Cove Mountain

About Cove Mountain

Tucked between the dramatic crags of Slieve Beg and the steep slopes of Slieve Lamagan, this rugged granite peak overlooks the Annalong Valley. Its defining feature is the Great Cove, a massive glacial amphitheatre on the eastern face that houses a well-known cave, offering a wilder character than many of its neighbouring summits.

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Did You Know?

• •The name is purely descriptive, referring to the 'Cove' or glacial corrie on the eastern side of the mountain, a feature that also conceals the notable Cove Cave within its cliffs.
• •The summit offers a clear, elevated perspective of the Silent Valley Reservoir to the south, perfectly framed by the steep slopes of Slieve Binnian and Slievenaglogh.
• •Explorers often seek out the Cove Cave, a deep natural fissure in the rock located on the precipitous eastern slopes, though reaching it requires careful navigation of steep, broken ground.
• •The hill is frequently climbed as part of a classic eastern Mournes circuit starting from Carrick Little, often utilizing the historic Brandy Pad—a former smuggler's track—to traverse the lower slopes.
• •Despite the name, do not expect a seaside experience; the only 'beach' here is the loose granite scree that waits to test your ankles on the descent toward the Annalong Valley.