History
The Irish name Sliabh Míol Mór translates to “great mountain of the ants”, though some sources link it to Méal Mór (“great bald hill”), a fitting description for its treeless, wind-swept summit. The mountain’s prominence in local walking culture was cemented in 1992 when it was included as the seventh peak in the annual Mourne Sevens challenge. For over a decade, participants climbed it based on an old map that listed a spot height of 704 m. It wasn’t until 2004 that surveyors confirmed the true elevation sits just below the 700 m threshold, prompting an official correction. Despite the demotion, it remains a staple of serious hillwalking itineraries.
The Mourne Wall itself dates to the early 20th century. Built between 1904 and 1922, the 35-km dry-stone structure was erected to protect the catchment area of the Silent Valley Reservoir, which supplies drinking water to Belfast. Today, the wall functions as both a historical landmark and a practical handrail along the steeper, more exposed sections of the ascent.
Walking Routes to the Summit
Slieve Meelmore offers several access points, each catering to different fitness levels and route preferences. All approaches involve rugged paths, uneven ground, and sustained climbing.
| Route | Start Point | Distance | Approx. Time | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bearnagh & Meelmore Loop | Trassey Car Park | 6 mi (≈9 km) | 3–4 hrs | Follows the Mourne Wall, includes Hare’s Gap, twin summit views |
| Meelmore & Meelbeg Circuit | Ott Car Park | 11 km | 3.5–4 hrs | Covers two adjacent peaks, longer but rewarding ridge traverse |
| Trassey Track Ascent | Trassey Car Park | 5 km (one-way) | 2–3 hrs | Direct climb via established track, joins the wall at the upper col |
| Ott Circular | Ott Car Park | 7 km | 2.5–3 hrs | Shorter loop via the Ulster Way, passes Fofanny Dam |
Trassey Track Approach
From the Trassey Car Park (grid reference J312 314), the route begins on a well-defined track that climbs gently beside Clonachullion Wood. After passing through kissing gates, the path steepens and winds under Spellack’s crags before reaching the head of the valley. At the fork, keep left to reach Hare’s Gap, where the Mourne Wall bisects the col. From here, follow the wall right to gain the summit. The descent typically follows the wall down to the intersection, then takes the right-hand branch into the valley until it meets a field boundary wall. Turn right to rejoin the Trassey Track.
Ott Car Park Circuit
Starting at the Ott Car Park, walkers cross a stile and follow a stone track toward the col between Slieve Loughshannagh and Carn Mountain. Upon meeting the Mourne Wall, turn left and follow it up through Slieve Meelbeg before tackling the final steady climb to Slieve Meelmore. The return route drops back to the wall intersection, descends into the valley, and follows a stream downstream until it meets the Ulster Way. A short walk along the evergreen section of the Way brings you back to Slievenaman Road and the car park.
What to See & Do
Summit Views & Features
The summit plateau is marked by a trig point and a small stone cairn, surrounded by angular granite outcrops. On clear days, visibility stretches across the Mournes to the Sperrin foothills in the north, with Strangford Lough and Carlingford Lough visible to the east. The stone shelter at the top provides a windbreak for a quick rest or lunch. The western ridge, known as Spellack (from speilic, meaning “splintery rock”), offers a short, rocky scramble for those seeking extra terrain variety.
Points of Interest Along the Route
- Hare’s Gap – A natural resting point where the Mourne Wall crosses a shallow col. A small kiosk often operates here in peak season.
- Spellack Spur – A distinctive rocky outcrop on the western flank, popular with scramblers and photographers.
- Pollaphuca Glen – A deep, rocky valley encountered on some descent routes, showcasing the glacial carving that shaped the Mournes.
- Fofanny Dam & Evergreen Wood – Visible on the Ott circuit return, offering a quiet contrast to the open summit terrain.
Flora, Fauna & Landscape
The lower slopes transition from mixed woodland to open heathland as elevation increases. Late summer brings carpets of purple heather across the northern aspects, while spring wildflowers like bell-heather and foxglove thrive in the sheltered gullies. The granitic bedrock creates acidic soils that support hardy mountain vegetation. Birdlife is active year-round; peregrine falcons, ravens, meadow pipits, and curlews are regular sightings. Red squirrels occasionally appear in the woodland fringes near Hare’s Gap, and mountain hares can be spotted on the higher plateaus during winter.
Practical Information & Safety
Getting There & Parking
- Trassey Car Park – Free parking at the base of Trassey Road. Spaces are limited; arrive early on weekends.
- Ott Car Park – Small, free parking area near the start of the Meelbeg circuit. Fills quickly in summer.
- Meelmore Lodge – Paid secure parking with access to toilets, showers, a café, and camping/hostel accommodation. Ideal for multi-day visitors or those wanting facilities before/after the hike.
- Public Transport – Translink buses run from Belfast to Newcastle (approx. 1.5 hours). From Newcastle, local services or taxis can reach Hilltown or the Trassey turn-off. Check timetables in advance, as rural services are infrequent.
Facilities
- Toilets – Accessible facilities at Trassey and Ott car parks, plus at Meelmore Lodge.
- Refreshments – Café and snack kiosk at Hare’s Gap; full café and hot meals at Meelmore Lodge; Turnip House (short walk from Trassey start) offers light bites.
- Accommodation – Meelmore Lodge (cabins, hostel, campsite), Cairn Bay Lodge, and numerous B&Bs in Hilltown and Newcastle.
- Dogs – Allowed on leads throughout the route.
Navigation & Safety
Slieve Meelmore is classified as strenuous. The terrain is rugged, with steep sections, boggy patches, and loose granite that can be slippery when wet. There is no formal trail signage beyond the initial Trassey Track marker. Walkers must carry OS map sheet 29 or a reliable GPS device. The Mourne Wall is an excellent guide, but navigation skills are essential for the descent, particularly where the wall splits or visibility drops.
Weather in the Mournes changes rapidly. Even in summer, temperatures at the summit can be significantly cooler than in the valleys. Pack waterproof layers, sturdy hiking boots, a windproof jacket, and sufficient water and snacks. Mobile signal can be unreliable above the treeline, so inform someone of your planned route and expected return time.
Best Time to Visit
- Late Spring to Early Autumn – Most reliable weather and dry paths. Heather blooms from August onwards.
- Winter – Snow and ice are common above 500 m. Only attempt with appropriate winter gear, experience, and a forecast check.
A walk up Slieve Meelmore is a test of endurance that pays off with raw, unfiltered mountain scenery. Start early from Trassey, keep the Mourne Wall close on the ascent, and allow extra time for the descent when visibility drops. The granite tors, the sweeping views, and the quiet satisfaction of reaching the stone shelter make it a route worth repeating season after season.