Overview
Lough-an-Leagh (Irish Lough an Leighis, the “Lake of the Cures”) is named for a lake you can’t see: a shallow, mineral-rich pool that once sat in a hollow near the summit and was reckoned to heal. It drained long ago, but the name and the reputation stuck. The ridge itself rises to 344 m (1,119 ft) between Bailieborough and Kingscourt, off the R165, and its draw is the view – on a clear day, people at the top count as many as fourteen counties.
The area is stewarded by the volunteer-run Lough-an-Leagh Heritage Trust, which maintains the paths, protects archaeological features, and produces local walking leaflets. There is no entrance fee, and the ridge is accessible throughout the year, making it a reliable stop for day walkers, birdwatchers, and those seeking quiet open space.
Walking the Ridge
The Trust maintains several waymarked routes; the main Lough an Leagh loop is about 7 km, graded moderate, and takes most walkers between two and three hours. The terrain shifts between compacted mountain paths, forest tracks and open heathland. Sturdy footwear helps, as the stony sections and exposed roots get greasy after wet weather.
The route runs from the car park near the summit picnic area, following clear signage through a mix of managed woodland and open moorland. Where the path forks, a right-hand turn leads to the main viewing bench and triangulation pillar, while a left continues toward the forested western flank. It’s broadly manageable for older children and families, though the open stretches catch the wind. Rest spots are spaced along the way, and the tree line offers some shelter when it’s blowing.
For navigation, the Trust’s printed leaflets (available at the car park and local heritage centres) are highly recommended. Mobile signal can be patchy across the ridge, so downloading a map or carrying a physical copy ensures you stay on track.
Ancient Stones & Local Legends
Three stone-age cairns anchor the archaeological significance of Lough-an-Leagh, each registered on the National Monuments Register. Moyer Cairn sits at the highest point, marked by a concrete Ordnance Survey pillar. Corraweelis Cairn lies to the south-south-west, partially cloaked in heather, while Mohercrom is tucked into the western forest and requires a short detour to locate. All three are protected; visitors are asked to stay on marked paths and avoid moving stones or digging near the monuments.
Local folklore adds another layer to the landscape. Tradition holds that a Cailleach (divine hag) dropped stones from her apron to form the cairns, while a Penal Times story tells of a priest who concealed a Mass chalice in the now-vanished summit lake. The waters were later said to carry healing properties, possibly explaining the “Lake of the Cures” name. A local tale also speaks of a magical hare that appears at dusk along the ridge, a motif that ties into wider Irish hill-walking folklore where animals serve as guides or omens.
Seasonal Traditions
Lough-an-Leagh stays woven into local life. Each year Bilberry Sunday – the second Sunday of July, though some hold it a week later – draws foragers up to pick the wild bilberries on the slopes, a custom rooted in the old Lughnasa harvest festival.
A historic Mass Rock near the summit continues to host an Easter Dawn Mass, offering a quiet, reflective experience against the early morning light. For those planning a visit around these events, note that parking and foot traffic increase noticeably, so arriving early is advisable.
Practical Information
- Access & Parking: Follow signed routes to the Lough-an-Leagh car park from the Bailieborough–Kingscourt road (R165). The turn-off is narrow in places, so allow extra time for larger vehicles. Parking is free and located near the main trailhead and picnic area.
- Facilities: Two picnic tables, a viewing bench, and interpretive panels detailing geology, archaeology, and folklore are provided at the summit. There are no toilets, shop facilities, or permanent visitor centre on-site.
- Weather & Safety: The ridge is fully exposed to wind and sudden weather changes. Layered clothing, a waterproof jacket, and sun protection are essential. The cairns are fragile archaeological sites; please respect preservation notices and avoid climbing on or disturbing the stones.
- Getting There: Public transport options are limited but serviceable. Bus routes connect nearby towns, and local taxi operators can arrange pickup from the summit. Check timetables in advance, as return services may be infrequent in the evenings.
- Nearby Stops: After your walk, Bailieborough offers pubs, cafés, and accommodation within a short drive. For more geological walks, the Cavan Burren Park lies nearby, while the Castle Lake walk provides a gentler alternative for families.
Bring a charged phone for navigation and enough water for the round trip, and check the Trust’s leaflets for seasonal notes. Go on a clear, still day if you can – the fourteen-county view is the whole point, and the ridge is fully exposed the moment the weather turns.