The Cnap Loop Option
| Type of Route | Arrows | Distance | Grading | Estimated Time | Total Climb |
| Loop Walk | Green | 4 km | Moderate | 50 – 70 minutes | 140 m |
This loop, of 4 km length and a climb to 140m, will take you to a height known locally as the ‘Cnap’ or Knocknamohanagh. This walk is an option on the Skibbereen to Kilcoe linear route. It can be done as an addition to that walk or after completing the loop the walker may return to the trail head at Skibbereen or Kilcoe. The views on this loop will make the effort worthwhile.
Take Note
🥾This walk is graded as Moderate
🐕🦺Dogs must be kept on a lead at all times.
Starting at the Heritage Centre, Skibbereen, follow the Skibbereen to Kilcoe linear route for 6 kms to Rahine junction (GPS: 51.55489, -9.33604). Alternatively the walker may start at the Kilcoe Trail Head and follow the Kilcoe to Skibbereen linear route for 6 km to this junction. At the Rahine Junction (1) leave the linear (red arrow) route and follow the green arrows. 1.35 km into the walk the road takes a sharp right turn (2). In the field here there is an enclosure that was once used as a cillín, or children burial ground. 1 km further on there is a large telecommunication mask which marks the highest point of the loop. About 200 m after the summit there is a level bit of ground (3) which affords a panoramic view of the River Ilen Estuary, Roaring Water Bay, the Mizen Peninsula and in the distance you can view the hills on the Beara Peninsula and, on a clear day, the Kerry mountains. Descend for 750 m and at the T Junction (4) turn right. Walk for 1 km and if you wish to return to the Skibbereen Trail Head turn left at Junction 5 and follow the red arrows. Otherwise continue westward and follow the red arrows to the Kilcoe Trail head.
