Glen of Aherlow

The Glen of Aherlow runs east to west between the Galtee Mountains on its southern side and the lower Slievenamuck ridge to the north, with the Aherlow River along the floor and a good deal of forestry and mature woodland on the slopes. Its enclosed position made it a refuge for centuries - it was a route through the mountains, and dispossessed people and outlaws used the woods here at various points from the medieval period onward. The Christ the King statue on the Slievenamuck side, put up in 1950, marks the main viewpoint over the valley, and there is a network of waymarked walking loops of varying length, several forest trails and access to the Galtee ridge including Galtymore. Coillte plantations dominate parts of the slopes and felling operations close trails periodically. The valley is quiet, agricultural and short on services outside a few pubs and guesthouses.

What you actually see

• The valley - between the Galtees and the Slievenamuck ridge.
• The Christ the King viewpoint - the 1950 statue above the northern side.
• The walking loops - waymarked routes of varying length on both sides.
• The woodland - mature trees and Coillte plantation on the slopes.

When to go

April to October. Autumn colour on the wooded slopes is the strongest reason to come late. Forestry operations close some trails; check signage.

Honest expectations

Much of the slope is commercial plantation rather than natural woodland. Few services in the glen itself. Trails are muddy after rain and some are affected by felling.

Nearby

Galtymore rises on the southern side; Tipperary town and Cahir are at either end.