Castlefreke – Rathbarry – Kilkeran Loop

This moderate loop is a lovely, off-road, varied walk along forest tracks and gravelled footpaths around the old demesne of Castlefreke. Enjoy mixed woodland, a reed-fringed lakeshore, views of castles and lodges, ruined churches and Ireland’s tallest high cross, as well as magnificent views of Long Strand with its extensive dunes, Galley Head with its lighthouse, and the distant Stags. The short climb to the high cross is well worth the effort to see the intricately-carved, early twentieth-century monument and the spectacular views of the Atlantic and the surrounding countryside. On your descent to the car park look out for Lough Rahavarrig, a coastal lagoon, which once had a navigable channel from Rathbarry Castle to Long Strand. Nature has since reclaimed it and is an area of high conservation value.