Directions to the Trailhead
Starting in Ballymote, take the R295 towards Boyle. After approximately 7.5km turn left just before the Eastern Harps GAA pitch. This will bring you to St. Kevin’s RC Church, where roadside parking is available. Note that parts of this route are along a public road and that care is required along the route.
The Trail Map:- OSI Map Series 25
The Route
Walk from the carpark along the road parallel to Keshcorran Mountain, which is to your right. Pass through a kissing gate at the entrance to the walk proper, walk through the field and follow the path to the Caves. Note that sections of the climb (which is short) are relatively steep and that some steps have been installed to help the walker through this section.
*We recommed that you excerise care when walking along the brow of the hill as this is a steep incline and the grass can sometimes be slippery underfoot, particularly after rainfall. Walking boots are recomended.
Mythology of the Caves of Keash
The Caves of Keash are embedded into the flanks of Keshcorran Mountain, which itself is capped by a large un-opened cairn. This is known locally as the Pinnacle, and can be seen from many parts of Co. Sligo.
Seventeen caves are located on the western side of the mountain. The hill and it’s surroundings feature in a number of legendary tales including a story that tells of the birth of Cormac Mac Airt. Tradition says that Cormac Mac Airt was the most famous of the legendary kings of Ireland and was born at a well beneath the caves. His mother had given birth to him while trying to escape from Lughaidh Mac Conn who had killed her husband. While they lay sleeping baby Cormac was carried off by a wolf whose den was in a cave now known as Cormac’s cave. Cormac was discovered years later playing on all fours outside the caves with wolf cubs. Cormac went on to become a famous High King of Ireland.
Did you know?
Keshcorran is the highest hill in the Bricklieve/Curlew area and the 894th highest in Ireland. Keshcorran is the most northerly summit in the Bricklieve/Curlew area and also the most westerly.
- Plan ahead and Prepare
- Dispose of waste properly
- Leave what you find
- Respect wildlife and farm stock
- Be considerate of others
- Minimise the effects of fire
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