The Carlow Autumn Walking Festival will take place from Friday 4 to Sunday 6 October 2024. With an action-packed schedule, there is something for all levels of fitness and ability.  

Giveaway!

We have teamed up with Carlow Tourism to give you’re the chance to win a weekend away in the stunning Blackstairs Eco Trails Glamping. The two night stay is valid until the end of the year (October) and next year 2025. Enter below!

    WIN! 2 nights B&B for 2 people in a shepherd's hut with Blackstairs Eco Trails glamping.

    Which river runs through Carlow?
    The LiffeyThe LeeThe Barrow

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    The Carlow Walking Festival is the place to be whether you are a seasoned hiker or are simply looking to spend more time outside. The festival will have walks that cater for those who love a leisurely walk while learning more about nature, biodiversity and their general surroundings, the walker with a thirst for history, those energised by the challenge of an invigorating mountain trek, photography enthusiasts, and those who like the stillness of mindfulness. The walks are graded and timed to ensure you choose the walk that’s right for you. The majority of walks end with light refreshments allowing participants to chat about the day with their fellow hikers.

    What to Expect

    The Carlow Autumn Walking Festival will offer a diverse range of walks across the Blackstairs Mountains, Mount Leinster, Altamont Gardens, the Barrow Way, the Kilbrannish Forest Trails, the South Leinster Way and Clogrennan Wood. The walks will all be led by experienced guides who are always more than happy to share their wealth of knowledge about the local area which is steeped in history.

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    Graded hikes for all

    The exciting programme boasts over 15 walks, graded A, B, and C based on difficulty and duration. Whether you are a leisurely stroller keen to immerse yourself in nature, a history buff with a passion for the past, an adventurer seeking the thrill of a challenging mountain trek, or a novice hillwalker, there’s something for everyone. Photography enthusiasts and those seeking mindful stillness will also find walks tailored to their interests. Each walk is thoughtfully graded and timed to suit all abilities, and all conclude with light refreshments, offering the perfect opportunity to share stories and reflections.

    Hiking highlights

    Explore the Natural Wonders of the Blackstairs

    Walk Grade: B

    Join RTÉ’s Éanna Ní Lamhna for an enlightening walk through the Blackstairs Mountains. With her wit and wisdom, Éanna will reveal diverse habitats and local birdlife, from chaffinches to ravens. Perfect for nature lovers, this walk offers a unique chance to explore wildlife and scenic hillwalking terrain.

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    Explore the History and Heritage of the Blackstairs Mountains

    Walk Grade: B

    Uncover the rich history etched into its rugged landscape. Led by local experts, this six-hour hike offers fascinating insights into the area’s ancient past, with plenty of stops to explore its stories. Perfect for history buffs and the curious alike, it’s a unique chance to connect with this special heritage.

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    Outdoor Mindfulness Walk in Altamont Gardens

    Walk Grade: C

    Altamont Gardens, one of Ireland’s top three gardens, offers the perfect setting to practise mindfulness and reconnect with nature. This walk provides practical tips for boosting mental and physical health, along with easy mindfulness techniques you can use daily.

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    Other Highlights

    Throughout the weekend, the schedule includes many more amazing walks. No matter which walks you choose you are guaranteed to come away from the weekend with a great sense of achievement and a few new hiking friends to boot.

    The festival runs from Friday 4 to Sunday 6 October 2024.

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    For further information on the walks, starting points, rules of participation and to book the walks, check out www.carlowtourism.com/walkingfestival.

    Details of special accommodation packages are available at www.carlowtourism.com/specialoffers.

    “By introducing our county to walkers of all ages and abilities, we hope we are playing our part in encouraging more people to enjoy the splendour of the great outdoors whilst reaping the health benefits associated with walking,” 

    Michael Walsh, chairman of Carlow Tourism

    By Killian Andersen

    1. May 26, 2022

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