Audio Guide of Proleek Dolmen

Proleek Dolmen is an outdoor site located on the grounds of the Ballymascanlon Hotel, so it is accessible throughout the day. We recommend visiting during daylight hours for greater safety and better views of the monument.

Access to Proleek Dolmen is completely free, as it is located in a publicly accessible area. No advance booking or tickets are required.

The main visit takes about 20–30 minutes. If you want to explore the dolmen’s carvings in detail or walk around the surrounding area, allow 45 minutes to enjoy it fully.

It is a Neolithic portal dolmen (3000–2500 BC) with a huge 40-ton capstone. According to legend, it was built by the giant Parrah Boug McShagean to be buried beneath it. It is also called the "mound of the wishing stones" because of the tradition of throwing small stones onto the dolmen’s roof.

Spring and summer are ideal because of the good weather. We recommend going early in the morning to avoid groups and enjoy better light for photographing the details of the megalithic monument.

Access requires walking along a natural dirt path with gentle slopes. It may be difficult for wheelchairs. We recommend sturdy footwear and checking with Ballymascanlon Hotel (+353 42 935 8200) about the specific ground conditions.

In Dundalk, you can visit County Louth, the historic center, and the coast of the Cooley Peninsula. The spectacular Ballymascanlon Nature Reserve is just a 15-minute walk away. Roche Castle and Mellifont Abbey are also highlights.

1) Bring waterproof footwear (the ground can be muddy). 2) Combine it with a visit to the giants’ tomb of Cloghmore Stone. 3) If you go in winter, check the forecast for possible rain. Review access hours on the Louth tourism website.