Doonane – Keeper Hill Forest & Trails

Overview

Doonane forest sits at the eastern edge of the Silvermine Mountains, bordered by the Doonane River. Managed by Coillte, this mixed-species woodland of beech, larch, spruce, ash and pine serves as the main access point for Keeper Hill (locally known as Sliabh Coimeálta). At 694 metres, it is the highest summit in the Shannon region. The area is roughly 7 km north-east of Newport and 17 km south-west of Limerick City, making it a straightforward day trip from either town.

Walking Trails

The forest hosts three marked routes, each designed for different fitness levels and time commitments:

• Ballyhourigan Woods Loop – A 9 km circuit that winds through the mixed woodland. The path passes the historic sweathouse and two archaeological markers, with several clearings offering views down to the Doonane River. It is suitable for families with older children and casual walkers.
• Keeper Hill Trek – An 8.2 km route for experienced hill-walkers. Starting from the Doonane trailhead, the path climbs steep gullies, crosses the locally named ‘Spout’ waterfall, and ascends to the summit. The climb involves roughly 800 m of elevation gain. From the top, you get panoramic views across the Shannon basin, the Slieve Felim Mountains, and Lough Derg on clear days.
• Slieve Felim Way – A 43 km long-distance trail that passes through Doonane on its route from Murroe to Silvermines. You can walk the Doonane section as a standalone day hike or link it to other segments for a multi-day trek.

Wildlife & Nature

Doonane is designated as a Special Protection Area (SPA), primarily to conserve the hen harrier. Males are easy to spot with their white-silver plumage and black wingtips, while females have brown feathers with a white rump. Spring (March to May) is the breeding season, making early mornings or late afternoons the best times to watch them soar over the upland heath. The woods also support red-kites, buzzards, and a range of summer songbirds. Because the habitat is protected, staying on marked paths is essential.

History & The Stone Sweathouse

While the forest is largely natural, it holds traces of older land use. Close to the main forest road stands a stone sweathouse, a therapeutic structure dating to the 18th century. Villagers historically used these buildings for dry-heat steam cures, particularly after hard physical labour or during the colder months. The stone walls remain intact and make for a striking photograph, especially when autumn mist settles over the river. Two modest archaeological markers along the Ballyhourigan Woods Loop also hint at the area’s longer human history.

Getting There & Facilities

Access is via the R497 road. From Newport, follow signs for “Doonane Forest” and turn left onto the local road after the first kilometre. A small, free car-park is located at the trailhead. Larger vehicles and buses should use the lay-by on the main road.

Public transport options are limited but available: Bus Éireann route 332 runs between Limerick and Newport, dropping passengers a short walk from the forest entrance. Cyclists can approach via the R497, which connects to the wider Limerick-Tipperary Greenway network.

On-site facilities are basic but functional:

• Information board – Route maps, difficulty ratings, and wildlife notes
• Trail signage – Purple and red arrows mark the longer routes; red arrows indicate the summit path
• Picnic area – A bench and waste bin near the trailhead
• Refreshments – No café on site; grab supplies in Newport (7 km away)

A downloadable PDF trail map is available from Coillte: download map.

Practical Tips

• Dogs – Allowed but must be kept on a lead, particularly during the hen-harrier breeding season (March–May) to avoid disturbing ground-nesting birds.
• Weather – Upland conditions change quickly. Waterproof layers, sturdy footwear, and a physical map are essential, as mobile signal drops on the summit.
• Best times to visit – Spring offers the best birdwatching. Summer provides longer daylight for the summit trek. Autumn brings dramatic mist and colour to the sweathouse and river valleys. Winter hikes require caution due to potential ice on the upper slopes.
• Nearby stops – Pair your visit with Devil’s Bit Mountain to the north-west for more hill-walking, or the medieval monuments at the Rock of Cashel, a 30-minute drive away. Detailed information on the wider woodland network is available at Ballyhourigan Loop and Woods.

For current trail conditions or seasonal updates, check the Coillte website. The free car-park fills quickly on summer weekends, so an early start is recommended if you plan to tackle the full summit route.