Description
Keshcorran rises to 359 metres, making it the highest point in the Bricklieve Mountains. The hill is famous for its dramatic limestone caves and the cairn that crowns its summit, both central to the area’s archaeology and mythology.
The walk to the caves is well signposted and surprisingly short — around 15 minutes from the trailhead. It begins by crossing private farmland via a new set of steps. After crossing the field, pass through a small gate (always keep it closed) and turn left to follow the path uphill.
A short, steep climb brings you to a right‑hand turn. From here, wooden steps lead onto a steep grassy slope where care is needed, especially in wet conditions. At the base of the limestone cliffs on the western side of the hill lie 17 caves, carved over millennia. The largest is Cormac’s Cave, linked to the legend of Cormac Mac Art, said to have been born here and raised by a she‑wolf before becoming High King of Ireland.
Archaeological excavations in the early 20th century uncovered a remarkable range of animal bones — including hare, brown bear, red deer, Arctic lemming, and wolf — as well as artefacts and human remains, confirming long‑standing human activity at the site.
At the summit of Keshcorran stands another Neolithic cairn, part of the wider upland megalithic cemetery that includes the famous Carrowkeel passage tombs. Together, these monuments form one of Ireland’s most significant prehistoric landscapes.
Distance: 1km linear walk
Track: fields/mountain track
Ascent: 60m
Visitor facilities: Car Park, picnic area
The walk to the caves is well signposted and surprisingly short — around 15 minutes from the trailhead. It begins by crossing private farmland via a new set of steps. After crossing the field, pass through a small gate (always keep it closed) and turn left to follow the path uphill.
A short, steep climb brings you to a right‑hand turn. From here, wooden steps lead onto a steep grassy slope where care is needed, especially in wet conditions. At the base of the limestone cliffs on the western side of the hill lie 17 caves, carved over millennia. The largest is Cormac’s Cave, linked to the legend of Cormac Mac Art, said to have been born here and raised by a she‑wolf before becoming High King of Ireland.
Archaeological excavations in the early 20th century uncovered a remarkable range of animal bones — including hare, brown bear, red deer, Arctic lemming, and wolf — as well as artefacts and human remains, confirming long‑standing human activity at the site.
At the summit of Keshcorran stands another Neolithic cairn, part of the wider upland megalithic cemetery that includes the famous Carrowkeel passage tombs. Together, these monuments form one of Ireland’s most significant prehistoric landscapes.
Distance: 1km linear walk
Track: fields/mountain track
Ascent: 60m
Visitor facilities: Car Park, picnic area
Location
|
|
|