Cooley Peninsula & Táin Trail

The Cooley Peninsula is Ireland's setting for the Táin Bó Cúailnge - the greatest epic of Celtic mythology. This dramatic peninsula where Cú Chulainn defended Ulster offers mountains, mythology, and Mourne views.

Why This Route?

Cooley combines legend and landscape:

• Táin mythology - Ireland's Iliad set here
• Mountain driving - Dramatic Cooley Mountains
• Mourne views - Across Carlingford Lough
• Medieval Carlingford - Perfectly preserved heritage town
• Border country - Northern Ireland visible across the water

The Táin Bó Cúailnge

Ireland's great epic tells of Queen Maeve of Connacht's cattle raid to capture the Brown Bull of Cooley. The hero Cú Chulainn single-handedly defended Ulster, fighting a series of combats at fords across the landscape.

The Route

Starting from Dundalk

Louth's largest town has good facilities. The County Museum covers local history and mythology.

Faughart

Birthplace of St Brigid and site of an early monastery. Edward Bruce (brother of Robert) is buried here after his 1318 defeat.

Ravensdale Forest

Pine forest with walking trails at the foot of the Cooleys.

Carlingford

The jewel of the route - a medieval town of remarkable preservation:

Medieval Heritage

• King John's Castle - Norman fortress on the harbour
• Taaffe's Castle - 16th-century tower house
• The Mint - Medieval merchant's house
• The Tholsel - Gateway in town walls
• Dominican Friary - Atmospheric ruins

Town Character

Narrow medieval streets, pubs, craft shops, oyster restaurants.

Táin Way

This 40km hiking trail circles the peninsula, following Cú Chulainn's legendary route. Day sections are walkable.

Slieve Foy

The Cooley Mountains' highest peak (589m). The ridge walk offers spectacular views but requires experience.

Long Woman's Grave

A megalithic tomb on the mountain slope, associated with a Spanish princess legend.

Windy Gap

A mountain pass with views in all directions - the Mournes across the lough, the drumlin belt inland.

Omeath

A quiet village on the lough shore, traditionally a day-trip destination from Northern Ireland. The ferry to Warrenpoint (seasonal) crosses the lough.

Proleek Dolmen

Detour inland to see this remarkable portal tomb - a massive capstone balanced impossibly on small stones.

Walking Options

Táin Way (Sections)

• Full circuit: 40km (2-3 days)
• Carlingford to Ravensdale: 16km (1 day)
• Various shorter loops

Slieve Foy Ridge

• Distance: 12km
• Time: 5-6 hours
• Difficulty: Challenging
• Highlights: Summit, ridge walk, views

Carlingford Forest Walks

• Multiple marked trails
• Various lengths
• Family-friendly options

Food & Drink

Carlingford Oysters

The lough is famous for oysters. Try them at:

• Ghan House - Restaurant with rooms
• PJ O'Hare's - Traditional pub with oysters
• Carlingford Arms - Hotel restaurant

Carlingford Oyster Festival

Annual August celebration of the town's seafood heritage.

Practical Tips

1. Carlingford is small - Parking can be difficult on weekends
2. Mountain roads - Some are narrow; drive carefully
3. Táin Way - Download maps; some sections poorly marked
4. Ferry to Warrenpoint - Check seasonal schedule
5. Medieval town tour - Guides available locally