Discover the Beauty of Carlow on Foot at the Carlow Autumn Walking Festival 2026
Some places are best discovered on foot, and Carlow is one of them. Carlow Tourism is inviting walkers from across Ireland to lace up their boots and experience some of the county’s spectacular scenery as the Carlow Autumn Walking Festival returns from Friday, October 2nd to Sunday, October 4th 2026. Taking place throughout the beautiful countryside of County Carlow, the festival is a great way to explore the Blackstairs Mountains and some of the county’s most treasured walking routes in the company of experienced local guides and fellow walkers, while enjoying the warm friendship, shared experiences and welcoming atmosphere that characterise this festival.
The festival celebrates the remarkable diversity of Carlow’s walking experiences, from rugged mountain trails and historic routes to nature-focused walks that showcase the area’s rich wildlife, biodiversity and heritage. With walks graded according to difficulty and duration, there is something to suit hillwalkers who are looking to enjoy an active weekend in Ireland’s Ancient East.
A and B Walks
A and B Walks will once again be led by experienced guides from Tullow Mountaineering and Blackstairs Ramblers Clubs and by local company Mountain Adventures 74, offering participants the chance to explore the county’s finest landscapes while learning about the history, geology, biodiversity and the flora and fauna that make this area so special.
Highlights of this year’s programme include:
- Due to popular demand the Night Hike is now available on both Friday, October 2nd and Saturday, October 3rd, offering walkers a magical opportunity to experience the tranquillity of the Blackstairs Mountains after dark and enjoy spectacular views of twinkling lights across the county – B Walk.
- The challenging Scullogue Gap Hike, taking walkers across some of the highest peaks in the Blackstairs Mountains and delivering some of the finest panoramic views in the region – A Walk.
- Exploring the Natural Wonders of the Blackstairs Mountains with renowned broadcaster, biologist and environmentalist Éanna Ní Lamhna, offering participants a fascinating insight into the flora, fauna and ecology of this unique landscape – B Walk.
- The popular Blackstairs Peaks Walk, featuring Blackstairs Mountain and the historic Caher Roe’s Den – B Walk
- Mount Leinster to Kildavin, offering breathtaking views across the south-east and, on a clear day, even as far as Wales – B Walk
- The history and heritage of the Blackstairs Mountains walk reveals the stories, traditions and historic landmarks hidden within this rugged landscape.
Sunday’s programme includes the demanding Blackstairs Circuit, the scenic South Blackstairs Ridge Walk from Drummond to Knockmulgurry, and the Ballycrystal to Scullogue Gap Ridge Walk, each showcasing the very best of Carlow’s mountain scenery.
C Walks
The full programme of C or leisure walks designed for walkers seeking a gentler pace, will be announced in early September. These walks are suitable for beginner and recreational walkers and provide an excellent way to discover Carlow’s countryside, heritage and natural beauty in a relaxed atmosphere. So make sure to save the date and mark your calendar.
“The Carlow Autumn Walking Festival continues to be one of the highlights of our events calendar, attracting walkers from across Ireland to experience the wonderful landscapes and outdoor experiences that County Carlow has to offer. This year’s programme features some of the most spectacular mountain walks together with nature and heritage experiences that showcase the richness of the Blackstairs region. We look forward to welcoming both returning visitors and first-time participants to Carlow this October.”
All walks conclude with refreshments and provide an opportunity for participants to relax, share experiences and enjoy the unique camaraderie that has become synonymous with the Carlow Autumn Walking Festival.
Full programme details and booking information are available at www.carlowtourism.com/walkingfestival or by calling 059 9130411.
For further information contact:
Eileen O’Rourke
Carlow Tourism
E: eorourke@carlowtourism.com
T: 087-2379213
W: www.carlowtourism.com/walkingfestival
