Overview
The Slieve Felim Mountains form a low-lying but striking range straddling County Limerick and County Tipperary in the heart of Munster. Rather than soaring peaks, the landscape unfolds as a patchwork of heather-capped ridges, mixed-wood plantations and quiet valleys. To the south, the waters of Lough Derg shimmer on the horizon, while the River Shannon cuts a broad valley to the north. It is a peaceful, largely uncrowded destination that rewards walkers with sweeping vistas, ancient geology and a strong sense of local history.
The Slieve Felim Way
The flagship attraction is the Slieve Felim Way, a 43 km (27 mile) National Waymarked Trail that links the village of Murroe with the historic mining settlement of Silvermines. Graded as moderate, the route is comfortably split into two days of walking, though experienced hikers can cover it in a single long day. The trail is open year-round and clearly signposted with yellow arrows on a black background.
From Murroe, the path leads past the grounds of Glenstal Abbey, a Benedictine monastery set among mature plantations. The trail then climbs gently through forestry tracks and open heathland, crossing quiet valleys and ridges. Mid-way, walkers pass through the small settlement of Toor, a useful spot for a rest or a quick refreshment. The final section descends into Silvermines, where the trail finishes near the River Silver, flanked by the quiet remnants of the area’s industrial past.
Landscape & Geology
Beneath the walking boots lies one of Ireland’s oldest landscapes. The Slieve Felim range is built from Ordovician rock formed around 450 million years ago, recording a period of intense volcanic activity that shaped much of the Irish midlands. The mix of rugged limestone, sandstone and volcanic outcrops gives the hills their distinctive, weather-worn profile.
This geology supports a rich variety of habitats. In late spring and summer, the uplands blaze with purple heather and yellow gorse, while oak and conifer plantations line the lower slopes. Birdwatchers frequently spot meadow pipits, skylarks, and occasional hen harriers riding the thermals above the ridges. The rivers and streams that drain the hills provide habitat for otters and kingfishers, while the higher ground supports a healthy population of butterflies and moths. Though not technically part of the Slieve Felim range, Keeper Hill (694 m) rises nearby and dominates the northern skyline, offering one of the best panoramic viewpoints in the mid-west.
History & Heritage
The Irish name Sliabh Eibhlinne translates to “mountains of Ébliu”, referring to an ancient goddess mentioned in the medieval Lebor Gabála Érenn. Legend tells of the Milesians meeting the goddess Fódla on these hills, a story that later merged with the male name Féilim to give the English form Slieve Felim.
Human history here runs deep. Scattered Bronze Age monuments, including ring barrows and bowl barrows, sit on the upland ridges, dating back over 4,000 years. The area also supported early iron-ore extraction from the 17th century onward, with lead and zinc mining flourishing in the 1800s. The village of Silvermines still bears the imprint of this industry, with old shafts and spoil heaps visible along the riverbanks.
Walkers will also encounter traces of 19th-century social history. Near the summit of Keeper Hill, the ruins of Carden’s Folly mark a former assembly point for anti-tithe meetings linked to Daniel O’Connell’s campaigns. In the surrounding valleys, the stone-walled remains of a pre-Famine hedge school can still be found near old farmsteads, a quiet reminder of Ireland’s educational heritage.
Practical Walking Tips
- Maps & Navigation: Pick up an Ordnance Survey Explorer map (sheet 71) from local shops or visitor information points. The trail is well-waymarked, but carrying a map is essential for exploring side paths or navigating in poor visibility.
- Footwear & Gear: Sturdy walking boots with good ankle support are recommended. Some sections, particularly in the valleys and near streams, can become boggy after rain. Waterproof clothing and a warm layer are essential year-round.
- Water & Facilities: Public toilets are available in Murroe, Toor and Silvermines. Natural water sources are not reliable for drinking, so carry sufficient supplies. There are no shops on the trail itself.
- Dogs: Dogs are welcome on the Waymarked Trail but must be kept on a lead at all times to protect livestock and wildlife.
- Leave No Trace: The heathland and gorse habitats are fragile. Stick to the marked path, pack out all litter, and avoid cutting through vegetation to shorten sections.
Getting There & Nearby
The trailheads in Murroe and Silvermines are accessible by car, with street parking available in both villages. A larger car park at the Upperchurch lookout provides space for day-trippers exploring the surrounding loops. Public transport options include regular bus services from Limerick City to Murroe, with Limerick Junction railway station located roughly 30 km to the north.
The Slieve Felim area sits within the wider Shannon region, making it easy to combine a hike with visits to nearby attractions. Glenstal Abbey offers guided tours and a tranquil garden, while boat trips on Lough Derg depart from Dromineer and Killaloe. For those looking to extend their walking holiday, the foothills connect to longer routes that eventually lead toward the coastal scenery of the Beara Peninsula.
Start early to make the most of the daylight, check local weather forecasts before heading out, and take your time on the ridges where the views over the Shannon Valley open up. The Slieve Felim Way is a quiet, rewarding route that brings together ancient rock, mining history and some of the mid-west’s finest walking terrain.