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United Kingdom
Northern Ireland
Newry And Mourne

Ballymacdermot

Easy hikes and walks around Ballymacdermot

4.3

(132)

993

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75

hikes

Easy hiking trails around Ballymacdermot are situated within the Ring of Gullion Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offering a varied landscape for outdoor exploration. The region features low mountains such as Ballymacdermot Mountain and Camlough Mountain, providing a natural setting for routes. Hikers can experience panoramic views of Slieve Gullion and the surrounding ring dyke hills, alongside historical elements like the Ballymacdermot Cairn. This area provides a network of paths suitable for different abilities.

Best easy hiking trails around Ballymacdermot

Last updated: May 3, 2026

5.0

(1)

3

hikers

#1.

Giant's Lair Trail

4.16km

01:01

150m

140m

Explore the easy 2.6-mile (4.2 km) Giant's Lair Trail through Slieve Gullion Forest Park, discovering mythical folklore and whimsical art in

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Easy

3.0

(2)

3

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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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This easy 2.7-mile loop around Bessbrook Pond offers a pleasant hike past the Bessbrook War Memorial and through a historic village.

Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Tips from the Community

JakobusPilger
June 4, 2025, Bessbrook War Memorial

Here, too, passersby encounter a "war memorial" in the center of town. Everywhere in the villages and towns, victims were mourned during the terrible wars (especially, but not only, in the first half of the last century) – often young people who had to endure suffering and pain and ultimately paid with their own lives for their service to their fatherland far from home. Their names are always inscribed on the respective memorial to at least keep the memory alive.

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Here, too, hikers and walkers will encounter a "war memorial" in the center of town, as throughout the villages and towns, victims of the terrible wars (especially in the first half of the last century) were mourned – often young people who had to endure suffering and pain and ultimately paid with their own lives for their service to their country far from home. Their names are always inscribed on the respective memorial to at least keep the memory alive.

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The war memorial in Bessbrook stands silently yet full of meaning in the heart of the village. The white obelisk bears the names of almost ninety people who gave their lives in the Second World War - a sign of remembrance and remembrance of those who once lived here and defended their homeland. As you walk past, you can read the inscriptions that tell the stories of those who fell. The square around the memorial is simple, but that is precisely what draws the focus to the message of remembrance and the silent commemoration of the past. The surrounding houses seem to carry the history of the place and you can almost feel how yesterday and today are connected here. A place that makes you pause and reminds you of how important it is to preserve history.

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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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From the Flagstaff Viewpoint you can enjoy a stunning view of the expansive landscape where the Newry River gently curves its way to Carlingford Lough. The view stretches down to the fjord where the land meets the water and the hills in the distance form a picturesque backdrop. The valley opens up between the lush green conifers and you can watch the landscape unfold below you. From up here, the roads and fields look like little veins and patches that tie the whole picture together. It is a place to linger and enjoy the silence - a haven of calm that makes you feel above it all.

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On the way through the Giant's Lair you will be immersed in Irish legends. As soon as you pass under the artistically carved archway, a magical world opens up in which the story of Finn McCool comes to life. The path leads you and the whole family through four chapters that bring the world of legend to life with lovingly designed stations. For the little ones it is an exciting treasure hunt - at every bend there are new clues waiting for them, which they eagerly discover. While they run ahead to find the next adventure, there is enough time for you to enjoy the lush nature. The dense trees, the mosses and the ancient carvings make you forget everyday life. You are in the middle of a story that unfolds further with every step.

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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 War Memorial in Bessbrook is dedicated to the 86 individuals from the village who gave their lives in the Second World War. It is a 17-foot (5.75 meters) tall obelisk.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many easy hiking trails are available around Ballymacdermot?

There are over 40 easy hiking trails around Ballymacdermot, offering a variety of landscapes within the Ring of Gullion Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Are there any circular easy walks in Ballymacdermot?

Yes, many of the easy trails are circular. For example, the Fathom Wood loop — Ring of Gullion is an easy 7.7 km circular path that winds through woodland. Another option is the Bessbrook War Memorial — loop around the Bessbrook Pond, which is a 4.3 km circular route.

What kind of views can I expect on easy hikes in Ballymacdermot?

Easy hikes in Ballymacdermot often provide panoramic views. From various points, you can see the plain of Meigh, the majestic Slieve Gullion, the distinctive ring dyke hills, and even the more distant Mourne and Cooley mountain ranges. Trails around Camlough Mountain also offer views down to Camlough Lake.

Are there any historical sites to see on easy walks?

Yes, the area is rich in history. The Ballymacdermot Cairn, a well-preserved Neolithic court tomb dating back thousands of years, is a significant historical feature you can explore. The region also has other megalithic sites like Clontygora Court Cairn and Ballykeel Dolmen nearby.

What is the best time of year for easy hikes in Ballymacdermot?

Ballymacdermot is suitable for hiking year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, while summer provides longer daylight hours. Even in winter, many easy trails remain accessible, though waterproof footwear is advisable due to potentially soggy ground, especially on higher elevations like Camlough Mountain.

Are the easy trails suitable for families with children?

Yes, many easy trails are suitable for families. The Giant's Lair Trail, at 4.2 km, is a popular choice with a gentle ascent, making it manageable for children. The diverse woodlands and historical sites also offer engaging points of interest for younger hikers.

What should I wear for easy hikes in Ballymacdermot?

Given the varied terrain and potential for damp conditions, especially on the lower slopes of mountains, it's recommended to wear comfortable hiking shoes or boots, preferably waterproof. Layered clothing is also advisable to adapt to changing weather conditions.

Are there any lakes or water features along the easy hiking routes?

Yes, you can find water features. The Bessbrook War Memorial — loop around the Bessbrook Pond offers a pleasant walk around a lake. Additionally, trails around Camlough Mountain provide views of Camlough Lake.

What do other hikers enjoy most about easy trails in Ballymacdermot?

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 120 reviews. Hikers often praise the stunning panoramic views, the peaceful woodland sections, and the historical intrigue of sites like the Ballymacdermot Cairn, all within the beautiful Ring of Gullion.

Are there any easy trails that offer views of Slieve Gullion?

Yes, many easy trails in the Ballymacdermot area offer direct views of Slieve Gullion, known as "Ireland's Mountain of Mystery." The panoramic vistas from various points, including the Ballymacdermot Cairn, frequently feature this iconic mountain.

Can I find easy trails near Newry?

Yes, there are easy trails accessible from Newry. The Newry River loop from Newry is an easy 3.8 km trail that follows the river, offering a pleasant walk close to the town.

Are there any easy trails that explore the lower slopes of Camlough Mountain?

Yes, the Summit of Ring of Gullion – Camlough Mountain Summit loop from Ballinliss is an easy 5.5 km trail that leads through the lower slopes of Camlough Mountain, providing a good introduction to the area's natural beauty.

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