Mahon Falls

Mahon Falls
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About

An 80-metre cascade tucked into a glacial valley in the Comeragh Mountains — one of Ireland's most accessible waterfalls, reached by a short gravel path with sweeping views back towards Dungarvan and the sea.

Things to Do

Mahon Falls Walk (Short Trail)

The main event: a 2.5–3 km return walk from the car park along a well-surfaced gravel path. Takes 40–60 minutes at a gentle pace. The falls are visible from the moment you set off, and the path leads you right to the base of the cascade. Suitable for families and most fitness levels — just watch the wind and dress in layers.

Mahon Falls Walk (Short Trail)

Mahon Valley Loop (Longer Hike)

A 4.2 km loop with 321 m of elevation gain, taking 2–2.5 hours. The trail climbs past the falls onto rougher, boggy ground with rocky scrambles. Stunning views over the Mahon Valley and out to sea on clear days. Unmarked in places — download a map and wear waterproof boots. Best attempted in dry weather.

Mahon Valley Loop (Longer Hike)

The Magic Road

Just beside the car park, a stretch of road where an optical illusion makes cars appear to roll uphill. Stop, put the car in neutral, and watch the strange effect. A quirky 10-minute diversion that fascinates kids and adults alike.

The Magic Road

Wildlife & Nature Watching

The damp habitat around the falls supports Wilson's Filmy-fern and Fir Clubmoss. Look out for Wheatear, Siskin, Crossbill, and Meadow Pipit among the crags and conifer forests. Birds of prey including Peregrine Falcon, Buzzard, Kestrel, and Merlin patrol the wider Comeragh area. Red Squirrel and Pine Marten are also present.

Wildlife & Nature Watching

Photography & Stargazing

The valley's changing light and dramatic backdrop make it a favourite with photographers. On clear nights, low light pollution reveals an impressive starry sky — worth staying past sunset if conditions are right.

Photography & Stargazing

Plan Your Visit

  • Hours: Open year-round, 24 hours a day. No gates or closing times. Early mornings and weekdays are quieter.
  • Admission: Free — no entry fee or ticket required.
  • Parking: Free car park at the trailhead (Mahon Falls Car Park). Well signposted from Mahon Bridge off the R676. Overflow parking available a short walk down the road if the main car park is full.
  • Food: Crough Coffee in Mahon Bridge (about 4 km away) serves barista coffee, teas, homemade ice cream, sourdough toasties, and home-baked treats. Open 7 days, 9am–5pm. For a full meal, head to Dungarvan (25 min drive) for pubs and restaurants like The Tannery or Merry's gastropub.

Getting Around

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