- Brandon Hill Summit Loop: moderate to challenging ascent (around 8–10 km loop, 3–4 hours) from Graiguenamanagh or the lower car park, climbing to Kilkenny’s highest point at 515 metres. The well-marked path traverses forested slopes and open moorland to a summit cross, rewarding with panoramic views over the Barrow Valley, Blackstairs Mountains, and distant Mount Leinster – a classic county high-point hike rich in flora and folklore.
- South Leinster Way (Graiguenamanagh to Inistioge Sections): Scenic day sections (10–15 km) of this long-distance trail following quiet country lanes, woodland paths, and riverside tracks along the River Nore. Highlights include picturesque villages, historic bridges, and lush valley scenery; gentle terrain with occasional climbs makes it ideal for immersing in Kilkenny’s tranquil rural heartland.
- Tory Hill Trail: rewarding moderate loop (around 5–7 km) near Mullinavat, ascending the distinctive 291-metre Tory Hill through mixed woodland and open hillside. The route passes ancient ring forts and a holy well, culminating in expansive views across south Kilkenny, the Suir Valley, and Waterford’s Comeragh Mountains – steeped in 1798 Rebellion history and local legend.
- Jenkinstown Wood Loops: Gentle, family-friendly forested circuits (main loop around 4–5 km, with shorter options) through the beautiful 200-hectare Jenkinstown Park near Kilkenny City. Well-maintained paths wind past mature oak, beech, and conifer stands, a tranquil lake, and herds of fallow deer – a peaceful woodland escape with picnic spots and striking seasonal colour.
- Woodstock Gardens and Arboretum Trails: Easy to moderate interconnected walks (up to 5 km combined) through the restored 19th-century gardens and arboretum above Inistioge. Serene paths explore formal terraces, rare tree collections, monkey puzzle avenues, and panoramic overlooks of the Nore Valley – blending horticultural beauty with gentle riverside and woodland strolling in one of Kilkenny’s most elegant historic demesnes.
Hiking
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