Gaulstown - Portal Tomb

Gaulstown portal tomb is one of the most impressive monuments in the county and also ranks among the finest Dolmens in Ireland.

Situated at the foot of what's known locally as "Cnoc an Chaillighe"', (The hill of the Hag") it stands in a small shaded enclosure.

Facing SE into a hillside, the structure consists of two east-facing portal stones (2.4 metres high) with a blocking door between and a chamber behind comprised of three other uprights. The various uprights support the large rectangular capstone some 4.2 metres in length and 1 metre thick.

The structure has undergone substantial maintenance in the form of concrete support which is most visible inside the chamber. However, it doesn’t take away from the overall appearance of the monument.

The middle orthostat on the North side is possibly not in its original position, appearing to be somewhat offset and encroaching into the chamber.

This is a much visited monument and should certainly be on anyone's itinerary coming to Waterford on a megalithic journey.  It's a bit difficult to photograph, particularly in Summer when the surrounding trees are covered in leaves but it's certainly a lovely quiet place of peace to dwell and reflect on this amazing prehistoric structure.

Directions:  From Waterford City journey on the N25 ( Cork Rd) till you see a left turn for Tramore. Travel on this (R682) and at the second crossroads turn right where signposted for Gaulstown Dolmen. Continue for about 1.5km till you see a sign for tomb which is up a rough path to your left. Park here and walk the 200m to the site which is accessable through a stile.

Click for Aardvark Map

Other sites in this area - Pembrokestown Motte