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Slieve Beagh adventures

Slieve Beagh Adventures

Slieve Beagh is a distinctive upland area straddling the borders of Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, offering rugged moorland terrain, diverse habitats, and rich cultural heritage for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Approx. 9,000 acres
Acres Protected
15+
Miles of Trails
Estimated 10,000–15,000
Annual Visitors
Designated Area of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI) - 1998
Year Established

About Slieve Beagh

 

Slieve Beagh is a remote, rugged upland region located at the tripoint of counties Monaghan (Republic of Ireland), Fermanagh, and Tyrone (Northern Ireland). Its highest peak reaches approximately 380 meters (1,247 feet), characterized by blanket bog, heathland, and scattered woodland. The blanket bogs and peatlands support a variety of wildlife, including upland bird species such as curlew, hen harrier, and meadow pipit. The terrain is predominantly moorland with deep peat, winding streams, and rocky outcrops, reflecting a glacial past. Historically, Slieve Beagh is steeped in Irish folklore with ancient cairns, standing stones, and remnants of early settlements scattered across its expanse. It serves as a natural border area with a blend of cultural influences from both Northern Ireland and the Republic. Recreational opportunities include hiking through open moorlands and peat bogs, wildlife watching, and exploring archaeological sites. Trails are generally informal and require good navigation skills due to the rugged and often boggy conditions. The area is known for its tranquility and remoteness, attracting visitors seeking solitude and a connection to wild, natural landscapes. Access points are limited, and visitors should prepare for rapidly changing weather and challenging footing. Slieve Beagh’s unique ecological and cultural character makes it an important conservation area recognized by both countries, preserving its rare habitats and traditional rural way of life.

Highlights

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Slieve Beagh Summit – highest point offering panoramic views over the border region

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Extensive blanket bog habitat supporting rare upland bird species

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Ancient megalithic cairns and archaeological features scattered across the upland

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Unmarked peat bog trails providing a wilderness experience for experienced hikers

Notable Natural Features

Slieve Beagh Summit

The highest elevation in the range at 380 meters, offering sweeping views across the surrounding counties and remote moorland.

Blanket Bog

One of the finest examples of intact blanket bog in Ireland, vital for carbon storage and rare species habitat.

Ancient Cairns and Standing Stones

Megalithic sites indicative of prehistoric human activity, contributing archaeological interest.