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Slieve Gullion

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Mountain

Weather…

Slieve Gullion, rising to 573 metres, is the highest peak in County Armagh and the centrepiece of the eponymous ring dyke complex. Geologically, it represents the eroded remains of a Tertiary volcano, with the central mountain surrounded by a distinct ring of hills. The area is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and gives a unique tapestry of heathland and deciduous forests. The summit features the highest passage tomb in Ireland, a Bronze Age monument deeply entwined with Celtic mythology and the legendary hero Fionn mac Cumhaill. Another notable feature is the small lake near the summit, Calliagh Berra's Lough, which is steeped in local folklore and mystery. Archaeological evidence indicates that the region has been inhabited for thousands of years. Today, Slieve Gullion Forest Park is a significant hub for tourism and environmental education in Northern Ireland.

Location: Ireland
Top sights: Slieve Gullion North Cairn · Slieve Gullion South Cairn · Ballykeel Dolmen
Nearby: Warrenpoint (13 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	5	5	6	8	11	13	15	15	13	11	8	6
Rain mm	92	74	76	63	74	85	90	101	82	108	106	97

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

Access is typically excellent via the Slieve Gullion Forest Park, which provides signposted routes leading directly onto the mountain. The drive ascending through the park is famous for its scenic forested landscapes.

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Best season

Spring through early autumn is the good window for hiking to the summit and enjoying the views over the Ring of Gullion. While open year-round, winter weather can bring harsh, icy winds and low visibility near the peak.

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Terrain & paths

The ascent trail blends well-maintained gravel and stone paths in the lower sections with rugged, boggy moorland closer to the summit. There is a steep, continuous climb that demands a reasonable level of physical fitness.

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What to bring

Sturdy hiking boots are strongly recommended to navigate the rocky steps and potentially muddy patches near the top. As the summit is exposed, packing windproof layers and adequate hydration is always necessary.

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Parking

The primary and most secure parking area is located within the Slieve Gullion Forest Park courtyard. This facility is spacious and serves as the main hub for accessing the various woodland and mountain trails.

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Safety

Be cautious of high winds when approaching the summit ridge, as it gives little to no natural shelter. Stick to the designated paths to protect the delicate bog ecosystem and avoid disorienting drops in misty conditions.

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Time needed

Reaching the summit and returning to the forest park car park typically takes around three to four hours. The scenic drive loop around the mountain slopes can take an additional 30 to 45 minutes by car.

Geography

Coordinates

54.13330, -6.45000

Facts

The elevation of Slieve Gullion is 573 metres.
The Ring of Gullion formation was created about 60 million years ago.
The passage tomb on the summit dates back to the Bronze Age.
It is the highest point in County Armagh.
Slieve Gullion Forest Park covers over 2,000 hectares of land.
In mythology, it is famed as the seat of the Cailleach Bhéara.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Newry9 km · NEExplore →

Warrenpoint13 km · EExplore →

Dundalk Industrial Zone15 km · SExplore →

Carlingford20 km · SEExplore →

Mourne Mountains24 km · EExplore →

Carrickmacross25 km · SWExplore →

📍Banbridge26 km · NEExplore →

Armagh28 km · NWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Slieve Gullion (5)

Slieve Gullion North Cairn

Stone cairn on the northern summit of Slieve Gullion, a Bronze Age burial site.

🌐 communities-ni.gov.uk

Slieve Gullion South Cairn

Stone cairn on the southern summit of Slieve Gullion, likely a Bronze Age tomb.

🌐 communities-ni.gov.uk

Ballykeel Dolmen

Neolithic tripod portal tomb, a megalithic burial structure.

St Moninna's Well

Holy well in County Armagh, Northern Ireland, UK, associated with Saint Moninna.

Killeavy Castle🏰 castle

Country house in Clonlum, County Armagh, Northern Ireland, built in the 19th century.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Where is Slieve Gullion located?

In south County Armagh in Northern Ireland.

What geological feature is there?

It is the center of a 'Ring Dyke', a ring-shaped mountain range of volcanic origin.

What is on the summit?

A prehistoric passage tomb, considered the highest in Ireland.

Are there activities for families?

Yes, Slieve Gullion Forest Park has a fairy trail and a large adventure playground.

How high is the mountain?

Slieve Gullion is 573 meters high.

Slieve Gullion: where is it located?

Slieve Gullion is located in Ireland.

Slieve Gullion: what is there to see?

Highlights include Slieve Gullion North Cairn, Slieve Gullion South Cairn, Ballykeel Dolmen.

Slieve Gullion: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Slieve Gullion: why is it worth visiting?

Slieve Gullion, rising to 573 metres, is the highest peak in County Armagh and the centrepiece of the eponymous ring dyke complex.

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