The Caves Of Keash Walk: How To See One Of Ireland’s Greatest Hidden Gems

The trail up to see the Caves of Keash is steep, but at just 650m/20 minutes, it’s a very rewarding walk.

One of the better-known walks in Sligo, the trail takes you up to a series of 17 caves found on the side of Keshcorran Hill near the little village of Keash in Sligo.

The ‘Keash Caves’ or the ‘Caves of Keshcorran’ form an ancient passage tomb cluster believed to predate the Pyramids of Egypt by 500-800 years!

In the guide below, you’ll discover the story behind them, where to park for the walk and some safety warnings.

Some quick need-to-knows about the Caves of Keash in Sligo

Unlike some of the more popular places to visit in Sligo, the Caves of Keash can be tricky to reach, despite the trail that was constructed some years ago.

For this reason, there are a few need-to-knows. Please pay particular notice of the warning about the hike.

1. Location

You’ll find the magnificent Caves of Keash towering over the little village of Keash in County Sligo, on the west side of Keshcorran Hill.

2. Older than the Pyramids

During the early 20th century, several archaeological investigations took place. Bones from animals that were known to wander Ireland towards the end of the Ice Age along with human teeth from the Early Iron Age were found. More below.

3. Parking

There are a few different sports for parking near the Keash Caves. The closest is this one right at the trailhead. If this is full, you can park in the village itself, right across from the Church. Here’s the location on Google Maps.

4. Safety warning

Although the hike up to the caves is reasonably short, at around 20 – 25 minutes, it’s dangerous in places. In particular, be careful when you reach the brow of the hill. It’s a steep incline from here and, when the ground is wet, it’s like butter to walk on. Good walking shoes are essential.

The story behind the Caves of Keash

The Keash Caves are one of the most unique places to visit in Ireland for good reason.

History, a certain eeriness and the immense views combine to deliver an experience and a half.

There are 17 chambers at Keash, some of which interconnect, although it’s believed that there could be many more yet to be discovered.

The discovery of animal bones

During the early 20th century, a number of archaeological investigations took place at the Keash Caves.

The archaeologists discovered bones from animals that were known to wander Ireland towards the end of the Ice Age.

Bones from the brown bear, red deer, arctic lemming and wolves were all found in the Caves of Keash.

There was also clear evidence of human life in the caves.

And then human remains

There was clear evidence of human activity discovered, also.

Archaeologists uncovered human remains and artifacts found within the depths of the caves.

Human teeth that dated back to the Early Iron Age and the Early Medieval period were discovered scattered in parts of the cave.

The Caves of Keash walk

A visit up to the Keash Caves is arguably one of the best things to do in Sligo.

They’re a little off the beaten track so you won’t meet hoards of tourists milling about the place when you visit.

The Caves of Keash walk will take you between 40 minutes and 1 hour, depending on pace and how long you spend soaking up the views.

Where to park

There are two spaces right next to the start point for the walk (not the gate – the space next to it).

Here it is on Google Maps. If this is full, you can park in Keash Village itself, right across from the Church.

Starting the walk

In the map above, you’ll see the entry point for the Caves of Keash (here it is on Google Maps).

Now, you’ll be crossing a field that, based on my two previous visits, has cows in it.

It’s for this reason that you can’t bring dogs on the trail.

Getting into the walk

From the entrance, walk straight until you reach another stile – you can’t miss it.

Take the route to the left that takes you up the hillside. If you look at the map above, you’ll see there’s a section that I’ve labelled as steep.

I did this walk on a dry day and this section was slippy – I’d say it’s very slippy after any wet weather.

Warning

The Caves of Keash walk gets dangerous as you reach the brow of the hill – it’s steep here and, at times, VERY slippy, so use care and make sure to have good shoes on.

When you get to the top you’re laughing. You’ll get some incredible views from the first couple of caves.

I’d recommend against exploring the other ones, as they can be tricky to access in places.

Getting back down

When you’re finished, simply retrace your steps back to where you left the car.

Please ensure that you’re respectful of the Keash Caves and the land that you pass through.

Leave nothing behind you but footprints.

Things to do near the Keshcorran Caves

One of the beauties of the Caves of Keash walk is that it’s a short spin away from many of the best places to visit in Sligo.

Below, you’ll find a handful of things to see and do a stone’s throw from the Keash Caves, from hikes and walks to historical sites and more.

1. Knocknashee (25-minute drive)

The Knocknashee Walk is one of the most overlooked walks in Sligo. It’s not a long walk, but it’s a tough one.

However, you’re well rewarded with the views from the summit. See our guide here.

2. Knocknarea (30-minute drive)

The Knocknarea Walk is one of my favourite walks in Sligo.

Again, it’s a bit of a challenge, but it’s doable for those with a moderate level of fitness. The views out over Strandhill are incredible. Read our guide.

3. The Glen (30-minutes + drive)

The Glen is special – there’s no two ways about it. The walk here is easy, but the entry point is hidden. Here’s where to find it.

FAQs about the Keash Caves in Sligo

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from where do you park for the Keshcorran Caves walk to how long it takes.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.