Keeper Hill facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Keeper Hill / Slievekimalta |
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| Sliabh Coimeálta | |
Viewed from the west
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 694 m (2,277 ft) |
| Prominence | 627 m (2,057 ft) |
| Listing | P600, Marilyn, Hewitt |
| Geography | |
 Keeper Hill / Slievekimalta
Location in island of Ireland
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| Location | County Tipperary, Ireland |
| Parent range | Silvermine Mountains |
| OSI/OSNI grid | R823667 |
| Topo map | OSi Discovery 59 |
| Climbing | |
| Easiest route | Way marked from Doonane carpark through Ballyhourigan woods |
Keeper Hill, also known as Slievekimalta, is a tall mountain in County Tipperary, Ireland. It stands 694 meters (about 2,277 feet) high. This impressive peak is part of the Silvermine Mountains. Some people used to think it was part of the Slieve Felim Mountains. Its Irish name, Sliabh Coimeálta, means "mountain of guarding."
Contents
What's in a Name?
The Story Behind Keeper Hill
Keeper Hill has an interesting story behind its name. It comes from an old tale about a woman named Sadb. She was the daughter of a famous king, Conn of the Hundred Battles. Sadb raised her children, Eogan and Indderb, on this mountain. Their father, Ailill Aulom, who was the king of Munster, had rejected them. So, the mountain became known as the "mountain of guarding" because Sadb guarded her children there.
Where is Keeper Hill?
Location and Height
Keeper Hill is located about 15 kilometers (about 9 miles) east of Limerick City. It is the highest mountain in the Silvermine Mountains. It's also the tallest peak in the wider Shannon area. Overall, Keeper Hill ranks as the 117th highest mountain in all of Ireland.
Ancient Stone Circle
On the northeastern side of Keeper Hill, in a place called Bauraglanna, there is an old stone circle. This ancient site is known as Firbrega, which means 'false men'. Stone circles are often mysterious places from long ago.
Exploring Keeper Hill
Walking Trails
If you enjoy walking, there's a special looped trail around the lower parts of Keeper Hill. This trail is part of the National Looped Walks. It's clearly marked with purple arrows to guide you. For those who are more adventurous, you can extend your walk and trek all the way to the very top of the mountain!
Old Traditions
In the past, people used to gather on the summit of Keeper Hill every August. This gathering was part of a festival called Lughnasadh. It was a traditional celebration held at the end of summer.
Protecting Nature
Forests and Bogs
The slopes of Keeper Hill are home to a large woodland. This forest covers about 3,300 hectares (over 8,000 acres). Most of the trees are conifers, which are not native to the area. However, the very top of the mountain, about 300 hectares (740 acres), is a special type of wetland called a blanket bog. There's also grassland with a plant called Nardus grass. These areas are very important for nature.
Special Area of Conservation
Because of its unique plants and habitats, Keeper Hill has been named a Special Area of Conservation. This means the area is protected to help keep its natural environment safe and healthy for future generations.
