Clondonnell Loop Walk

Entirely on tarmac, this walk avails of the scenic minor road that stretches south-west towards the Comeraghs before winding its way back again to join the R678. As road walks go, the first half of this ramble is as scenic as any you will find anywhere, the route set against the backdrop of Knockanaffrin Ridge which can resemble a scene from the Alps at times during winter.

Walk Directions

A-B From Rathgormack Hiking Centre turn right out of the village and take the first turn left (south). Just 200 metres down this minor road you pass the gap in the ditch on your right behind which can be seen the reputed beheading stone of the Powers, medieval lords of Rathgormack. Keep right at the junction a short distance later. All the while, the grandeur of the mountains is apparent. On the far left Crotty’s Rock towers above the coum also named after the 18th century robber. A little further right is Coum Iarthar or “The Boolas”. The dip in the mountain is the Gap and the serrated ridge beyond, Knockanaffrin. Coumduala can be made out to the left of the forestry. The high point above is Knockanaffrin itself, and, hidden below to the right, Lough Mohra. After about 1.5 kilometres the road starts to meander along Cloch na gCeann the banks of the Clodiagh. Enjoy this serene place. Pick up the sights, sounds and smells of nature. The heron is a regular visitor along the river here. Pass off the turn for Graigavalla on your left and continue on to Graigavalla Bridge.

B-C At this point the road leaves the river. Soon it swings south and you seem to be heading straight into the Gap. A kilometre later it’s the morainic dammed Lough Coumduala and Knockanaffrin Ridge that loom large. There seems to be more grass than tarmac now. Wonderful!

C-D About 2.5 kilometres from Graigavalla Bridge the road swings dramatically right in Curraheen townland (C). A boreen on the left leads to a good starting point for hillwalking expeditions to Coumduala, the Boolas and the Gap. Continuing on the road brings you to Clondonnell and your eye is drawn upward towards dramatic Carrigsheegowna (much of the 1975 film, Barry Lyndon, was shot here), protruding from Knockanaffrin Ridge, and the verdant slopes of Croney Hill further right.

D-A Approx 3 kilometres from the Curraheen bend you reach the R678 (D). Turn right now and take care on the last 3 kilometres back to the village.