Rathmichael Wood: A Blend of Nature and Ancient History

Rathmichael Wood, located in Shankill, Dublin 18, offers a tranquil escape into nature with a rich tapestry of historical and archaeological sites. The wood itself features a mix of coniferous and broadleaved trees, providing a habitat for diverse wildlife, including foxes, pygmy shrews, and Sika deer. The area's history stretches back to the Late Bronze Age, with the remains of Rathmichael Hillfort still visible on the hilltop. This ancient enclosure, once a significant gathering place, offers stunning views north over Dublin Bay, east towards Killiney and Dalkey, and south towards Bray Head and the Little Sugar Loaf. Within the wood, you can also find a 12th-century Fassore cross, a boundary marker adorned with a simple crucifixion scene. This cross marks the entrance to the old Rathmichael Church, a National Monument believed to have been founded by St. Comgall of Bangor in the 6th century. The church ruins include the remains of a round tower, known locally as 'The Skull Hole,' which once served as a repository for skulls and bones from the graveyard. Rathmichael Wood offers a looped walk of 1.7km, taking approximately 30 minutes to complete. The trail is considered moderate, with a 40-meter climb, and is waymarked in green. It also connects to the Dublin Mountains Way, marked in yellow, for those seeking a longer hike.