Best attractions and places to see around Greaghacholea, a townland in County Cavan, Ireland, offers a variety of historical sites, natural features, and cultural landmarks within its broader region. The area is characterized by its rural setting, with small streams and forestry plantations. Visitors can explore the rich history and natural beauty of County Cavan, with 7 hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
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Known locally as the "Wee Abbey", Clones Abbey is a ruined monastery dating back to the 12th century. The original abbey was founded by St. Tigernach as early as the 6th century. However, the abbey was destroyed by fire not once, but four times during its history. In the 16th century, the abbey suffered once again during the suppression of monasteries and Protestant reformation under Henry VIII. Less than a hundred years later, it lay in ruin, although some solitary monks still lived here until the 18th century. Today, you can visit the crumbling walls and take a look at the interesting graveyard. The abbey is free to visit and you can access it any time.
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There is a great view from the car park, but even better, park up your bike and take the short trail to the hiking viewpoint. There you can marvel at the panoramic views across County Fermanagh and County Monaghan. Take a seat in the oversized chair and enjoy. Especially lovely at sunrise and sunset.
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This is an extraordinarily wild and scenic part of Northern Ireland. The lough appears on your right as you travel down Carnmore Road against a backdrop of vibrant green coniferous forest.
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This house is thought to be the only one in Ireland where an exorcism has taken place. Since the exorcism the house is said to be haunted by the poltergeist. Experts of the paranormal suggests that there is a very heavy and eerie atmosphere in the house. Head east on Mullaghfad road for 100 metres to find the spooky house!
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Carnmore, or Carn Rock as it's known locally, is a scenic viewpoint on the western edge of Sliabh Beagh. The name Carnmore roughly translates to "big burial mound". In Irish mythology, Carnmore is believed to be the burial place of Bith, son of Noah. Cessair, who was a great leader of the first inhabitants of Ireland, was said to be a daughter of Bith.
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The round tower in Clones was originally built around the 10th century as part of the abbey. Although it would once have stood at 75 feet (23 m), the top part is now missing. Nonetheless, it is still a prominent feature on Clones' skyline. There would once have been four storeys, including a bell storey. St Tierney's graveyard, which surrounds the tower, is also an interesting place to explore with many 17th and 18th-century gravestones and the tomb shrine of St Tighernach.
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Known locally as the "Wee Abbey", Clones Abbey is a ruined monastery dating back to the 12th century. The original abbey was founded by St. Tigernach as early as the 6th century. However, the abbey was destroyed by fire not once, but four times during its history. In the 16th century, the abbey suffered once again during the suppression of monasteries and Protestant reformation under Henry VIII. Less than a hundred years later, it lay in ruin, although some solitary monks still lived here until the 18th century. Today, you can visit the crumbling walls and take a look at the interesting graveyard. The abbey is free to visit and you can access it any time.
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You can explore several significant historical sites. Visit Clones 'Wee' Abbey, a ruined monastery dating back to the 12th century, or the nearby Clones Round Tower, a prominent feature on Clones' skyline. Further afield in County Cavan, consider the historic 12th-century Clogh Oughter Castle on an island in Lough Oughter, or the Drumlane Monastic Site near Milltown.
Yes, the area offers beautiful natural features. Carnmore Lough is a particularly wild and scenic viewpoint, with the lough set against a backdrop of vibrant green coniferous forest. You can also find Lough Antrawar, located southeast of Slieve Beagh, known for its boggy slopes and outflow stream.
County Cavan, surrounding Greaghacholea, is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find walking trails at Killykeen Forest Park and Dun A Rí Forest Park, or explore the Cavan Burren Park for its unique landscape and archaeological sites. For cycling, the Cavan Way is a popular choice, and there are numerous routes for touring and road cycling. For example, you can find cycling routes like the 'Kingfisher Cycle Trail' or 'Newbliss and Rockcorry Loop' in the area. You can find more details on these routes in the cycling guide and road cycling guide.
While Greaghacholea itself is a small townland, the broader County Cavan offers family-friendly options. Places like Killykeen Forest Park and Dun A Rí Forest Park provide scenic walking trails suitable for families. The Cavan County Museum also offers engaging exhibits on local history, including an outdoor replica trench, which can be interesting for older children.
For walks and runs, consider the trails within Killykeen Forest Park or Dun A Rí Forest Park, which offer varying lengths and scenic views. For running specifically, there are routes like the 'Running loop from Altawark' or the 'Doon Forest loop from Knocks' available. You can explore more options in the running trails guide.
The Cooneen Ghost House is a historical site thought to be the only house in Ireland where an exorcism has taken place. It is said to be haunted by a poltergeist and has a heavy, eerie atmosphere. You can find this spooky house by heading east on Mullaghfad road for about 100 meters.
Beyond the immediate Greaghacholea area, County Cavan boasts several cultural sites. The Cavan County Museum provides extensive exhibits on local history. The Belturbet Railway Station Museum is a beautifully restored heritage site showcasing a historic railway station. These offer insights into the region's past and heritage.
Lough Oughter, a prominent lake in County Cavan, is renowned for fishing, particularly for pike and perch, catering to both experienced anglers and beginners. Killykeen Forest Park, located near Lough Oughter, also offers opportunities for activities like kayaking on the lake.
The natural parks and forest areas around Greaghacholea, such as Killykeen Forest Park and Cavan Burren Park, offer opportunities to observe local wildflowers and various wildlife. While specific species are not detailed, these natural habitats support diverse flora and fauna typical of Irish woodlands and wetlands.
For easy walks, Killykeen Forest Park offers scenic trails suitable for a relaxed pace. Additionally, some of the running routes, like the 'Running loop from Altawark' (3.7 km), are categorized as easy and can be enjoyed as a leisurely walk. The Dun A Rí Forest Park also has numerous walking trails of varying lengths, some of which are suitable for easier strolls.
Clones 'Wee' Abbey is a ruined monastery with a history dating back to the 6th century, though the current ruins are from the 12th century. It has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times. The Clones Round Tower, originally part of the abbey and built around the 10th century, is a significant historical landmark despite its missing top section. Both are surrounded by St Tierney's graveyard, offering a glimpse into ancient Irish monastic life.


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