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This week’s episode of Tracks and Trails follows archaeologist Paul Gosling and presenter Doireann Ní Ghlacáin on a 10km walk that threads natural panoramas with centuries of history, from Slieve Foye Forest Park down into the medieval streets of Carlingford. The route mixes mountain viewpoints, a deserted village, and the silhouette of Carlingford Castle, offering a compact but layered taste of Ireland’s past.
The route in brief
The walk starts at Slieve Foye Woods Car Park and climbs through forest and upland trails to several lookout points, including the spot known as Queen Maeve’s Gap. From high ground the path drops past a haunting abandoned settlement before arriving on the ridge above Carlingford.
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A final descent leads into the town, where the walk finishes beside the imposing presence of Carlingford Castle. The sequence of landscapes makes each stage feel like a different chapter in local history.
Practical details
Distance: 10km. Duration: 3–4 hours. The route is described as moderate to challenging, so allow time for climbs and stops at viewpoints.
Terrain: Expect forest tracks, mountain trails, some rocky stretches and narrow village lanes. The path includes exposed sections where conditions can change quickly.
Navigation and safety
The trails are waymarked, but a map or a reliable GPS app is recommended, especially for the mountain sections or if you choose not to follow the full loop. Check the weather beforehand: exposed ridges can be windy and damp underfoot after rain.
Take care on steep or rocky descents. Trail quality may vary with the seasons, so pace yourself and wear appropriate footwear.
What to bring
- Sturdy hiking boots with good grip
- Waterproof jacket and layered clothing
- Water, snacks and a camera
After the walk
Carlingford provides a hospitable finish. The village has cafés, restaurants and pubs clustered along medieval streets. Fresh seafood and views across the lough make for a fitting reward after the hike.
Archaeology and heritage
Paul Gosling highlights how human presence has shaped these hills for millennia. Ruined settlements along the route are among the many across Ireland that speak to episodes such as the Great Famine, evictions and subsequent emigration in the 19th century.
Walking through these sites invites reflection on the lives once lived here and the long historical processes that altered rural communities.
Watch Tracks and Trails on Fridays on RTÉ One at 8:30pm. Episodes are available on RTÉ Player, and viewers outside Ireland can find the show on YouTube.
