The Mealagh Woods Loop is another beautiful amenity right on our doorstep and a wonderful 3.2km looped trail on which to stretch the legs.
The trail crosses the Mealagh River and also has the option of visiting the ancient Barnagowlane Wedge Tomb.
To find the starting point, look for a small car park about 50m past the Hagal Health Farm on the Mealagh valley road.
An information board highlighting the different walking junctions will give an outline of the area. To get this loop correct, there is a point along the walk, where you start following the orange markers and that will bring you back to the road, and then onwards to your car.
If you have young children running ahead, bear in mind that once you start the steep incline near the end of the walk, you will be on the tarred country road for about ten minutes and to look out for any passing traffic.
There is a signposted option on the walk to spur off through a thick silent part of of the forest – marked in red on the trees – which will lead you to a 4000 year old wedge tomb. Once you have visited it, double back on your tracks to the yellow markings and continue on your original loop walk.
The Mealagh Woods Loop is also part of the Mealagh Walks that are incorporated into the Sheep’s Head Way Eastern Trails.
West Cork with Kids 
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