SLIEVE FOYE HIKE: CHASING SUNRISES OVER CARLINGFORD LOUGH AND THE MOURNE MOUNTAINS

CHASING SUNRISES ON SLIEVE FOYE

There are early starts and then there are 4:30am alarms. Especially the morning after Halloween!

On Sunday 1 Nov 2026, we heading out before first light towards the Cooley Mountains to climb Slieve Foye. The plan was simple: reach the summit in time to catch an epic sunrise over Carlingford Lough, with the Mourne Mountains stretching across the horizon.

What followed was a memorable morning of beautiful sunrise colours, changing mountain weather and new friendships. From first glimpse of daylight to watching the sun rise above Carlingford Lough, it was one of those experiences that reminds you why getting outdoors is always worth the effort.

This is our experience and guide of the Corrakit route via the Táin Way, including where we started, what the climb was like, the views from the summit and a few things worth knowing before setting off.

CHASING THE SUNRISE OVER CARLINGFORD LOUGH

On the final part of the climb, the darkness gradually gave way to twilight. The sky began to fill with shades of purple and pink, bringing the landscape around Carlingford Lough to life as the first light of the day approached.

We reached the summit at around 7:00am, approx. 25 minutes before sunrise at 7:25am on 1 November 2026. The timing couldn't have been better.

One of the most special things about watching the sunrise from Slieve Foye at this time of year is where the sun appears on the horizon. As autumn moves towards winter, the sunrise shifts further south. From our viewpoint, the sun appeared almost directly in the middle of Carlingford Lough, with first light spreading across the water towards the Co. Down coastline. It created a beautiful scene that made this November morning even more special.

From the summit, the views were something else. Looking out across the landscape, you could see Carlingford below, with Cranfield, Greencastle, Rostrevor and Warrenpoint across the water and the coastline stretching south towards Dundalk. Turn towards the north and the Mourne Mountains skyline stood out across the horizon. We could pick out a number of familiar peaks i.e. Slieve Martin, Binnian, Lamagan, Donard and Commedagh.

But, the Cooley Mountains deserve just as much attention. Standing on Slieve Foye, surrounded by the rugged hills and ridgelines of the Peninsula, you get a real appreciation for this landscape in its own right. With Carlingford Lough below and the Mournes stretching across the water, it's a viewpoint that brings two very special mountain landscapes together.

We spent around an hour at the summit, taking it all in, capturing photographs and watching the light change across the landscape. Every few minutes brought something different, from the changing colours in the sky to the sunlight gradually reaching the coastline and surrounding mountains.

It's one thing to see these mountains from the other side of the lough. It's something else entirely to stand above it all and watch the morning unfold.

SETTING OFF BEFORE SUNRISE

The decision to join came a few days earlier over a coffee catch-up with a friend in Warrenpoint, Co. Down. Looking across Carlingford Lough, Slieve Foye was standing there right on the horizon!

Shay (Picture the Moments), had already organised a sunrise hike, with Ben (Trail to Town Photography), joining him to capture the experience through photography and drone video. After a chat, I decided it was an opportunity I couldn't miss, to share the morning with two people who have the same appreciation for the outdoors.

The alarm went off at 4:30am. I left Peak HQ at 5:15am and met Shay and Ben at the Top Oil petrol station in Omeath, Co. Louth around 5:40am. From there, we made our way up Howes Hill towards Corrakit, passing the Long Woman's Grave before turning left towards the Táin Way path near Nellie's Farmhouse. Note: The map to the right shows the route we took from Omeath to our starting point at Corrakit to help other find the location.

We parked at the pull-in beside the Táin Way, near the Glenmore Athletic Club stone, before setting off on foot at around 6:00am.

It was pitch dark, with our head torches lighting the way. The moon and stars were out and we even spotted a few shooting stars as we made our way up the mountain. With very little light around us, our head torches picked out the path ahead as the landscape slowly began to reveal itself.

There was a real sense of anticipation about what was waiting for us at the summit.

CORRAKIT TÁIN WAY START POINT

Our starting point for the Slieve Foye hike was a small pull-in along the Táin Way at Corrakitt, near the Glenmore Athletic Club stone.

Parking location: Approx. 3P6G+G4 Corrakit, County Louth, Ireland

Parking here is limited, with space for approximately 4–5 cars. We arrived early and had no problem finding a space but it's worth bearing in mind if you're planning to visit during busier periods. Be considerate of local residents and avoid blocking access to nearby properties or farm entrances.

There are also warning signs in the area advising visitors about thefts from vehicles. Make sure your car is locked and avoid leaving valuables or equipment.

It's worth knowing that there are no toilets, cafés or facilities. If you need supplies, refreshments or a coffee before setting off, plan ahead and use facilities in Omeath or the surrounding area.

As we were starting in darkness, having the parking location saved beforehand made finding the correct starting point much easier. I'd recommend doing the same, particularly if your first visit.

From here, we left the car, switched on our head torches and began the walk towards Slieve Foye.

WHAT TO BRING FOR THE HIKE

Slieve Foye is a rewarding mountain but the route should be approached with care. The steep sections, uneven ground and exposed terrain mean that suitable footwear, preparation and navigation are important.

For an early-morning ascent, particularly if you're setting off in darkness to catch the sunrise, preparation makes a big difference.

This isn't an exhaustive list but here's what we'd recommend taking:

• Proper hiking boots: Essential for the uneven, rocky and marshy terrain. Good grip and ankle support are particularly useful on steeper sections.

• Head torch: Essential if you're setting off before sunrise. Make sure it's fully charged and consider carrying a spare light or batteries.

• Warm layers: Temperatures and wind conditions can feel very different at the summit compared with lower ground. Layers are essential.

• Waterproof jacket and trousers: Mountain weather can change quickly, even when the forecast looks promising. Be prepared for rain or wind.

• Gloves and a snood: Particularly useful during cold, exposed starts and while standing around at the summit of Slieve Foye.

• Spare clothing: A dry layer can be useful if you get wet or cold during the walk. Sometime this is forgotten for the post hike.

• Food and water: Bring enough to keep your energy up and stay hydrated. We had cereal bars, water and other snacks.

• Navigation: Carry a suitable map and compass,and know how to use them. Familiarise yourself with the route beforehand.

• First-aid kit: A sensible essential for any mountain walk. Whilst it was not used, it was good that Shay had this on hand.

• Fully charged phone and power bank: Useful for navigation and emergencies,but don't treat your phone as your only navigation equipment.

• Emergency essentials: Consider carrying a whistle and an emergency shelter, particularly for longer or more exposed mountain walks.

We were wearing a combination of Mourne Peak kit for the morning, including the new Peak Stormer Waterproof Jacket, Peak Beanie and 320 GSM Heavy Peak Long Tee. Shay wore the Peak Explorer 1/2 Zip Jacket, which proved to be a good windbreaker in the conditions on the day. However, he also had other waterproof layers with him, highlighting the need for a dedicated waterproof option within the Mourne Peak range.

That thinking has helped shape our next additions. Coming in November 2026, we'll be introducing three new pieces: the Stormer Waterproof Coat, Peak Fleece and Peak Snood. More to come in the space.

The hike was a great opportunity to put our existing gear through its paces in real mountain conditions while looking ahead to what's next for Mourne Peak. You can explore our current Element Series, Heavy Series and Accessories Collections on our website and ahead of the new releases. Our Peak Community Subscribers will get first notice on the availability of new releases.

A MORNING ABOVE THE CLOUDS

The weather at the summit kept changing, adding another dimension to the experience.

There is more to explore at the summit than just the views. The high point is marked by a trig pillar, with a stone cairn a short distance. The surrounding summit area is scattered with rocky outcrops and interesting stone formations, giving the top of Slieve Foye its own character. It's worth taking a little time to explore the area rather than simply stopping for a photograph before heading back down.

At times, the views were completely clear, with bright sunshine and incredible visibility across the surrounding landscape. Then mist would roll across the mountain, briefly changing the atmosphere before lifting again to reveal the views.

One of the highlights was seeing a cloud inversion towards Newry, Co.Down, with the landscape appearing to sit beneath a blanket of cloud. Looking across towards the Mourne's, as the mist and cloud shifted was a spectacular sight.

The wind was also much stronger at the summit than we had expected from the forecast. It was a good reminder that conditions on the mountain can be very different from those at lower ground, particularly when you're exposed at the summit.

Priority was always safety. Mountain conditions can change quickly and no photograph or shot is worth taking unnecessary risks. However, we were lucky to capture some drone footage from the day. Found on our socials pages: Mourne Peak, Picture the Moments and Trail to Town Photography.

Staying at the summit gave us the chance to experience all these changes. From clear blue skies and sunshine to passing mist and cloud rolling across the landscape, the mountain seemed to offer something different every time the views opened up.

SLIEVE FOYE HIKE — QUICK GUIDE FROM MOURNE PEAK

Sometimes the best part of getting outdoors isn't reaching the summit. It's everything that happens along the way.

The fresh air, the changing light, the unexpected moments and most importantly, the people you share them with.

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Our designs take inspiration from the mountains, trails, coastlines and stories that make this place home. Mourne Peak is about more than clothing. It's about getting outside, exploring what's on our doorstep and sharing those experiences with the community.

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CORRAKIT ROUTE TO SLIEVE FOYE

Leaving the Táin Way starting point behind, we followed the established mountain path towards Slieve Foye. The initial section is relatively gradual, making for a steady start as you begin to gain height and leave the lower ground behind.

As you climb, the landscape gradually opens up, with Carlingford Lough, the Cooley Peninsula and the Mourne Mountains coming into view. At the point where the lough opens up in front of you, we continued left towards the steeper incline leading to Slieve Foye summit. There are trail markers but it's important to familiarise yourself with the route before setting off, particularly if you're planning an early start in darkness when the path is difficult to see.

The character of the walk changes as you get higher. The ground becomes steeper and more uneven, with loose rocks and marshy sections along the way. There are also exposed drops beside parts of the path, so watch your footing and take your time, especially on the steeper sections.

Walking in darkness adds another challenge. With only our head torches lighting the way, it wasn't always easy to judge the distance remaining. There were moments when the summit looked as though it was only ten minutes away but it was further than it appeared!

Having someone like Shay with experience of the mountain made a real difference to our morning. Although we found the route manageable, the steep sections, uneven ground and changing mountain conditions mean it's not a walk to underestimate.

Good preparation, suitable footwear and reliable navigation are essential.

THE DESCENT AND HEADING BACK

After spending around an hour at the summit, it was time to head back down.

We were back on lower ground at approx. 8:45am. By around 9:00am, we passed the Barnavave Loop sign on our return. Although the daylight made it easier to see the terrain, the descent was still demanding. Loose ground, steep sections and damp, marshy patches meant we had to watch every step.

However, the walk back offered a completely different perspective of the Cooley Mountains. With the morning light now illuminating the landscape, features that had been hidden in darkness began to reveal themselves.

We spotted wild sheep roaming freely across the hillsides. Further down, the views towards Barnavave Loop and the cross on the hillside were surreal. Across the valley, St Anne's Church at Mullaghbuoy stood out beautifully against the surrounding hills, with Slieve Foye itself providing an impressive backdrop to horses roaming freely in the landscape.

t was another reminder of just how much there is to explore across this part of County Louth. The surrounding area also offers opportunities for a less demanding sunrise walk, with a different perspective of the same beautiful landscape without having to make the climb to Slieve Foye summit.

We stopped frequently to take photographs, so the descent could probably have been quicker. In some ways, it was almost easier walking up in the dark because you couldn't see quite how steep some of the sections were!

The important thing is not to underestimate the way back. What feels manageable on the climb can be more challenging when you're descending, particularly on loose or uneven ground.

By the time we reached the bottom, we'd had a full morning on the mountain. We'd watched the sunrise, experienced changing weather, spotted wildlife, taken in some incredible views and captured plenty of photographs along the way.

MORE THAN JUST A MOUNTAIN

Looking back, every minute of that early start was worth it!

From setting off beneath a sky full of stars and spotting shooting stars along the way, to watching the sun rise over Carlingford Lough and seeing the Mourne Mountains emerge across the horizon, it was one of those mornings that reminds you why exploring somewhere new is so rewarding.

Slieve Foye gave us incredible views, changing mountain conditions and a completely different perspective of the landscape we know so well from the other side of the lough. But it was about much more than reaching another summit. It was about experiencing the Cooley Mountains, discovering new places, capturing moments along the way and enjoying the freedom of being outdoors.

A big thank you to Shay from Picture the Moments for organising the hike and keeping us moving to catch the sunrise and to Ben from Trail to Town Photography for a new friendship found along the trail. We came away with some great photographs, plenty of memories and energy to do more.

If you'd like to see more of their adventures, photography and outdoor experiences, be sure to follow Shay and Ben on their social channels here:

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