Cronk ny Arrey Laa facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Cronk ny Arrey Laa |
|
|---|---|
| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 437 m (1,434 ft) |
| Naming | |
| English translation | Hill of the Day Watch |
| Language of name | Manx |
| Geography | |
| Location | Isle of Man |
Cronk ny Arrey Laa is a special hill located in the southwest part of the Isle of Man. It stands tall at 437 meters (about 1,434 feet). This makes it the second highest hill in its area, just after South Barrule. The hill is mostly in the parish of Rushen.
What Does the Name Mean?
The name Cronk ny Arrey Laa comes from the Manx language. It means "Hill of the Day Watch." This name tells us about its history. Long ago, during the time of the Vikings, people used this hill as a lookout point. They watched for any invaders trying to reach the island.
Locally, the hill is also known as Cronk ny Irree-Laa. This name means "hill of the rising day" or "dawn." It was very important for herring-fishers. When the sun appeared over this hill, it was a signal for them to put their fishing nets into the sea.
Exploring the Hill
Cronk ny Arrey Laa has a very steep western side. This part of the hill drops straight down into the sea, forming a dramatic cliff. People who love hiking describe the area around it as wild and beautiful. Some even say it has some of the most amazing coastal views in the British Isles!
Even though it feels wild, the hill's top is quite easy to reach. It's only about 500 meters from the main road. This road connects the towns of Port Erin, Port St Mary, and Peel. You can climb to the summit as part of an easy day walk. The top of the hill is also part of a long walking path called the Raad ny Foillan.
From the summit, you can see incredible views. Manx people say you can see "the six kingdoms" from here. These are Mann (the Isle of Man), England, Scotland, Ireland, Wales, and Heaven! Some people even add a seventh "kingdom," which is Neptune (the sea). The wet, boggy slopes of the hill are home to special plants. One interesting plant you might find is the carnivorous sundew. This plant actually eats insects!
A Place of History and Pilgrimage
Cronk ny Arrey Laa has been an important place for a very long time. It was an ancient site for pilgrimage. People would visit two special spots on its slopes. One was called "Chibbyr ny Vashtey," which means "well of baptism." The other was a Manx Keil, or chapel. This chapel was located at Lag ny Keeilley, on the steep western side of the hill.
