Darby's Bed Walk Loop

Darby's Bed Walk Loop
Enquire

This loop which starts and finishes in the village of Galbally - at the heart of Ballyhoura Country - takes you to a high point of 265m north-west of the village. Here there is a megalithic passage grave known as the Fort of the Three Pillar Stones. The fort is estimated to be 6,000 years old and is known locally as 'Darby's Bed'.

After a short walk along the road out of the village, you'll enter the trail proper on your left. As you follow the trail, you'll notice white signs directing you to a passage tomb. Follow these to divert from the trail briefly and visit this historic site- remember to return to the white sign to continue the loop.

The tomb has a long almost inaccessible entrance passage, and the roof rises likes steps to the top of its chamber and is regarded as being similar to megalithic tombs in Brittany, France. The entrance passage faces north-west in line with the midsummer sunset. According to fable and folklore, it is believed that it is the grave of Olill Olum, who was one of the early kings of Munster.

Distance: 7km

Total ascent: 190m

Waymarking arrow colour: Purple

Time: 2hrs 30 mins

Trail start point: Galbally in Co. Limerick

Trail type: Green paths, forestry roads and tracks

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 needed: Walking Boots, Rain Gear, liquids and phone

Start point: The Square, Galbally Village

Grid reference of start point: R 79913 27778

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 Darby's Bed Loop Guide

Suitable for:

Walkers & Hikers
Location Enquire

This loop which starts and finishes in the village of Galbally - at the heart of Ballyhoura Country - takes you to a high point of 265m north-west of the village. Here there is a megalithic passage grave known as the Fort of the Three Pillar Stones. The fort is estimated to be 6,000 years old and is known locally as 'Darby's Bed'.

After a short walk along the road out of the village, you'll enter the trail proper on your left. As you follow the trail, you'll notice white signs directing you to a passage tomb. Follow these to divert from the trail briefly and visit this historic site- remember to return to the white sign to continue the loop.

The tomb has a long almost inaccessible entrance passage, and the roof rises likes steps to the top of its chamber and is regarded as being similar to megalithic tombs in Brittany, France. The entrance passage faces north-west in line with the midsummer sunset. According to fable and folklore, it is believed that it is the grave of Olill Olum, who was one of the early kings of Munster.

Distance: 7km

Total ascent: 190m

Waymarking arrow colour: Purple

Time: 2hrs 30 mins

Trail start point: Galbally in Co. Limerick

Trail type: Green paths, forestry roads and tracks

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 needed: Walking Boots, Rain Gear, liquids and phone

Start point: The Square, Galbally Village

Grid reference of start point: R 79913 27778

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 Darby's Bed Loop Guide

Suitable for:

Walkers & Hikers