Castlegale Loop

Castlegale Loop
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You will ascend this trail to reach the cairn of stones known as Castle Gale. According to a local story passed down through generations, tenants in this area would hoist a flag atop this pile of stones to inform others that the local landlord was in the process of collecting rent.

Keep an eye out for the Holy Well. Legend has it that a local woman once washed her clothes in this well and the next time she returned to the spot where the well had been it had magically moved to the other side of the trail where it remains to this day!

The Bridge at Darragh was the site of the Battle of Darragh in 1798 in which the North Cork Militia fought the United Irish Men. A memorial plaque can be seen on the bridge.

The word 'Darragh' comes from the Irish 'Dearg' and is thought to refer to the colour of the oak trees in the area

Distance: 7km

Total ascent: 220m

Trail marking colour: Green

Time: 1.5 - 2hrs

Trail type: Forestry roads, woodland paths

Difficulty: Moderate

These trails may have some climbs and may have an uneven surface where the going is rough underfoot with some obstacles such as protruding roots, rocks etc. The routes are appropriate for people with a moderate level of fitness and some walking experience. Specific outdoor walking footwear and clothing are recommended.

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

Dogs: allowed on leash

Trail start point: Darragh Bridge, Darragh, Co Limerick

Trail format: Loop

Grid reference of start point: R 72319 17489

Nearest town: Kilfinane 6.5km

OSI Discovery Series map sheet number: Sheet No 73

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

Download Ballyhoura Trails Guide App - your personal guide to the loop walks of Ballyhoura Country!

Download Castlegale Loop Guide

Suitable for:

Walkers & Hikers Groups
Location Enquire

You will ascend this trail to reach the cairn of stones known as Castle Gale. According to a local story passed down through generations, tenants in this area would hoist a flag atop this pile of stones to inform others that the local landlord was in the process of collecting rent.

Keep an eye out for the Holy Well. Legend has it that a local woman once washed her clothes in this well and the next time she returned to the spot where the well had been it had magically moved to the other side of the trail where it remains to this day!

The Bridge at Darragh was the site of the Battle of Darragh in 1798 in which the North Cork Militia fought the United Irish Men. A memorial plaque can be seen on the bridge.

The word 'Darragh' comes from the Irish 'Dearg' and is thought to refer to the colour of the oak trees in the area

Distance: 7km

Total ascent: 220m

Trail marking colour: Green

Time: 1.5 - 2hrs

Trail type: Forestry roads, woodland paths

Difficulty: Moderate

These trails may have some climbs and may have an uneven surface where the going is rough underfoot with some obstacles such as protruding roots, rocks etc. The routes are appropriate for people with a moderate level of fitness and some walking experience. Specific outdoor walking footwear and clothing are recommended.

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

Dogs: allowed on leash

Trail start point: Darragh Bridge, Darragh, Co Limerick

Trail format: Loop

Grid reference of start point: R 72319 17489

Nearest town: Kilfinane 6.5km

OSI Discovery Series map sheet number: Sheet No 73

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

Download Ballyhoura Trails Guide App - your personal guide to the loop walks of Ballyhoura Country!

Download Castlegale Loop Guide

Suitable for:

Walkers & Hikers Groups