Ballynagelty bench viewpoint from Kilbroney Forest Park

This has to be my favourite trek for views of Carlingford Lough especially if you’re lucky enough to be there for sunset.

Park at the upper car park in Kilbroney Forest Park and take the path opposite the one marked for Cloughmore.

The start of this trek is a steep zig-zag up through the forest and you come near the top of Slieve Martin. The cairn would only be a 5 min walk from here and is also worth a visit if you have time.

Follow the path on you’ll soon see the old stone wall (and fence) you’ll be following to get over to Ballynagelty – and the bench. As you come across Slievemeen you’ll soon see the entrance to Carlingford Lough and the lighthouse.

Keep following the wall and you will be heading towards the hill with the bench overlooking the lough. No better place to sit and have a coffee (or pre-mixed 1/4 bottle of vodka) while you watch the sun set.

There are 2 routes back to the carpark. I usually take the path to the left of the bench and follow it down to the top of the forest. From here you’ll get your first glimpse of Cloughmore. Again, there are a few routes from here to the stone and then back to the car park.

This is a 2.6 mile walk and quite steep in parts, but should still only take about an hour to do the loop. Walking sticks would also advisable as some of the downhill parts can be quite slippy.