- Slieve Bloom Way (Selected Loops, e.g., Glenbarrow to The Cut): Sections of this classic 70 km long-distance trail offer moderate looped day hikes (10–15 km) through the gentle Slieve Bloom Mountains. Starting points like Glenbarrow feature riverside paths, cascading waterfalls along the River Barrow, mature conifer forests, and open moorland with panoramic views over central Ireland – a tranquil upland escape in one of Ireland’s oldest mountain ranges.
- Ridge of Capard Summit Trail: rewarding moderate ascent (around 6–8 km return) from the Capard car park to the 493-metre Ridge of Capard, Laois’s highest point. The well-marked path climbs through forestry and open heather moorland, passing a prominent transmitter mast, to expansive 360-degree vistas across the Midlands, distant mountains, and endless boglands – ideal for a sense of serene elevation without extreme difficulty.
- Glenbarrow Waterfall Trail: An easy to moderate riverside loop (about 5–7 km) in the Slieve Blooms near Rosenallis, following the wooded valley of the River Barrow to a series of picturesque waterfalls, including the impressive Clamp Hole cascade. Lush oak woodland, mossy rocks, and abundant wildlife make it a family-friendly favourite with enchanting forest scenery.
- Fossy Mountain Loop: peaceful moderate hill walk (around 7–9 km) near Timahoe, ascending the low but prominent Fossy Mountain through quiet farmland, forestry tracks, and open hillside. The route rewards with sweeping views over the Laois lowlands, Rock of Dunamase, and the Slieve Blooms – a lesser-known gem offering solitude and classic Midlands countryside charm.
- Heywood Gardens and Forest Trails: Gentle, interconnected walks (up to 5 km combined) through the beautifully restored early-20th-century gardens and surrounding woodlands near Ballinakill. Serene paths explore formal terraces, lakes, rare trees, and wildflower meadows designed by Edwin Lutyens – blending elegant horticultural beauty with relaxing woodland strolls in one of Laois’s most picturesque demesnes.
Hiking
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