Durrow Leafy Loops - Leafy loop
PLEASE NOTE: Due to the collapse of a section of the river bank this trail has become impassable between the trailhead and Dunmore Wood meaning this section of the trail is currently closed. Work to rectify the issue will be done as quickly as possible. We apologise for any inconvenience caused.
The walk can be joined in Dunmore Wood.
This walk on country lanes, river bank, forestry paths, woodland tracks and hill paths takes the walker through mixed broadleaf and conifer woods, across farmland and along rivers, passing the ruins of Dunmore House. Lovely views of the Laois countryside with lots of diverse rural scenery and magnificent bluebells in spring.
Maps and other information
Facilities
Restaurants, shops, accommodation, car parking
Care is needed while crossing the main road. Please note sections of the loop can be prone to flooding in adverse weather conditions
OSI Maps
Catherine from Tipperary
Tina Bourke from Tipperary
Eamonn from Galway
Arrow markers are at the exact points they should be where there might have been confusion otherwise and also the fact there is brief instructions about what to do under the arrows is also a nice extra touch. This has not been the case in some other walks/hikes we've done.
The trail is well maintained with the smell of freshly cut grass very strong at some points. Also a notice giving us advanced warning that "some parts of the trail are under water" was very considerate although at no point along it did we encounter any flooding that day but you could easily see where certain places can flood.
The good variety of forest paths, roads, tracks etc along the route adds to the quality of the hike.
Leaping salmon, varieties of birds, butterflies and a squirrel showing off his climbing abilities on a tree, were just some of the nice wildlife we seen along the route.
A couple of minor things I might mention that could be done to improve the hike would be: that although the arrows were excellent I like to have route details/instructions with me in case an arrow isn't there etc.I had to go to the Discovery Ireland hiking site to get detailed instructions for this hike rather then being able to get them here at this site.
Another point would be that at the highest point of the hike, at Ballagh I think it is, that maybe the hedges could be cut back a bit so a nice view of the beautiful scenery could be seen better. We found ourselves having to try to peer through bushes and hedges to get a good look.
They are just 2 minor suggestions however as overall the hike is excellent and it is certainly an amenity that Durrow can be proud of. My wife and I highly recommend this hike to everyone and it's not a strenuous hike either so most people can do it. We'll be back:-).
Fergus from Dublin
Long walk but wouldn't say it's a hard grade, did a day trip from Dublin and had lunch and dinner in the very friendly village which shows the efforts put into the walk can really help the local economy.
Rachel from Cavan