Curlew Mountains, Mountain summit in County Roscommon, Ireland
Curlew Mountains is a range in County Roscommon rising to about 259 meters, composed of Devonian sandstone and conglomerate formations. The rock structures differ markedly from the limestone terrain that surrounds the area.
The Battle of Curlew Pass occurred in 1599 when forces led by Red Hugh O'Donnell defeated an English army, marking a major Irish victory. This event shaped how locals understood resistance against English rule in the region.
The name comes from the Irish word "An Corrshliabh", meaning steep-sided pointed mountains, and has no connection to the bird. This naming reflects how local language describes the land's physical character.
Several hiking paths cross the range between Boyle and Castlebaldwin, with entry points accessible from various directions across northeastern Connacht. Walking is best done in dry conditions since the slopes can be steep and slippery.
The range functions as a natural boundary in northeastern Ireland, quietly separating different regions in ways visitors often miss. The terrain and rock types shift noticeably on either side of the ridge.
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