Cnoc na d’Tobar: A sacred pilgrimage, with views that are simply out of this world.
Cnoc na d’Tobar, (Knocknadobar ) means "mountain of the wells" and is situated overlooking the busy town of Cahersiveen on the Skellig Coast. At 690 metres tall, it is ranked as one of the premier mountains on the whole Iveragh Peninsula and is just 300 metres short of Ireland’s tallest mountain! However, before Christianity arrived in Ireland, Cnoc na d’Tobar had an even more important place in society, as it was the site of ancient mountain assemblies, especially the festival of Lughnasa, where harvest was celebrated on the mountain’s summit. Pagan people lit fires and held singing and dancing competitions - some of the the original celebrations of what we now know as Halloween. These days, Cnoc na d’Tobar is considered one of Ireland’s key sacred or holy mountains, similar to Mount Brandon near Tralee and Dingle and Croagh Patrick in Mayo and is one of the 12 national Pilgrim Paths of Ireland.
In 1885, Canon Brosnan, parish priest in nearby Cahersiveen and builder of the Daniel O’ Connell Memorial Church in the town; decided to build fourteen stations of the cross along the mountain’s ancient trail. At the base of the mountain there is a well dedicated to St. Fursey or St. Fursa, the sixth-century saint, which is known for its healing mineral properties, especially for eye problems. And that is where this magnificent trail commences.
There is a signposted carpark at the base, and access to the climb is off this. The hiking trail follows the 'stations of the cross' pilgrim route and it doesn’t take long before stunning views unfold across Coonanna harbour. As you climb further the town of Cahersiveen and then the Skellig Islands, Valentia Island, DIngle Bay and Dolus Head come into the magnificent, panoramic view. On clearer days, West Cork is also clearly visible!
When you get to 580 metres, there is a cross titled ‘Pilgrim Passport Destination Point’. Some climbers don’t go any further, but if you carry on upwards for another 100 meters, you will reach the highest point with the reward of an entrancing vista over the mountains of Dingle and beyond.
Details:
Start point: Turn off the N70 to cross the bridge in Cahersiveen and take the first right and second left. Pass St Furze’s Well and park just beyond.
Time: 3.5 hours.
Difficulty: Moderate
Cnoc na d’Tobar is a pilgrim path, but no matter what your religion, you will agree that it truly is ‘God’s Country’.
