Overview
Glenkeel (Irish: An Gleann Caol) sits in the south‑west corner of the civil parish of Boho, within the Fermanagh and Omagh district of Northern Ireland. At an elevation of 708 ft the valley provides sweeping views of the surrounding Sperrin foothills, Cuilcagh’s Stairway to Heaven and, on clear days, Lough Neagh. The townland is split into several sub‑townlands – Carrickaphreghaun, Carricknaboll, Cloghernavea, Lough Acrottan, Teeroe and Tullyveeny – each preserving a slice of the region’s agricultural heritage, including the still‑practised tradition of peat cutting.
History & Background
The name Glenkeel has been recorded as An Gleann Caol (the narrow glen) and, according to older folklore, may also reference a legendary serpent that roamed the area until Saint Patrick’s intervention. Historically the hill that crowns the townland, Glenkeel Hill (373 m / 1 224 ft), appears in several early texts, underscoring its long‑standing prominence as a landmark for shepherds and farmers. The surrounding landscape is dotted with remnants of the 17th‑century Plantation, most notably the ruins of Monea Castle, built in 1616 and later damaged in the 1641 rebellion.
What to See & Do
Natural attractions
- Reydaf‑Glenkeel cave system – Part of a larger karst network, the caves showcase classic limestone formations and underground streams. Full exploration requires specialist equipment, but the entrance area can be admired from nearby walking routes.
- Pollnagollum Cave and Waterfall – A short drive from the townland, this cave (meaning Hole of the Dove) is fed by a tumbling waterfall that drops over a limestone cliff. The site is noted for slippery rock surfaces; sturdy footwear and a headlamp are advisable for those venturing inside.
- Glenkeel Hill & Glenkeel Top – The 417 m summit is marked by a cairn and offers panoramic vistas of the Sperrin Mountains and Lough Neagh. The ascent from Glenkeel Road is a moderate 6.5 km walk, taking roughly 2½ hours and crossing grassy slopes with occasional boggy patches.
- Cliffs of Magho – A short drive north brings you to a viewpoint over Lough Erne, complete with picnic benches, bins and an information board.
- Carrick Lough – A tranquil 9‑acre lake popular with anglers (pike, perch, bream, roach) and ideal for a lakeside picnic.
Historic sites
- Monea Castle Ruins – Free to visit, the castle opens 09:00‑17:00 Monday to Friday. The ruins give a tangible sense of the Plantation era and are easily accessible from the main road.
- Peat‑cutting heritage – Walks through the townland often pass old peat‑cutting sites, offering insight into a once‑vital rural industry.
Accommodation
- Glenkeel Cottage – A renovated three‑bedroom self‑catering cottage perched at the top of the valley. It sleeps six, features a solid‑fuel stove, en‑suite bathrooms and floor‑to‑ceiling windows that frame the surrounding hills. The cottage is a short 20‑minute drive from Bundoran’s beaches and a 30‑minute drive from Sligo, Benbulben and the Marble Arch Caves.
Practical Information
Getting there
- By car – The most convenient approach is via the Glenkeel Road, which offers a small parking area at the road’s entrance (suitable for a handful of vehicles). Arriving early in the morning secures a spot.
- Public transport – The nearest regular bus service stops in Draperstown, about 10 km away. From there, a taxi or a short drive completes the journey.
Facilities
- Nearby services – Draperstown provides cafés, public toilets and a post office, useful for a post‑hike refreshment.
- Cottage amenities – Glenkeel Cottage includes a fully equipped kitchen, solid‑fuel stove for cosy evenings and en‑suite bathrooms. A mid‑week special (Monday‑Thursday) offers €100 per night with a minimum three‑night stay, available in March and April.
Opening hours & fees
| Attraction | Opening Hours | Admission |
|---|---|---|
| Monea Castle Ruins | 09:00‑17:00 Mon‑Fri | Free |
| Glenkeel Cottage (self‑catering) | Self‑check‑in any time | €100 per night Mon‑Thu (min 3 nights) |
Accessibility
- Monea Castle Ruins – Ground‑level stone walls; uneven surfaces may be challenging for wheelchair users.
- Pollnagollum Cave – Not wheelchair accessible; the interior can be slippery and is best suited to confident walkers with proper caving gear.
- Glenkeel Top trail – Mostly grassy with occasional boggy sections; suitable for hikers of moderate fitness.
Contact & booking
- Glenkeel Cottage – Phone: +353 862 140667. More details and booking information are available on the Leitrim Tourism page.
- Monea Castle – No on‑site staff; access is unrestricted during opening hours.
Safety notes
- The hill and cave areas can experience rapid weather changes; fog and rain may reduce visibility.
- When exploring the cave system, carry a reliable light source, helmet and a basic first‑aid kit.
- Keep an eye out for grazing sheep on the summit – they often wander near the cairn.
Exploring Further
From Glenkeel you can easily reach a network of walking, cycling and running routes curated on platforms such as Komoot. Popular loops include the Gravel Path by the Lake, the Kingfisher Cycle Trail – Northern Loop, and a series of easy 4‑5 km running tracks that weave through the Culeigh Lakelands Geopark. For the more adventurous, longer mountain‑bike routes venture towards the Caha Mountains and beyond.
Nearby Attractions
- Boho – A neighbouring village renowned for its dramatic limestone landscape, ancient stone circles and the Boho Caves. (Boho)
- Cladagh Glen – A scenic ancient woodland walk that follows the Cladagh River, offering tranquil forest paths and wildlife spotting opportunities. (Cladagh Glen)
- Aghalurcher – Historic ruins and a sacred graveyard set amidst rolling farmland, providing a glimpse into early Christian Ireland. (Aghalurcher)