Mullaghmeen facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mullaghmeen |
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| (Mullach Mín) | |
Mullaghmeen Hill viewed from Coole
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 258 m (846 ft) |
| Prominence | 146 m (479 ft) |
| Listing | County top (Westmeath) |
| Naming | |
| English translation | smooth summit |
| Language of name | Irish |
| Geography | |
 Mullaghmeen
Location in island of Ireland
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| Location | Westmeath, Ireland |
| Parent range | Westmeath Hills |
| OSI/OSNI grid | N469793 |
| Topo map | OSi Discovery 41 |
| Geology | |
| Mountain type | Undifferentiated limestone, (Visean Limestones (undifferentiated)) |
Mullaghmeen (which means "smooth summit" in Irish) is a special hill in Ireland. It stands at 258 meters (about 846 feet) tall. This makes it the highest point in County Westmeath, but it's also the lowest "county top" in all of Ireland. A "county top" is simply the highest natural point in a county.
Mullaghmeen is found inside the Mullaghmeen Forest. This forest is famous for having the biggest planted beech forest in all of Europe!
Where is Mullaghmeen?
Mullaghmeen is located in the very northern part of County Westmeath. It's right near the border with County Meath. From the hill, you can look out towards the northern part of Lough Sheelin. This lake forms the border with County Cavan.
The hill is about 16 kilometers (10 miles) north of a town called Castlepollard. Even though Mullaghmeen is the highest point in Westmeath, it's the lowest county top in Ireland.
The Unique Forest
The soil on Mullaghmeen is made of limestone. Back in 1936, the Department of Agriculture decided this soil would be perfect for planting deciduous trees. Deciduous trees are trees that lose their leaves in the autumn, like oak or maple trees.
This decision led to the creation of the 400-hectare (about 988-acre) Mullaghmeen Forest. It grew into the largest planted beech forest in Europe. Beech trees are known for their smooth, grey bark and beautiful autumn colors.
Exploring Mullaghmeen Forest
Even though Mullaghmeen isn't a huge mountain, it's a popular spot for walking. People love to explore the forest trails. There are several loop-walks that take about 2 to 3 hours to complete. These walks are roughly 6 miles long.
Most people start their adventure at the car park near the forest entrance. The trails lead you through the beautiful Mullaghmeen Forest. Along the way, you can visit interesting spots. These include the Booley Hut, the Famine Garden, the Flax Pits, and the Woodland Arboretum. It's a great way to enjoy nature and get some exercise!
