The best walks and hikes around Rathkeelan

Unfortunately, the castle was under scaffolding at the time of our visit.

Rising above the surrounding landscape with its striking tower, St. Brigid's Church tells a story older than its walls suggest. Built between 1927 and 1932, it stands on the foundations of an earlier 18th century church, connecting the past with the present. The stone facades and ornate statues give the building a timeless aura that invites pause. As you walk across the square in front of the church, you feel a certain calm emanating from the old stones. Inside, you'll find a warm atmosphere, with light streaming through the colorful windows and the artistic design of the ceiling and altar. It's a place where you can not only admire the architecture, but also find a moment of reflection - a quiet companion on your walk through the area.

Along Glasdrumman Lough you walk along a calm body of water surrounded by green hills. The lake lies still and reflects the blue sky while the gentle waves break the sunlight. On one side of the road there is a sign telling you about the Poets' Trail - a hiking trail that shares not only the nature but also the history of this region with you. The information board tells you about the nearby O'Neill Castle, of which only ruins remain today. Here you can immerse yourself in the world of old Irish poems and legends that have their place along this trail. It is a place where nature and culture meet.

Due to its privileged location, this incredible Anglo-Norman castle can be seen from miles around. It is believed to have been built in the first half of the 13th century by Lady Rohesia de Verdun after her husband's death. According to legend, she promised to marry the architect who built her a castle in Roche. When this happened and the architect claimed her hand, she threw him from one of the windows, which is known as the 'murder window.'

Right in the center of the village, there's this peaceful picnic area where you can stop for lunch or take a break during your journey.

Next to this part of the road, you can clearly observe Glasdrumman Lough. On one side of the road, there is also an information panel about the Poets Trail, which passes through here, explaining the history of O'Neill Castle.

St. Brigid's is a relatively new church considering the area, as it was constructed between 1927 and 1932, although it was built over another 18th-century church that had previously existed in the area.

With grounds overlooking Lough Muckno, Hope Castle has been abandoned since 2010 when a fire ripped through the interior. At that time it was a hotel but it was originally built in the 17th century as part of the Blayney family's estate.