Emery Celtic Cross in Ireland 2025
A giant Celtic cross of trees can be spotted from the sky above an Irish forest
Best time: October
Flying over the scenic Irish landscapes is always a magical experience. Once your plane is speeding over Killea, County Donegal, look down at the particularly mystical sight: a giant Celtic cross made of thousands of trees.
Highlights
Situated in Killea, County Donegal, the Emery Celtic Cross is a remarkable feature crafted from thousands of trees and visible even from the air. Measuring over 100 meters in length and 70 meters in width, the cross spans two forested sections of Bogay Hill near Newtown Cunningham at the northern end of the Lagan Valley. Visitors can enjoy the surrounding forests on foot or by bike, immersing themselves in the stunning Irish countryside. However, navigating the area by car can be challenging due to the narrow, winding roads.
Origins
In 2016, passengers flying into the City of Derry Airport were captivated by an extraordinary sight on the Donegal hillside—a 100-meter-tall Celtic cross emerging from the landscape near Killea. The intricate design, created using a mix of tree species like Japanese larch, was the vision of local forester Liam Emery. He carefully planted these trees over a decade earlier to form the striking pattern uniquely suited to the area's soil and climate. Tragically, Liam Emery passed away in 2010 at the age of 51, never witnessing his creation fully revealed.
This stunning natural artwork is expected to remain visible for another 60 to 70 years, leaving a lasting legacy of his creativity and craftsmanship.
Best Time to Witness
The most visually appealing period to visit the Emery Celtic Cross in Ireland is around October, when the surrounding trees change into enchanting golden hues that contrast with the evergreens. The optimal viewing time would be during the day as the colors show variation throughout the day, with changing weather conditions.
