Castlegale Loop Walk

You will ascend this trail to reach the cairn of stones known as Castle Gale. According to a local story passed down through generations, tenants in this area would hoist a flag atop this pile of stones to inform others that the local landlord was in the process of collecting rent.

Keep an eye out for the Holy Well. Legend has it that a local woman once washed her clothes in this well and the next time she returned to the spot where the well had been it had magically moved to the other side of the trail where it remains to this day!

The Bridge at Darragh was the site of the Battle of Darragh in 1798 in which the North Cork Militia fought the United Irish Men. A memorial plaque can be seen on the bridge.

The word 'Darragh' comes from the Irish 'Dearg' and is thought to refer to the colour of the oak trees in the area

Distance: 7 km

Time: 1hr30mins - 2hrs

Trail start point: Darragh Bridge, Darragh, Co Limerick

Trail type: Forestry roads, woodland paths

Difficulty: Moderate

Trail Guide: Download the Castlegale Loop Walk Guide here

Moderate Grade Definition: Will include predominantly Class 3 trails but can include sections of Class 1, Class 2 or Class 4 Trails (typically for no more than 30% of the route distance). Overall the route will have rough underfoot conditions and may include uphill sections taking up to 10 minutes to walk.

Moderate Trails are Suitable For: People with a moderate level of fitness. Specific outdoor walking footwear and clothing required