The-MacGiolla-Phádraig-Way-Walk
Walkers on Cullohill Mountain, part of the MacGiollaphádraig Way Walk

South Laois Tourism invite you to the MacGiollaphadraig Way (17Km linear walk) on Easter Monday starting at 12noon in Durrow and concluding in Gathabawn. The trail brings you on sections of public road, forestry road, private lane and farmland. Starting at the car park Durrow the walk takes out along the Derry road where you meet a steep incline onto the Ballagh Hill from where a section of forestry road brings you to Ballykealy. You will now encounter another steady incline on private lane that offers beautiful scenery as you make your way to Cullahill Mountain. This particular location offers spectacular views leading to the Commeragh, Galtee, Slieve Bloom and Blackstairs Mountains also at this point a monument bush stands to commemorate the spot where legend has it that Cormac MacGiollaphadraig was slain by Cromwells men.

This area holds memories of another time with many old derelict dwellings dotted throughout. RTE”s John Murray accompanied by Nationwide and over 2,000 followers held one of his popular walks here on Cullahill Mountain on Sunday 14th April 2013. You are now on the concluding stages of the walk as you pass through Ballygooney while Coolcashin Graveyard is on your left as you approach the picturesque village of Gathabawn nestled between the hills. This area is also home to the famous racehorse Limestone Lad. At the conclusion of the walk refreshments are available in Mackey’s Bar. Registration at 11.30am is €5 which includes you in the Easter raffle. A bus will be available throughout the day to assist walkers. More information on www.southlaoistourism.com online.