38 The route also takes in Barnavave, which is an anglicised version of Bearna Mhéabha (Méabh’s Gap). Legend has it that Meabh’s army dug a gap in the mountain so that the track they made might remain there for ever as an insult to the men of Ulster. Apart from the myths and legends, there is a lot of evidence of the Cooleys’ rich historical past in its passage graves, portal tombs and in the town of Carlingford itself, which contains a medieval castle built in 1190, called Carlingford Castle or King John’s Castle. For readers who would like to learn more about this part of Ireland’s Ancient East, or to walk the full 41km of the Táin Way, further information can be found at www.alltrails.com/trail/ireland/county-louth/the-tain-way. THE ROUTE Starting in Carlingford, Co Louth, where there is ample parking, the walk ascends uphill out of the town. The first section of the walk is part of the Commons Loop, going over a stile at about 1km. However, this route diverges from the Commons Loop at 1.2km by turning right, up a grassy track to the Goalyin Pass at 300m elevation and 2.5km. Pictured this page: The view back towards Meabh’s Gap from Slieve Foye. Photo: Derek Watters
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