A county known for its abundance of curious drumlins and placid lakes, The Cavan Way is a gentle day-long trail. It covers a mix of country and riverside paths, quiet roads, karst terrain and open moorland.
From Dowra, the trail leads you to the serene Shannon Pot - the very source of Ireland’s longest river. A mainly moderate route, the road sections near the trail’s start and by the Shannon Pot can be very busy.
From here the route ascends over the northern Cuilcagh Mountains’ impressive limestone landscape. These limestone heights showcase marvellous views over stunning Lough Macnean Upper and Lower.
The trail then descends down towards pretty Blacklion village. The route’s aggregate ascent is just 330m and includes two short, steep climbs.
Both Dowra and Blacklion offer walkers plenty of places to stop, refresh and refuel after this pleasant trail.
Trail details
- Type:
- Long Distance Waymarked Way
- Location:
- Dowra Blacklion
- Grade:
- Moderate
- Format:
- Linear
- Length:
- 21.70km
- Ascent:
- 330m
- Dogs allowed:
- No
At Start - on street in Dowra or in car park at Mart
At End - on street in Blacklion
pubs, accommodation nearby
- The Cavan Way is located in the heart of the Marble Arch Caves Global Geopark.
- The uphill Burren landscape treats walkers to awe-inspiring views of the Cuilcagh mountain range and its swathes of blanket bog.
- The Cavan Way’s highest point is the ancient passage tomb known as the Giant's Grave.
- The views over Lough Macnean Upper and Lower alone are ample reward for walkers on this lush, moderate trail.
Make sure and trek to the Giants Grave, standing at 850ft, the highest point on the Cavan Way.
