Giant's Grave Loop

Hike: The Giant’s Grave Loop, in Cadamstown, Offaly. One of several short circuits along the three-day Slieve Bloom Way, this walk crosses a mixture of river bank, forest track and open farmland, with an archaeological site thrown in for good measure. From the trailhead, follow the red arrows east along the road for 1km, then use an old laneway to reach grassy pastures ahead. Another stretch of country lane brings you to the Giant’s Grave, a megalithic tomb said to be the resting place of the warrior Bladhma, after whom the Slieve Blooms are named. Woodland paths and forest tracks carry you over Spink Mountain, then a final, delightful stretch along the bank of Silver River carries you back to the start.

Start and Finish at: Cadamstown trailhead, beside Dempsy’s pub.

Get there: Cadamstown is located along the R241, around 20km southwest of Tullamore.

Level: Moderate — signed paths, tracks and old laneways.

Length / Time: 11km / 2½-3 hours.

Pack: A map and route notes downloaded from slievebloom.ie, plus your social side if you want to join one of the regular guided walks.

Refuel at: Nearby Kinnity Castle (kinnittycastlehotel.com). Treat yourself to a post-hike meal in 13th-century splendour (book ahead) or try their ‘Antisocial Cafe’.

More: Find the 25 best walks in Ireland at our Irish walking hub!