Idanre hills with the highest peak reached by six hundred and sixty seven (667) steps remain one of the wonders of nature and a marvelous tourist destination. Estimated to be over 800 years, they are located in the ancient town of Idanre, Ondo State, South West, Nigeria. It is found to be fifteen kilometres (15km) South West of Akure, the State Capital. The ancient town is on the hill top while the new settlement is at the base of the hills. Idanre hills, in the past offered protection against invaders and are appeased annually.

THE NATURE OF THE HILLS

The Idanre hills are steep-sided, smooth and dome-shaped in nature. The hills, named after some historical figures in the socio-cultural evolution of Idanre land, form an inspiring sight. Examples are the Olofin and the Orosun hills named after the pioneer Oba (king) of Oke Idanre and his Olori (queen) respectively. The hills are surrounded by evergreen undulating landscape

EVIDENCE OF HUMAN HABITATION ON THE HILLS

Owa’s (king) palace courtyard with carved figures and doors believed to be built in the seventeenth (17th) century. Also present are –

Old primary school buildings

Native court building

The tombs buildings (mausoleum)

The Secretary to Owa’s (king) office building

The quarters of Oloris (queens)

MONUMENTAL FEATURES

The Agbagba Hill: This hill became popular because of Agboogun, mysterious footprints that are found on it. Tourists are allowed to put their feet into the footprints. Surprisingly and mysteriously, the footprints contract and expand to accommodate all feet put into them. It is believed that anybody whose feet do not exactly fit into the footprints is considered to be a witch or a wizard.

The Carter Hill: This hill was named after a former colonial Governor who signed a peace treaty with the Oba (king) of Idanre dated back in 1891.

The Ajimoba Hill: This hill was named after a dedicated King’s gateman.

The Ilesun Hill: This is named after a great warrior who killed his daughter in fulfillment of his vow to sacrifice the first living thing that would come his way if he should win the war he went into. The girl was buried at the base of the Ilesun Hill. Annual commemoration ceremony is observed on the hill by children of her age.

The Arun River: It is a small river found on the hill. A swim in the middle of the river gives a mysterious frightening and bustling experience. Arun is a crystal clear river where crabs and some other aquatic creatures are found.

Cultural features: gods, goddesses and traditional arts are present on the hills.



ASCENSION TO THE HILL TOP

To get to the top of the hill, tourists would have to climb six hundred and sixty seven (667) steps with five (5) resting posts along the steps where tourists can take rest. The steps and the resting places have been reconstructed while the notable historical monuments, such as the old primary school buildings, native court building, the mausoleum, the Owa’s secretary’s office, the Oloris’ quarters and the ancient palace have all been rehabilitated for conservation.

In order to complement the tourism potentials of Idanre hills, Ondo State Government has embarked on the construction of an eighteen inches hole-golf course at Atosin-Idanre and a forty bedroom hotel in collaboration with private investors. Idanre hills has been enlisted on the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage list.

Looking for an adventurous destination in Ondo State? Visit the Idanre Hills.[/img]

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