The Laois Walks Festival continues this week with a selection of attractive walks around the county.
From the renowned Rock of Dunamaise to the Capponellan Woods in Durrow and Rossmore in Killeshin, there is something in almost every corner of Laois.
They adhere to the ‘Countryside Code’ of leaving no trace, walking in single file and respecting private property and the rural environment.
No dogs are allowed. The cost per walk is €2 or you can buy a festival ticket for €25 which covers every walk over the course of the month.
For further information contact Susan Lawlor, who is the festival co-ordinator, on 087 2574477 or Peter Maher, who is the Rural Recreation Officer in Laois County Council, on 057 8661900 or by emailing info@
Walkers are advised to register 30 minutes prior to the start of each walk and to wear comfortable walking boots/shoes.
They are also encouraged to bring raingear, sufficient food and water for the duration of the walk.
Grade A – Strenuous; Grade B – Difficult; Grade C – Moderate
SATURDAY, JULY 7
Rock of Dunamaise/Dysart Woods
Take in the wonderful views from the Rock of Dunamaise and stroll along the woodland paths of Dysart Woods.
Meet: Dysart Wood Car Park
Time: 2.30pm
Distance: 10km
Difficulty: Grade B
Length: 3 hours
SUNDAY, JULY 8
Oakvale Woods, Stradbally
Explore the forest on Cobbler’s Walk, passing a Mass Rock, lime kilns and the gate of the Cobbler’s Castle folly.
Meet: Oakvale Wood Car Park
Time: 2.30pm
Distance: Grade B
Difficulty: 10
Length: 2.5 hours
MONDAY, JULY 9
Mountmellick Family Walk
Enjoy a gentle stroll around quiet roads and streets of Mountmellick suitable for buggies and wheelchairs.
Meet: MDA Museum
Time: 7.30pm
Distance: 7km
Difficulty: Grade C
Length: 1.5 hours
TUESDAY, JULY 10
Spink
A challenging walk traversing the hills of the 16th Century Cooper estate with spectacular views of Laois, Carlow, Waterford, Kildare and Tipperary
Meet: Knock Church, Spink
Time: 7.30pm
Distance: 10km
Difficulty: Grade A
Length: 2.5 hours
WEDNESDAY, JULY 11
Grantstown
Quiet roads, laneways, Grantstown lake and countryside views
Meet: Gates of the lake
Time: 7.30pm
Distance: 10km
Difficulty: Grade B
Length: 2.5 hours
THURSDAY, JULY 12
Rossmore, Killeshin
This walk is a must for the wonderful views of the Barrow valley, Dublin and Wicklow mountains
Meet: Oisin Park
Time: 7.30pm
Distance: 10km
Difficulty: Grade B
Length: 2.5 hours
SATURDAY, JULY 14
Capponellan Woods, Durrow
Woodland walk through part of the Castle Durrow estate once owned by Lord Ashbrooke
Meet: Capponellan Woods Car Park
Time: 2.30pm
Distance: 10km
Difficulty: Grade B
Length: 2.5 hours
SEE ALSO – The full list of what’s on in July in the Laois Walks Festival
