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Turbet Island: A Historical Sanctuary

Discover Turbet Island: A serene nature preserve with historical ruins, scenic trails, and unique wildlife, just a short walk from Belturbet.

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Turbet Island, located just off Belturbet in County Cavan, is a serene nature preserve with a rich history. It features the remains of an Anglo-Norman motte and bailey, accessible walking trails, and abundant wildlife, offering a peaceful escape into nature and history.

A brief summary to Turbet Island

  • Belturbet, Kilconny, Co. Cavan, H14 FN23, IE
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking the accessible trails around the island.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy by the River Erne, taking in the peaceful surroundings.
  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best opportunities to view local wildlife.
  • Check out the Belturbet Railway Station for trail maps and tourist information.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Belturbet, Turbet Island is easily accessible by foot. Head northwest towards the Kilconny Bridge on the R202. Cross the bridge over the River Erne, and you'll find the entrance to Turbet Island and its car park immediately on the other side. The walk from the town center is approximately 2 kilometers and should take about 30-40 minutes. This route offers scenic views of the river and surrounding landscapes.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by bus from Cavan or other nearby towns, disembark at the Belturbet Pharmacy stop. From there, follow the walking directions towards Kilconny Bridge and Turbet Island, roughly a 2km walk. Bus Éireann operates regular services to Belturbet. A single bus fare from Cavan to Belturbet typically costs €4 - €15.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in Belturbet and can provide a direct route to Turbet Island. From the town center, a taxi ride to the island will be short and convenient. Taxi services like Belturbet Cabs and ADTS Taxis operate in the area. Expect to pay around €27-€35 for a taxi from Cavan to Belturbet , and a shorter trip within Belturbet should cost proportionally less.

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Discover more about Turbet Island

Turbet Island, situated on the northwest side of Belturbet, County Cavan, is a captivating blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The island, nestled beside the Kilconny Bridge on the River Erne, is easily accessible and offers a tranquil retreat for visitors. The name Belturbet itself is derived from Gaelic words meaning 'the mouth of the peninsula,' highlighting the island's geographical importance. Historically, Turbet Island was one of the first major settlements in the Belturbet area. It features a motte, a steep-sided mound of earth with a flat top, and a bailey, an enclosed area that once housed buildings. These structures were part of an Anglo-Norman motte and bailey fort built in the early 13th century by Walter de Lacy. The fort was one of seven fortifications strategically placed to control access to Ulster. Although the original wooden fort did not survive, the earthworks remain visible. Abandoned by the Anglo-Normans around 1233, Turbet Island was later taken over by the O'Reillys, who are believed to have constructed a stone castle on the site. Today, visitors can explore the island via a footbridge located near the main bridge over the River Erne. The island boasts a fully accessible walking trail that meanders along the river, passing the remnants of the Motte and Bailey and the Railway Bridge. Turbet Island is also known for an extraordinary discovery: the first remnants of a prehistoric Woolly Mammoth found in Europe were unearthed here. These remains are now housed in the Natural History Museum in Dublin. The island is a haven for wildlife, including various bird species, and the River Erne is home to protected species such as the Whooper Swan and the Greenland White-Fronted Goose. Designated as an official site of the Marble Arch Geopark, Turbet Island is considered historically, socially, and economically significant to the region. It offers a peaceful environment for walks and picnics, with trails suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. Trail maps and tourist information are available at the Railway Station in Belturbet.

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