A family-run visitor centre and campsite at the foot of Loughcrew's 5,200-year-old passage tombs, gateway to Sliabh na Cailli — the Mountain of the Witch — in the Boyne Valley, one hour from Dublin.
From the centre's car park a short but steep walk climbs Carnbane East to the cairns; wear sturdy footwear as it can be slippery in wet weather. The hill is open all day and free to walk. 32 cairns spread over four hills; Cairn T sits at 276 m, the highest point in Meath, with views across parts of at least 18 counties on a clear day.
The 1–1.5 hour guided walking tour leaves the centre and climbs to Cairn T, covering Neolithic history, megalithic art, sun alignments and the folklore of the Hag's Chair. Cost is €60 for 1–2 people and €6 per extra person; book by emailing [email protected].
Around 21 March and 23 September the rising sun illuminates the decorated back stone of Cairn T. The OPW opens the cairn before dawn and visitors queue in small groups; arrive about 45 minutes before sunrise. The centre serves breakfast at sunrise and offers accommodation from €10 per night.
Choose between tent pitches, campervan/caravan hardstanding berths with electric hook-up, or luxury yurts sleeping up to five with wood-burning stoves. It's a family site with a playground, games room (pool, fussball, air hockey), camper's kitchen and a quiet time of 11pm.
A 1700s thatched heritage cottage in the courtyard museum shows traditional Irish cottage life, with antique furniture and audiovisual stories from a past inhabitant. Benny's Workshop next door hosts yoga, talks and craft events.
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