Shannavara is one of those many low Connemara hills that offer great views. If visited from the south the hill is a steep pull up and it feels like you're as far from civilisation as anyone has ever been but from the north it's less of an effort to ascend (assuming you get permission from this side!) and you will hear plenty of traffic from the N59 to remind you that it's not always easy to escape reality!
S. Park at Gort Mór (L92716 38708) where there is room for two cars. Follow the wide track north as it hugs Lough Inveragleragh narrowing thereafter to a somewhat more intermittent trail, although you will always be able to make out the greenish scar of the next part of the trail further along. It can be very wet in places esp. when there are a lot of post-deluge streams running off the western flanks of Knockadav. The trail eventually swings ENE when it meets a small stream at A (L93096 42620). Cross the stream and ascend any way you chose. It's steep but a lot easier to ascend than descend! Allow 2 hrs to the top. Return the same way or follow track/3133 around to Knockadav for a less steep descent off Shannavara.
N. As of 2018 there are access issues from the north. The two cul de sacs that give access to the north and northeast of the hill are both resident to farmers who will more than likely send you packing but, if you have the time and energy, it's no harm in asking...just let us know how you get on if you do! Linkback: mountainviews.ie/summit/888/comment/5647/