Sawel Mountain, Mountain summit in County Londonderry, United Kingdom
Sawel Mountain is the highest peak of the Sperrin Mountains in Northern Ireland, rising to 678 meters above the surrounding land. The bare summit is covered in moorland heath and offers expansive views across surrounding valleys and distant mountain ranges.
The mountain became the site of a tragic aircraft crash in 1944 when a Royal Navy plane went down in harsh weather. This event remains part of the region's wartime history and is still remembered by local people.
The mountain holds deep roots in Irish mythology, particularly through its connection to ancient stories about Queen Méabh, shaping how locals view the place. This legendary heritage gives the landscape a sense of cultural weight that visitors can feel while exploring the heights.
The ascent follows a fence line trail from a small parking area near the trailhead where space is limited. Check weather conditions before visiting, as the exposed summit can be difficult to navigate when fog or rain rolls in.
The River Faughan springs from this summit, flowing down to become one of the region's major waterways. The slopes show crystalline limestone formations alongside rare alpine plants that thrive only at this elevation.
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