View MapView Map
Glenafelly Eco Walk
Kinnitty, Co. Offaly
Dog friendly
Family friendly
Free to visit
Free car parking
This recreation area takes visitors into the more remote parts of the Slieve Blooms Mountains and allows walkers to explore the geology and former uses of this upland area.

Situated near the entrance on private land opposite the car park is the Fiddlers Rock. This great stone of quartzite was erected in prehistoric times and demonstrattes man's long occupation of this valley.

Directions to Glenafelly Eco Walk

Travel to the village of Kinnitty which is located on the R421 between the towns of Mountmellick and Birr. From the village, take the ‘high’ road (towards Roscrea) also signposted for Glenafelly, after 1km, turn left at a road junction signposted Old Munster Road. The entrance to the forest is on the left after a further 1.5km.

The Glenafelly Eco Walk passes through mature and semimature follows along both sides of a quiet and remote river valley leading into the townland of Barcam at the top of the valley. The open lower slopes of the valley along the river banks contrast withe the seclusion of the more heavily wooded upper section. Native broadleaved tree species such as birch and alder and conifer tress such as Norway spruce and sitka spruce can be found in the valley. Foxglove, bracken, thistle, heather, bilberry and holly are also evident along the trail.

Look out for evidence of the animal life in the valley which includes fallow deer, badger, fox, pine marten and wood mouse. Birds of the valley include jay, raven, crow, dipper, hen harrier and bullfinch.

The Slieve Bloom Way runs beside the forest entrance on the public road and can be used to link with other loop routes in the Slieve Blooms.

Trail details

Type:
Walking Trail
Location:
Glenafelly Forest Recreation Area
Grade:
Moderate
Format:
Loop
Length:
7.565710317km
Ascent:
60m
Dogs allowed:
Yes
Time:
2 hours
Nearest town start:
Kinnity
Nearest town finish:
Kinnity
Start point:
Forest Car Park
Finish point:
Forest Car Park
Waymarking:
Red
Contact details
Glenafelly,Kinnity,Co Offaly
Leave no trace
  • Plan ahead and prepare
  • Be considerate of others
  • Respect farm animals and wildlife
  • Travel and camp on durable ground
  • Leave what you find
  • Dispose of waste properly
  • Minimise the effects of fire
Mail Icon SVG

Subscribe now to receive destination inspiration, travel tips, upcoming events and all the best things to do around Ireland.