J1611 : The summit of Slieve Foye from Taaffe's Castle, Carlingford

Slieve Foye

587m Elevation
505m Prominence
I Country
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J1611 : The summit of Slieve Foye from Taaffe's Castle, Carlingford

Eric Jones Photo source

Explore routes near Slieve Foye

Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.

Carlingford and Slieve Foye Loop

This popular circular route begins in the scenic village of Carlingford. Follow the Táin Way markers out of the village towards Slieve Foye. The trail ascends gradually through forest paths and open mountainside, offering spectacular views of Carlingford Lough and the Mourne Mountains. The descent loops back into Carlingford, completing a rewarding circuit.

10.5 km ~4 hours Moderate

Slieve Foye Direct Ascent via Carlingford

This is a straightforward out-and-back route starting in Carlingford. The trail climbs steeply from the village, heading directly to the summit of Slieve Foye. While steep in sections, the route is well-trodden and offers panoramic views from the top. Descend by retracing your steps.

7 km ~3 hours Challenging

Slieve Foye Ridge Walk

This linear route follows the ridge of Slieve Foye, starting from the village of Omeath. The trail ascends gradually to the summit, offering a more extended exploration of the hill's features. You'll enjoy uninterrupted views of the Cooley Peninsula and Dundalk Bay. Arrange transport at either end for convenience.

12 km ~5 hours Strenuous

Glenmore to Slieve Foye Summit

This quieter route begins in the Glenmore Valley and ascends Slieve Foye from the west. The trail passes through lush landscapes and offers a peaceful alternative to busier routes. The summit rewards walkers with stunning views of the surrounding loughs and hills.

9 km ~4 hours Moderate

Táin Way Partial Loop Including Slieve Foye

This route incorporates a section of the Táin Way, starting in Carlingford and looping around the southern slopes of Slieve Foye. The trail offers varied terrain, including forest tracks and open mountain paths, and provides excellent views of the Cooley Peninsula.

14 km ~6 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Dodd Arderin Historic County Top (pre-1889) Current County/UA Top

Elevation

587m

1,926 ft

Prominence

505m

Coordinates

54.0444, -6.2163

J168120

OS Map

29 36

At the Summit

The summit features a large stone cairn, providing a perfect spot for a well-deserved rest and photographs. Look out for the stone marker indicating the high point.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky and grassy with some muddy sections especially after rain.

Slieve Foye is primarily composed of volcanic rock, specifically andesite. The mountain showcases a fascinating geological history, characterized by the ancient volcanic activity that shaped its rugged terrain and distinctive features.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, enjoy panoramic views of the Mourne Mountains, Carlingford Lough, and the majestic Irish Sea. On a clear day, you might even spot the distant Dublin Bay.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Slieve Foye' is derived from the Irish 'Sliabh Fóid', meaning 'mountain of the peat'.

Historical Significance

Historically, Slieve Foye has been a prominent feature in local folklore, often associated with ancient legends and tales of the past.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

The nearest parking is available in Carlingford village, with several public car parks offering ample space for vehicles.

Public Transport

Limited bus services run from nearby towns, but arrangements should be made in advance as schedules may vary.

Nearby Facilities

Carlingford offers a selection of cafes, pubs, and shops where you can stock up on supplies or enjoy a post-hike meal. Public toilets are also available in town.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Be mindful of slippery paths, especially in wet conditions. Windy days can also make the summit feel a bit less welcoming, so dress accordingly!

General Safety Tips

  • Check weather conditions before setting out
  • Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
  • Let someone know your planned route
  • Take a map, compass, and GPS device
  • Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch

Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Slieve Foye?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Slieve Foye through the maps

Are there other walkers around Slieve Foye?

Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Slieve Foye search or of course create your own walk for Slieve Foye

Can I organise a walk to Slieve Foye?

Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.

If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Slieve Foye.

How do I find a walk up this hill?

There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.

Can I suggest a new route up Slieve Foye?

Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.

Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Slieve Foye here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible

Location

Slieve Foye location map

Grid reference: J168120

View on OpenStreetMap

Opens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.

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