Both the UK and Ireland are full of stunning countryside walks and one route in County Tipperary leads to Rock of Cashe, a spectacular historic site.
Once the traditional seat of the kings of Munster, it was the location of the coronation of Brian Boru, the first High King of Ireland.
Heritage Ireland dubs the Rock of Cashel “one of Ireland’s most spectacular and – deservedly – most visited tourist attractions”.
The ‘High King Loop’, as the route is known, takes around two hours to complete and will take you through the Rock of Cashel, allowing you to explore both this historic site, and the surrounding beautiful countryside.
The route is popular with bird-watchers, cyclists, and runners but can also be enjoyed as a more leisurely stroll.
AllTrails say it’s best undertaken between January and October, making it a great hike to undertake sometime this year.
The site has labelled a ‘moderately’ difficult route, adding that it is also suitable for dog-walkers, although they should be sure to keep their canine on a lead.
Detailing the route walkers should take, the experts at AllTrails write: “Start in Cashel on Lower Gate Street/Square and head out the new tarmac pathway on the Golden Road. This will allow you to finish off the walk with the incredible views of Hore Abbey and The Rock of Cashel.”
Those who have already enjoyed this walk shared their thoughts on the website, with one writing: “A well marked mostly paved trail that goes through the woods for about a mile and brings you through beautiful farm land.
“Definitely would rate an easy flat trail if you aren’t into hiking this is a long beautiful scenic walk. I enjoyed my time even through the rain the whole way.”
Another added: “Great easy country walk. Well used trail and well maintained. Great views of the Rock of Cashel plus beautiful forest section. Quiet country roads. You can divert off to the Abbey and the Castle if you wish.”
The impressive Rock of Cashel is a cluster of medieval-era buildings. Although it dates back earlier, most of the structures still standing today date from the 12th and 13th centuries.
Today, you can still see a round tower, high cross, Romanesque chapel, Gothic cathedral, abbey, Hall of the Vicars Choral, and a fifteenth-century Tower House.
The site is mired in the history of Ireland, and the chapel, named Cormac’s Chapel for King Cormac Mac Carthaigh, contains the only surviving Romanesque frescoes in Ireland.
The Rock of Cashel also holds significance in the mythology of the island, with local legends claiming that it originated in the Devil’s Bit, a mountain 20 miles north where St Patrick is said to have banished the Devil from a cave, resulting in the rock landing in Cashel.
It’s also claimed to be the location at which St Patrick converted the King of Munster to Christianity.