Knockeyon 2.14

Knockeyon is a hill in County Westmeath, Ireland. When viewed from the Ranaghan, and Gillardstown side of the hill, it dominates the surrounding lakes in the countryside of northern County Westmeath.LocationThe hill is on the southeastern shore of Lough Derravaragh and oversees much of the north Leinster countryside.Ancient chapelThe ruins of an ancient chapel, built by Saint Cauragh and dedicated to Saint Eyon, are halfway up the hill.The chapel was cut out of the natural rock, and is believed to have never possessed a roof. The ruins of Saint Cauragh's Well are adjacent to this chapel; its waters were believed to have miraculous properties.HabitatKnockeyon and other surrounding hills support deciduous woodland which mostly consists of native species. Hazel, rowan, ash and oak are abundant. Exotic species occur occasionally, including beech.The neighbouring Knockbody Wood is inhabited by wild pheasant and is a popular attraction for local pheasant hunters. On occasions the Common pochard (Aythya ferina) population, which is one of the largest in Ireland, has exceeded the threshold for international importance. (i.e. 3,500 individual fowl).