Top 6 Natural Monuments around Creggan Bane Glebe
Natural monuments around Creggan Bane Glebe are situated within the Ring of Gullion Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), a region characterized by rolling hills, woodland paths, and river valleys. This area features significant natural landmarks, including the picturesque Poet's Glen and the Creggan River. Slieve Gullion, a central mountain at 573 meters, is the highest point in County Armagh and a prominent natural monument in the broader region. The region combines natural beauty with cultural heritage, offering diverse terrain…
Last updated: June 30, 2026
Slieve Gullion Summit
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North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough
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The Witch Sculpture
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Calliagh Beara Lough
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Castle Roche
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Unfortunately, the castle was under scaffolding at the time of our visit.
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In the middle of the forest, you suddenly find yourself standing in front of a bizarre stone creature - the "witch". She looks as if she has just risen from the mossy ground, with a mischievous smile and deep, expressive wrinkles on her face. This artfully designed stone is one of those unexpected encounters that transform the forest into a small adventure land. When you explore this magical place surrounded by old trees and whispering leaves, it almost seems as if the witch is greeting you with a wink. Here you can linger for a moment, enjoy the silence and let your imagination run wild - who knows what stories this forest still has to tell?
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As soon as you cross the gentle ridge of Slieve Gullion, the North Cairn stretches out before you - a slightly smaller hill than its southern neighbour, but no less impressive. The stones that gather here seem like silent sentinels, witnesses of the distant Bronze Age. Two ancient stone boxes were once found here during excavations, which lay hidden in the depths of history. The North Cairn, with its diameter of around 18 metres, invites you to pause for a moment and enjoy the peace. But it is not just the Cairn that is fascinating. Right next to it lies "Calliagh Beara's Lough", a quiet mountain lake that, according to legend, is the home of the witch Beara. On a clear day, the sky is reflected in the calm waters and you can almost feel the ancient magic of this place coming to life. The road here may be rocky, but the landscape rewards with sweeping views and a touch of mysticism that makes Slieve Gullion something special.
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This small forest at the foot of Slieve Gullion seems to be straight out of a fairy tale. Running through it will leave you enchanted, and you'll come across curious sculptures like this giant witch's face.
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This lough, located between the northern and southern burial cairns of Slieve Gullion, is the highest in Northern Ireland.
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At the heart of the Ring of Gullion AONB, you'll find this beautiful mountain, which represents the highest point in the county with an elevation of 573 meters (1,880 ft). Right next to it there is a burial cairn.
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Due to its privileged location, this incredible Anglo-Norman castle can be seen from miles around. It is believed to have been built in the first half of the 13th century by Lady Rohesia de Verdun after her husband's death. According to legend, she promised to marry the architect who built her a castle in Roche. When this happened and the architect claimed her hand, she threw him from one of the windows, which is known as the 'murder window.'
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most prominent natural monuments in the Creggan Bane Glebe area?
The most prominent natural monument is Slieve Gullion Summit, which is the highest point in County Armagh. Other significant features include the North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough, and the Calliagh Beara Lough itself, which is the highest lough in Northern Ireland.
Are there any historical or archaeological sites among the natural monuments?
Yes, the natural monuments around Creggan Bane Glebe are rich in history. Slieve Gullion Summit hosts the highest Passage Tomb in the British Isles. Additionally, the North Cairn of Slieve Gullion contains Bronze Age burial sites.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see in the Creggan Bane Glebe area?
The area is characterized by rolling hills, woodland paths, and river valleys, all within the scenic Ring of Gullion Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). You can explore the picturesque Poet's Glen and the Creggan River, as well as mountain lakes like Calliagh Beara Lough on Slieve Gullion.
Are there family-friendly natural monuments or activities in the region?
Yes, the area offers options for families. The Witch Sculpture, located in a forest at the foot of Slieve Gullion, is a unique and enchanting spot that children often enjoy. The broader Slieve Gullion Forest Park also provides family-friendly trails and attractions.
What outdoor activities can I do near these natural monuments?
The region is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find various hiking and running trails. For easy hikes, explore options like the Slieve Gullion Summit loops. For more challenging routes, consider the Poets' Trail. You can find more details on easy hikes, running trails, and general hiking routes around Creggan Bane Glebe.
Are there specific hiking trails to reach the summit of Slieve Gullion?
Yes, there are well-defined trails to reach the summit of Slieve Gullion. One popular route starts from the Slieve Gullion Viewing Platform, with a stairway of large rocks leading to the south cairn. You can find various hiking routes, including loops around the summit and Calliagh Beara Lough.
Is there parking available for visitors to Slieve Gullion?
Yes, there is ample parking available at the Slieve Gullion Viewing Platform, which serves as a common starting point for hikes to the summit and other attractions within Slieve Gullion Forest Park.
What is the significance of Calliagh Beara Lough?
Calliagh Beara Lough is notable for being the highest lough in Northern Ireland. It is situated between the northern and southern burial cairns of Slieve Gullion, adding to the mystical and ancient atmosphere of the mountain.
Can I visit Castle Roche as part of exploring natural monuments?
While primarily a historical site, Castle Roche is an impressive Anglo-Norman castle with a privileged location offering wide views, making it a natural landmark in its own right. It's located a short distance from the main natural features of Slieve Gullion and offers a glimpse into the region's past.
What makes the Poet's Glen and Creggan River special?
Poet's Glen is a picturesque and historically rich natural setting within Creggan Bane Glebe. The Creggan River flows rapidly through the glen, with well-wooded banks and an ornamental appearance. Creggan Bridge, located above the river's only waterfall, marks the head of this tranquil area, also known as 'The Lawns'.
What is the 'Ring of Gullion Way'?
The 'Ring of Gullion Way' is a 57 km long, marked circular hiking trail that leads around Slieve Gullion. A section of this trail, the 13 km long 'Slieve Gullion Walk', specifically guides hikers from a parking lot near Meigh to the summit and back, offering extensive views and a comprehensive experience of the area.
What should I know about the North Cairn of Slieve Gullion?
The North Cairn of Slieve Gullion is an 18-meter diameter Bronze Age burial site. During excavations, two stone boxes from the Bronze Age were discovered within the cairn. It's located right next to Calliagh Beara's Lough on the ridge, offering both historical significance and scenic beauty.
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