A marked trail through Iniscarn Forest leads to a bog path towards the summit. There is also the history of the old St Patrick's Church and the Lughnasadh tradition on Slieve Gallion. This gives you several ways to focus a trip to Desertmartin: you can make a walk the centrepiece or explore the history of the area and its festivals.

Walking in Iniscarn Forest

Iniscarn Forest lies on the edge of the Sperrins Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, on the slopes of Slieve Gallion. The Iniscarn Forest Trail is a 6.1-kilometre out-and-back route, rated moderate, and takes an average of 2 hours and 15 minutes. A marked walking trail leads through the forest to a bog path towards the summit. The trail climbs steeply to the northeastern summit area of Slieve Gallion; views open up there, with visibility depending on the weather.

In winter or after rain, the ground can become boggy; diversions may be in place in the working forest. So check the current route before setting off. The land around the summit is privately owned, and access arrangements may change. Follow the current notices on site.

Dogs must be kept on a lead on the trail, as free-roaming sheep may be found on the mountain slopes. Iniscarn Forest is home to Irish hares, curlews and black grouse, among other wildlife; their presence varies seasonally. The changing wildlife and conditions on the ground are therefore also part of planning a walk, alongside the route and views.

Churches and Lughnasadh

The name Desertmartin derives from the Irish “Diseart Mhartain” and means “hermitage of Saint Martin”. The old St Patrick's Church also still stands. It was always known as Keenaught, was rebuilt through contributions in 1835 and closed in 1973. The name and church records provide different historical points of reference for the area.

St Comgall's Church is located near Desertmartin, on Dromore Road; it was built in 1821. Services are held there on Sundays at 12 noon. If you would like to include this service in your plans, confirm the time beforehand, as service times may change.

Gatherings for the Lughnasadh harvest festival were held on Slieve Gallion from the Middle Ages until the 20th century. Alongside the history of the churches, this festival tradition on the mountain offers a distinct cultural and historical focus.

Another focus: motorsport

The Desertmartin Motocross Track was used for British Motocross Championship rounds. The sand track is on Rectory Road in Magherafelt, County Londonderry. Its former use for championship rounds adds a historical motorsport connection to the landscape and church themes.

When looking for a holiday apartment in Desertmartin, you could first consider which focus you want to shape your trip: the walk with its defined distance and duration, church history and Lughnasadh, or the historical motorsport connection. For the walk, the route, terrain and weather are practical points to consider; you should confirm the service time at St Comgall's Church in advance.

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