Slieve Roosley Scenic Loop

About

The Slieve Roosley landscape could be described as the ‘hidden Mournes', tucked away in the foothills between Rostrevor and Hilltown - a tranquil, lesser-trodden corner of the Mourne Mountains that inspired C.S. Lewis’s magical world of Narnia. The author spent childhood holidays in nearby Rostrevor, and it’s easy to see how the windswept hilltops, intimate valleys, and quiet glens could spark the imagination.

This rich, varied landscape is dotted with welcoming villages, traditional farms, and ancient woodland. Rostrevor Oak Wood is one of the last surviving native oak woodlands in Ireland and, along with the nearby Rostrevor and Yellow Water Forest and Kilbroney Park, provides miles of peaceful walking trails.

Nature lovers and families will enjoy the scenic picnic spots at Leitrim Lodge and Hen Mountain, the latter known for its striking granite tors and almost lunar summit – a favourite for both walkers and rock climbers.

Nearby Hilltown holds tales of 18th- and 19th-century smugglers who crossed the Mournes with contraband from the coast via the old Brandy Pad, sharing their bounty in the village. Today, it’s a picturesque stop for refreshments – this time perfectly above board!

For breathtaking views, head to Coyle's Hill at the top of the Yellow River above Hilltown, where the panorama across Slieve Roosley, the Yellow River and the High Mournes is nothing short of spectacular - making it a must-see vantage point.

Stary by following the Mourne Coastal Route (brown) signage, and follow the Slieve Roosley Scenic Route. The Slieve Roosley Scenic loop in Rostrevor County Down, starts in the middle of Rostrevor, heading north up the Kilbroney Road along the Kilbroney River and follow route to Hiltown, continue to the Yellow Road which leads you back into Rostrevor.