Anascaul Lake Loop via Cnoc Mhaoilionáin – An Bhanóg Thuaidh – Abhann an Garbháth

Start Point: Anascaul Lake@ O.S. Map 70 Q 583051

Leaving from Annascaul Lake parking spot we turn south along the path before taking a sharp right to begin a tricky enough ascent (400m) which is on mixed terrain underfoot and involves a little bit of scrambling at times before we reach a ridge which leads us on a gentle enough ascent to the tip of Cnoc Mhaoilionáin (563m). The views as we climb are spectacular and we will take a steady pace with many opportunities to stop and take in the vista around us.

From Cnoc Mhaoilionáin we will head west descending a little before beginning another slight ascent to our high point of the day, An Bhanóg Thuaidh (641m). The surrounding landscape is a joy to behold at this point. From the high point we will turn north and begin a steep descent of approximately 250m and then head north east until we join the zig zag path that leads from Macha na Bó back towards the cars at Annascaul Lake.

Easy walk option:- For those who would like a pleasant and easy walk option there is a self guided path leading from the lake towards Macha na Bó passing the majestic waterfalls and crossing the Garrivagh River. This walk is entirely on a rough pathway and it involves a return on the same track.