Crotlieve Mountain

About Crotlieve Mountain

Rising above the Kilbroney Valley in the western Mournes, this rounded, heather-clad Hump offers a gentler alternative to the high granite peaks. Accessible via the Yellow Water tracks, its summit provides a superb vantage point over Carlingford Lough and the Cooley Mountains across the water.

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Did You Know?

• •The name Crotlieve is an anglicisation of the Irish Cruatshliabh, meaning 'Hard Mountain', likely a reference to the dense heather and rougher underfoot conditions compared to the lower pastures.
• •Situated in the Western Mournes, the hill is often climbed as part of a circular route starting from the Yellow Water car park, frequently taking in the neighbouring peak of Leckan More.
• •Looking northeast, the view from the top opens up toward the higher, craggier heart of the range, specifically the distant pyramid of Slieve Meelbeg and the rounded dome of Slieve Muck.
• •The summit serves as a high-altitude platform for a telecommunications transmitter, which acts as a useful navigational landmark for those walking the trails of Rostrevor Forest below.
• •Despite the 'Hard Mountain' moniker, the most difficult aspect of the ascent is usually the waist-high heather, which makes a mockery of any attempt to maintain a dignified stride.