Benard Loop

Anglesborough is the highest village on the Galtee Mountain range and is rich in history and culture. The trail begins at the village community centre where a plaque can be seen commemorating the strong rebel traditions in the area.

Before turning right for your ascent of Paradise Hill, you'll notice a tall monument standing on the roadside displaying the likeness of Liam Lynch, a commanding general of the Irish Republican Army during the War of Independence. He was born in the nearby townland of Barnagurraha and died in a gunbattle in the Knockmealdown Mountains in Clonmel in 1923.

Climb Paradise Hill by way of an old turf road where locals once used sleds to bring dried turf down from Temple Hill, which looms over walkers on this trail. After turning right to leave the Paradise Hill Loop and continue on the Benard Loop, follow the long section of forestry road where you will be rewarded halfway along by views of Knockaceol (Hill of Music).

Distance: 15km

Total ascent: 190m

Route waymark colour: Purple

Time: 4-5hrs

Nearest Town/Village: Anglesboro, Mitchelstown 12km

Trail start point: Community Centre, Anglesboro, Co. Limerick

Trail type: forest roads and boreens

Equipment required: Walking Boots, Rain Gear, liquids and phone

Difficulty: Strenuous

These are physically demanding trails, which will typically have some sections with steep climbs for long periods and the going underfoot can be extremely rough including many obstacles. Suitable for users accustomed to walking on rough ground and with a high level of fitness. Specific outdoor walking footwear and clothing required.

Dogs: No dogs allowed

Livestock: Caution livestock on route

OSI Discovery Series map sheet number: Sheet No 74

Remember Leave No Trace, plan ahead and prepare. Be considerate of others. Respect Farm Animals and Wildlife. Travel and Camp on Durable Ground. Leave what you Find. Dispose of waste properly. Fires not allowed.

Emergency Contact Numbers: 999 or 112

This loop has been developed with the kind assistance of the local Landowners and Coillte. It is understood that if persons enter private land they do so by permission and with the consent of the landowners and no matter how often they enter, or in what numbers, they do not do so with any rights

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• Contact: Ballyhoura Heritage & Environment CLG, Main Street, Kilfinane, Co Limerick
• Community Centre, Anglesborough, County Limerick, Ireland
• +353 63 91300
• [email protected]