Belmore Forest and Pollnagollum Cave
Discover a hidden gem where a waterfall plunges into the mouth of Pollnagollum Cave, set within the lush Belmore Forest.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
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Belmore Forest and Pollnagollum Cave
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover a hidden gem where a waterfall plunges into the mouth of Pollnagollum Cave, set within the lush Belmore Forest.
"A cool hidden gem. Bring a torch and walk inside, it is bigger than you think from the outside."
🔦 Bring a Torch!
Essential for navigating the dark, slippery cave. Don't rely on your phone light alone.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Needed
Wet rocks and uneven ground make good grip boots a must for safety.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pollnagollum Cave Entrance
Belmore Forest
Step into a hidden world where a waterfall cascades into a cave's wide maw. It's bigger than it looks!
Belmore Forest Waterfall
Trail to Pollnagollum Cave
A beautiful 12-meter cascade tumbling into a rocky crevice, marking the start of your cave adventure.
Forest Walking Trails
Belmore Forest
Lush greenery, babbling streams, and the sounds of nature create a peaceful 5-7km loop hike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Gear Up for the Cave
Timing Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🔦 Bring a Torch!
Essential for navigating the dark, slippery cave. Don't rely on your phone light alone.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Needed
Wet rocks and uneven ground make good grip boots a must for safety. +1
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails
Leashed dogs are welcome on the forest trails, making it a great outing for pet owners.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture the unique waterfall and cave formations, but be mindful of slippery surfaces.
Tips
from all over the internet
🔦 Bring a Torch!
Essential for navigating the dark, slippery cave. Don't rely on your phone light alone.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Needed
Wet rocks and uneven ground make good grip boots a must for safety. +1
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails
Leashed dogs are welcome on the forest trails, making it a great outing for pet owners.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture the unique waterfall and cave formations, but be mindful of slippery surfaces.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Belmore Forest and Pollnagollum Cave as a charming hidden gem, particularly for its unique waterfall and cave entrance. The easy access and dog-friendly forest trails are frequently highlighted as positives, making it a great stop for families and nature lovers. However, some note the waterfall's modest size and the slippery conditions inside the cave.
"Called here whilst camping in belcoo. The waterfall wasn't great but you work with whats there. I isolated a few areas and took some shots. Amazing what you can find in a cave. This is easy access from the parking area and a couple of minutes walk to the viewing platform."
Sean Evans
"The trail starts just a short walk from the parking — about 5 to 7 minutes along a path through Belmore Forest. The forest is lush and green, full of moss, babbling streams, and the sounds of nature.
After a brief walk, you’ll reach a beautiful 12-meter waterfall. The water falls into a crevice in the rock, where the wide entrance to Coolarkin Cave is located.
Important: don’t forget to bring a flashlight — it’s dark inside the cave, and the wet rocks are very slippery. It’s best to wear boots for a safe and confident walk.
You’ll be able to enjoy the atmosphere of the cave and take great photos, but be careful, especially inside.
The route is easy and suitable for the whole family if you’re ready for a little dampness and cool air inside the cave."
Olga Vencele
"A cool hidden gem. Bring a torch and walk inside, it is bigger than you think from the outside. Wear good shoes because the stones are slippery and the ground uneven. We loved it."
Michelle Brenton
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The forest and cave are accessible via a short walk from a small, free car park. The trail to the waterfall and cave entrance is well-marked and takes about 5-7 minutes. +1
Yes, there is a small, free car park located conveniently near the trailhead.
Information on public transport access is limited, but driving is the most common and convenient way to reach the location. +1
The initial walk through Belmore Forest is relatively easy, but the path to the waterfall and cave involves downward steps and can be slippery. +1
While the forest has trails, they are primarily for walking. Cycling might be possible on some wider paths, but it's best suited for hiking.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Belmore Forest and Pollnagollum Cave is free. There is also a free car park available.
The cave and forest are natural attractions and do not have set opening hours. They are accessible during daylight hours.
There is no admission fee to visit Belmore Forest and Pollnagollum Cave.
Guided tours are not typically offered for this natural attraction. Visitors explore independently.
While generally safe with proper precautions (torch, good footwear), visitors should be aware of slippery conditions and potential hazards.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll find a beautiful 12-meter waterfall cascading into the entrance of Pollnagollum Cave, a lush forest with walking trails, and the cave itself, which is larger than it appears from the outside. +1
Exploring the accessible parts of the cave and enjoying the waterfall can take about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how far you venture and how long you spend taking photos.
Yes, the walk and cave entrance are suitable for families, provided children are supervised and wear appropriate footwear due to slippery surfaces.
The forest is home to typical woodland flora and fauna. While not guaranteed, you might encounter birds and small mammals.
Yes, there is a viewing platform near the waterfall that offers a good perspective of the cascade and the cave entrance.
📸 📸 Photography
The waterfall cascading into the cave entrance is a prime spot. Inside the cave, with a good flashlight, you can capture unique rock formations and the cave's atmosphere.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the cave's scale. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light shots, and a powerful flashlight or external light source is crucial.
It can be challenging due to low light and slippery surfaces. Ensure your camera is protected from moisture and use a flashlight to illuminate your subject.
Drone usage inside caves is generally not recommended due to limited space, potential for signal loss, and safety concerns.
Daytime offers the best natural light. Overcast days can provide softer light, reducing harsh shadows on the waterfall and cave entrance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key advice for families: Ensure everyone wears sturdy, non-slip shoes, as the path and cave floor can be wet and slippery. Bring a flashlight for each child if possible, to enhance their sense of adventure. The forest trails are also great for letting kids explore nature safely.
🚶 Hikers and Nature Lovers
The highlight for many will be the unique combination of the forest, the cascading waterfall, and the intriguing Pollnagollum Cave. It's a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts looking to capture natural beauty, from the forest canopy to the cave's dramatic entrance.
🐶 Dog Owners
Remember to keep your dog on a leash, especially near the waterfall and cave entrance, and be mindful of the slippery terrain. The forest loop offers a good opportunity for a decent walk for both you and your pet.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Pollnagollum Cave
The experience inside the cave is one of raw nature. The sound of the waterfall echoes, and the cool, damp air adds to the atmosphere. While it's not a vast cavern system, the accessible parts offer a unique glimpse into subterranean landscapes. Remember to wear sturdy, waterproof boots for better grip and safety.
This cave is often described as a 'hidden gem' and is suitable for families, provided everyone is prepared for the damp conditions and uneven terrain. It's a place where you can truly appreciate the power and beauty of natural geological formations.
The Belmore Forest Trails
The main trail leads you to the waterfall and cave entrance, taking approximately 5 to 7 minutes from the car park. For those looking for a longer excursion, a 5-7km loop is available, offering varied terrain with inclines and declines that can be slippery underfoot. This longer route provides a more immersive experience of the forest's natural beauty.
This area is also noted as being dog-friendly, making it an ideal destination for visitors with pets. The combination of forest walks and the unique cave attraction makes Belmore Forest a well-rounded natural destination.
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