Clogheen Walk – Tipperary Heritage Way

Clogheen Walk – Tipperary Heritage Way

The Tipperary Heritage Way s a 56 kilometre-long low-level linear walking route in the south midlands of Ireland that follows the course of the River Suir northwards from the Vee Gap in the Knockmealdown Mountains towards the historic town of Cashel.

The Suir, claimed by many to be the second longest river in Ireland, brought early settlers, the Vikings and the Normans deep into the heartland of Ireland and the country’s most valuable farmland, the Golden Vale, and the river valley is thus rich in historic remains.

Starting from the Gap above the Vee in the car park used for access to Bay Lough (Loc8 Code – YZS-26-53G), a famous viewing point, the route follows part of an ancient road, known as St. Declan’s Way, that once linked Cashel with the coastal town of Ardmore, a route taken in the past by many historic figures including St Patrick and King Henry II. Having crossed the Knockmealdown Mountains at the Vee the route passes through the villages of Ardfinnan and Golden and the town of Cahir before reaching Cashel.

The terrain consists mainly of quiet country roads, forestry tracks and riverside paths, some sections of which may be at times overgrown and wet. It is a route that has so many attractions along its way where walkers will be tempted to linger, such as churches, abbeys, ancient graveyards, castles and a wonderful cottage orné (the Swiss Cottage outside Cahir).

A variety of waterfowl including the ubiquitous heron will be seen along the river stretches, where otters may also be glimpsed.

You can find a map of the Tipperary Heritage Way in its entirety here – Tipperary Heritage Way – Start at the Vee, Clogheen – Overview Map

For a map of just the Clogheen to Goatenbridge section see here – THW – Map 1 The Vee to Goatenbridge

The Tipperary Heritage Way featured on RTE’s Tracks and Trails programme in November 2011 – see here.