Starting in the tranquil Ballycrystal Valley, this walk ascends through forest trails and along an old mountain track, originally built during the Emergency to facilitate the extraction of turf. The route climbs to Blackrock Mountain, where walkers are treated to sweeping views of the Slaney River Valley stretching eastwards to the Wicklow Mountains.

From Blackrock, the trail follows the ridge to Mount Leinster, the highest point of the Blackstairs Mountains. Here, panoramic vistas extend across Carlow, Kilkenny, and Wexford, and on clear days, even further afield.

The descent continues southwards to Knockroe, reaching its summit via another historic mountain track. From the top, you can take in views over the Barrow Valley and the southern reaches of the Blackstairs. Along the way, walkers will encounter the Dolmen known as the Giant’s Table, a fascinating ancient landmark nestled on the slopes of Knockroe.

The walk concludes as you follow Shannon’s Lane, winding down to the Scullogue Gap.