Cavan Way facts for kids

The Cavan Way (also known as Slí an Cabhán in Irish) is a fun long-distance walking trail. It is located in County Cavan, Ireland. This trail is about 22 kilometers (14 miles) long. It starts in a village called Blacklion and finishes in Dowra. Most people walk the entire trail in just one day.

The Cavan Way is a special route. It is part of the National Waymarked Trails system. The National Trails Office of the Irish Sports Council has given it this title. Cavan County Council helps to manage and maintain the trail. A local person named Harold Johnston first thought of the idea for this trail. It was created by the Blacklion Community Council and the Cavan County Development Team between 1984 and 1985.

What to See on the Cavan Way

The Cavan Way offers many interesting sights as you walk. It takes you through beautiful landscapes. You will see hills, ancient sites, and the source of a famous river.

Starting in Blacklion

When you begin in Blacklion, the trail goes up into the hills. From here, you can see amazing views. You will look down over Upper and Lower Lough MacNean. These are two lovely lakes.

Exploring Ancient History

The path then goes near a place called The Cavan Burren. This area is full of ancient history. You will pass the Giant's Grave. This is an old passage tomb, which is a type of ancient burial site. It is also the highest point on the entire trail.

After this, the route goes downhill. You will reach the Moneygashel crossroads. Here, you can find the remains of an old sweat house. These were used long ago for steam baths.

Following the River Shannon

The trail continues to the Shannon Pot. This is a small pool of water. It is very important because it is the exact source of the mighty River Shannon. The River Shannon is the longest river in Ireland.

For a few kilometers, the path follows the banks of the Shannon. You will walk alongside the river as it begins its long journey. Finally, the Way reaches a road that leads you to Dowra. This is where the trail ends.

Connecting to Other Trails

The Cavan Way is an important link in a larger network of walking routes. It connects to other trails in Ireland.

Linking with the Leitrim Way and Ulster Way

At Dowra, the Cavan Way connects with the Leitrim Way. This means you can continue your adventure on another long-distance trail. In Blacklion, the Cavan Way also links up with the Ulster Way. This allows walkers to explore different regions.

Part of the Beara-Breifne Way

The Cavan Way is also a part of the Beara-Breifne Way. This is a huge walking and cycling route. It is still being developed. The plan is for it to run all the way from the Beara Peninsula in County Cork. It will go north to Breifne in County Leitrim.

This long route follows a historical path. It traces the journey of Donal Cam O'Sullivan Beare. He was an Irish chief who marched his followers in 1602. This happened after the Battle of Kinsale.