Finvarra's Trail
A 1 km stretch emerges onto exposed carboniferous limestone pavement, its clints and grykes likened to the Burren and said to be gateways to the otherworld. Benches here face the best of the views.
Knockma Wood
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About
Knockma, the legendary Hill of Maeve, rises above native woodland near Belclare in east Galway, where a short loop of forest track leads to Bronze Age cairns, Burren-like limestone and one of Ireland's grandest panoramas.
Things to Do
Fairy doors and folklore
Knockma is the legendary home of Finvarra, king of the Connacht fairies. Children can hunt the fairy doors hidden in the woods, and there is even a fairy school to find, which makes the walk a good family outing.
The summit cairns and panoramic views
A 4.2 km loop climbs from the car park to the hilltop, where two Bronze Age cairns are said to be the tombs of Queen Maeve and Ceasair. From the top you get one of Ireland's grandest panoramas, stretching towards Galway Bay and the Burren.
Forest Loop
The longest section of the loop, 3.6 km, starts at the car park and climbs a tree-covered road into native woodland of hazel, oak and ash. Watch for fairy doors at the base of the trees.
Avenue Loop
A 2 km out-and-back branch off the main loop that leads away from the hill and back again, with countryside views and a look towards the Finvarra Castle tower.
Castlehacket tower and the Kelly memorial
Just past the car park stands Castlehacket tower house, a landmark at the start of the route. Finvarra's Trail also passes a memorial to Colonel Patrick Kelly, a Civil War officer born near Knockma.
Plan Your Visit
- Hours: Open all year round.
- Admission: Free to enter — there is no admission charge.
- Parking: Free car park at the trailhead, where the trails start and a map and information boards are posted. Coming from Castlehacket House, the car park is about 100 m up the R333 on the right.
- Food: There is no café or food on site — bring your own water and snacks.
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