Top 14 Natural Monuments around Ballincurry Upper
Best natural monuments around Ballincurry Upper include significant geological formations and scenic viewpoints. The region, located in County Down, Northern Ireland, features the Cooley Mountains and overlooks Carlingford Lough. These natural features offer diverse landscapes for exploration, from ancient stones to mountain summits. The area provides opportunities to observe geological history and panoramic vistas.
Best natural monuments around Ballincurry Upper
- The most popular natural monument is Cloughmore Stone, an erratic stone estimated to weigh 50 tons. This geological formation…
Last updated: June 30, 2026
Cloughmore Stone
Highlight • Natural
Legend …
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Slieve Foye Summit
Highlight • Summit
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Long Woman's Grave Memorial
Highlight • Monument
Fantastic views on the way to the top.
Can be approached from either North or South.
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Fiddlers Green
Highlight • Forest
Great place for a picnic or hydration stop on your hike or gravel/MTB run.
Made famous by the annual Fiddlers Green folk festival held in Rostrevor.
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Barnavave Summit
Highlight • Summit
Translated by Google •
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Tips from the Community
The Long Woman's Grave car park is right at the top of a gentle climb, giving you the perfect opportunity to take in the rolling landscape. Whether you're coming from the north or the south, the roads take you through varied terrain that reveals new panoramas with every bend. It's worth taking a moment to read the story of the "Long Woman" at the memorial - somehow this mystical atmosphere fits perfectly into the surroundings. On the way up, you hardly encounter any traffic, which allows you to fully concentrate on nature and your own line in the bends. The fresh breeze and the smell of damp grass add a little extra to the climb. But the roads are not always in the best condition - some sections do require attention, especially after a rain shower. Once you reach the summit, there is a small rest area, ideal for taking a quick breather and regaining strength for the next stage. A perfect spot to take a short break before continuing with renewed vigor.
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The hike to the Cloghmór Stone feels like a journey through time. Over 10,000 years ago, the ice brought this massive granite block from Scotland here, and now, weighing an estimated 50 tons, it towers majestically over the landscape. But it's not just the geology that's fascinating - according to legend, it was the giant Finn McCool who threw this enormous stone over Carlingford Lough. To be honest, the legend is a much more exciting explanation, isn't it? Once you've reached the top, you'll not only be greeted by the imposing boulder, but also by a fantastic view of Carlingford Lough and the surrounding hills. It's the perfect place to pause for a moment, take in the vastness and enjoy the peace that this place exudes.
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Here it is worth climbing the mountain
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Wikipedia (Slieve Foy (Irish: Sliabh Feá), 2023-12-02): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Slieve_Foy Wikipedia (Lists of mountains in Ireland, 2023-12-02): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lists_of_mountains_in_Ireland MountainViews.ie (Slieve Foye, 2023-12-02): https://mountainviews.ie/summit/298/ TheIrishRoadtrip (“A Guide To The Slieve Foye Loop: Trail, Parking + Handy Info”, 2023-12-02): https://www.theirishroadtrip.com/slieve-foye-loop/
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Wikipedia (Cooley Mountains, 2024-07-28): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cooley_Mountains "... Barnavave (350m). This latter name comes from Bearna Mhéabha (Maeve's Gap), and refers to the legendary Queen Medb (Maeve), whose army is said to have dug a pass through the mountain. ..."
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A beautiful round stone, there is a legend about it but unfortunately we could not find out
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A beautiful secluded clearing in the Oak forest. The message on the bench is pretty apt for any trail runners who have slogged up the hill!
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Lovely quite spot to take a break. Or be sure to get up for the Setting The Scene event of Fiddlers Green Festival every Summer for music and stories!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most prominent natural monuments to visit around Ballincurry Upper?
The region offers several impressive natural monuments. Among the most notable is the Cloughmore Stone, an immense erratic stone with spectacular views over Carlingford Lough. Another must-see is Slieve Foye Summit, the highest peak of the Cooley Mountains, offering breathtaking panoramic vistas.
Are there good hiking opportunities near these natural monuments?
Yes, there are numerous hiking opportunities. For easy walks, you can explore trails like the Cloughmore Trail or the Cloughmore Stone loop from Rostrevor. These are part of the Easy hikes around Ballincurry Upper guide, which provides routes suitable for various fitness levels.
What kind of views can I expect from the natural monuments in the area?
Many natural monuments in Ballincurry Upper offer stunning panoramic views. From the Slieve Foye Summit, you can see across Carlingford Lough and the village of Carlingford. The Cloughmore Stone also provides excellent views over Carlingford Lough and the Mourne Mountains.
Are there any historical or legendary natural monuments in Ballincurry Upper?
Yes, the Cloughmore Stone is steeped in legend, believed to have been thrown across Carlingford Lough by the mythical giant Finn McCool. Additionally, the Long Woman's Grave Memorial, while a man-made monument, is set amidst natural beauty and carries its own local folklore.
Are the natural monuments around Ballincurry Upper suitable for families?
Absolutely. Kilbroney Park, which hosts the Cloughmore Stone, offers family-friendly trails and amenities. Fiddlers Green, a secluded clearing in an oak forest, is also noted as family-friendly and a great spot for a picnic.
Can I bring my dog to the natural monuments near Ballincurry Upper?
Many outdoor areas, including parts of Kilbroney Park where the Cloughmore Stone is located, are dog-friendly. Always ensure your dog is kept on a lead and that you clean up after them. There are even dog waste bins available on trails leading to spots like Fiddlers Green.
What is the best time of year to visit the natural monuments?
The natural monuments can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and summer offer milder weather and lush landscapes, ideal for hiking and enjoying the views. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter can offer crisp, clear views, though some trails might be more challenging due to conditions.
Where can I find parking when visiting these natural monuments?
Parking is available at several key locations. For instance, there's a car park at the Long Woman's Grave Memorial, which also serves as a starting point for exploring the surrounding natural beauty. Kilbroney Park, home to the Cloughmore Stone, also has designated parking areas.
What other outdoor activities are available besides hiking near these natural monuments?
Beyond hiking, the area is excellent for cycling. You can find various routes in the Road Cycling Routes around Ballincurry Upper guide, including climbs and scenic loops. Mountain biking is also popular, with trails like those in the MTB Trails around Ballincurry Upper guide, particularly within Kilbroney Park.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the natural monuments in Ballincurry Upper?
Visitors frequently highlight the stunning panoramic views, especially from spots like Slieve Foye Summit and Barnavave Summit, which offer 360-degree vistas. The geological significance of the Cloughmore Stone and the peaceful, secluded clearings like Fiddlers Green are also highly appreciated.
Are there any circular walks that include natural monuments?
Yes, there are several circular walks. For example, you can find routes like the Cloughmore Stone – View of Carlingford Lough loop from Killowen, or the Cloughmore Stone loop from Rostrevor, which allow you to experience the natural beauty and return to your starting point. These are detailed in the Easy hikes around Ballincurry Upper guide.
What should I bring for a visit to the natural monuments?
For a comfortable visit, especially if hiking, it's advisable to bring appropriate footwear, water, and weather-appropriate clothing as conditions can change. If you plan a picnic, spots like Fiddlers Green are ideal, so consider packing snacks. Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning views!
Most popular attractions around Ballincurry Upper
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