- Ballykeeffe Wood Loop: A 6-km moderate circular trail in Ballykeeffe Wood, near Kilmanagh. This 1.5-2 hour hike winds through mixed forest, with gentle climbs offering views of the Slieveardagh Hills. Suitable for most fitness levels, it’s a quiet escape with picnic spots and natural charm.
- Brandon Hill Loop: A 17-km challenging loop to Brandon Hill (515m), Kilkenny’s highest peak, starting near Graiguenamanagh. This 5-hour hike through forest and open moorland offers panoramic views of the Blackstairs Mountains and River Barrow. Best for experienced hikers due to steep, rugged sections. Suitable for fit walkers, with some steep sections requiring sturdy footwear.
- Castlecomer Discovery Park Trails: A network of 3-6 km easy trails in Castlecomer Discovery Park, featuring woodlands, lakes, and a tree-top adventure course. These 1-2 hour walks showcase biodiversity and historical mining sites. Perfect for families or beginners, with amenities like a cafe on-site.
- Dunmore Cave and Countryside Walk: A 3-km easy circular trail near Dunmore Cave, combining a visit to the cave (optional) with a countryside walk through fields and hedgerows. This 1-hour trail offers gentle terrain, historical intrigue, and views of rolling hills, suitable for all ages and abilities.
- Freshford Loop Walk: A 9-km moderate circular trail starting in Freshford, passing woodlands, farmland, and the Nuenna River. This 2.5-hour walk offers tranquil countryside views and historical sites like old mills. Ideal for those seeking a peaceful hike with gentle terrain.
- Goresbridge River Walk: A 5-km easy loop along the River Barrow, starting at Goresbridge. This 1.5-hour flat trail follows the towpath, passing locks and weirs, with chances to spot herons and otters. Perfect for families or casual walkers, with a peaceful, waterside setting.
- Jenkinstown Wood Trail: A 4-km easy loop in Jenkinstown Park, near Kilkenny city, through mixed woodlands of oak and beech. This 1-hour trail features a fairy tree, picnic areas, and chances to spot deer. Family-friendly with well-marked paths, it’s great for a short nature escape.
- Jerpoint Park and Abbey Trail: A 4-km easy loop near Thomastown, starting at Jerpoint Park. This 1-hour walk explores the medieval Jerpoint Abbey ruins and the lost village of Newtown Jerpoint, with River Nore views. Ideal for all ages, offering a mix of history and scenic beauty.
- Kilkenny Castle Park Walk: A 2-km easy loop through the 50-acre parkland of Kilkenny Castle in the city center. This 45-minute stroll features manicured lawns, rose gardens, and canal paths along the River Nore, with views of the medieval castle. Family-friendly and accessible, it’s perfect for a relaxed outing..
- Nore Valley Way (Kilkenny to Bennettsbridge: A 10.5-km easy linear trail along the River Nore, starting in Kilkenny city. This 2.5-3 hour walk passes lush meadows, woodlands, and the historic Bennettsbridge. Ideal for families and casual walkers, it offers serene river views and wildlife like kingfishers, with flat, accessible paths.
- South Leinster Way (Graiguenamanagh to Inistioge: A 13-km moderate linear section of the South Leinster Way, following the River Barrow towpath. This 3-4 hour trail offers scenic riverside views, woodland paths, and historical sites like Duiske Abbey. Ideal for those seeking a longer walk with cultural highlights.
- Tory Hill Loop: A 7-km moderate trail near Mullinavat, climbing Tory Hill (292m) for views of the Suir Valley and Comeragh Mountains. This 2-hour hike includes forest tracks and open fields, with folklore about the hill’s ancient significance. Suitable for moderate fitness levels, with a holy well adding intrigue.
- Woodstock Gardens and Arboretum Trail: A 3-4 km easy walk through Woodstock Gardens, near Inistioge. This 1-hour trail explores restored Victorian gardens, a walled garden, and exotic trees, with views of the Nore Valley. Ideal for families or those seeking a gentle, scenic stroll with historical charm.
Walking
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