The Carlow Autumn Walking Festival 2025 will take place from Friday 3 to Sunday 5 October 2025. With an action-packed schedule, there is something for all levels of fitness and ability.  

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The Carlow Walking Festival 2025 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 2025 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 environmentalist Éanna Ní Lamhna for an enlightening walk through the Blackstairs Mountains. With her signature wit, Éanna will guide you through diverse habitats, from conifer plantations to upland bogs, sharing insights into local wildlife. Discover birdlife, including chaffinches, ravens, and goldfinches, while appreciating the natural world around you. This walk is perfect for nature enthusiasts and offers a wonderful hillwalking experience in the stunning scenery of the Blackstairs.

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Take Your Skills to the Next Level

Walk Grade: A

This challenging Grade A walk offers a true mountain experience in the Blackstairs range, starting with Tomduff Hill and featuring stunning views across Carlow and Wexford. The route includes Slievebawn, which provides a sense of solitude and panoramic vistas, and climbs to Mount Leinster, the highest peak at 795m, boasting views stretching to the Wicklow Mountains and beyond. Walkers will also traverse Blackrock Mountain, known for its dramatic rocky outcrops and valley views. Participants will learn navigation and orienteering skills along the way. Led by a professional Mountaineering Ireland course director and qualified mountain leader, safety and expert guidance are ensured. Normal hill walking gear is essential.

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Mindful Steps, A Wellness Walk through Clogrennan Wood

Walk Grade: C

Join mindfulness expert Mary Clare Harte for a restorative walk in Clogrennane Wood, surrounded by the beautiful views of Carlow and the River Barrow. This experience offers practical tips for cultivating a positive mindset while enjoying nature. Step away from daily demands and discover how walking and mindfulness can enhance your well-being.

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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 3 to Sunday 5 October 2025

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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

    Outsider magazine do you want to come coasteering in Dublin with us. 0873669999 [email protected]

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