Carlow Autumn Walking Festival

There’s something truly magical about walking in the Blackstairs Mountains after dark – the serenity of nature becomes even more profound, with the soft sounds of the night and the twinkling lights of towns and villages far below. As you journey through the autumn darkness, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of County Carlow – a torch is essential.

For those seeking a rewarding and invigorating challenge, the Scullogue Gap hike is an ideal choice. This hike offers the perfect combination of breath-taking scenery and exercise, taking in several of the highest peaks in the Blackstairs Mountains. Starting from the picturesque Scullogue Gap, this route leads you through some of the most stunning landscapes in County Carlow, with sweeping vistas that are sure to inspire.

Join renowned environmentalist and RTÉ personality Éanna Ní Lamhna for a walk that’s as enlightening as it is enjoyable. With her trademark wit and wisdom, Éanna guides you through the diverse habitats of the Blackstairs Mountains, sharing fascinating insights into the natural world. This walk offers a unique opportunity to explore everything from conifer plantations and upland bogs to hedgerows and scrub, each teaming with life.

Join us for a guided walk through the Blackstairs Mountains, where you’ll discover the fascinating history of the area. Led by knowledgeable local guides, this six-hour mountain trek offers a deep dive into the area’s ancient past, revealing the many stories etched into its rugged landscape.

This walk offers an excellent introduction to the stunning landscape of the Blackstairs Mountains, featuring some of its most prominent peaks, including Blackstairs Mountain (733 meters) and the historic site of Caher Roe’s Den (564 meters).

This walk begins at the well-known viewing spot the Nine Stones, where walkers will be treated to breath-taking views before descending towards the cattle grid on the Mountain Road. The route then loops around Tomduff, leading up to the cairn on Slievebawn and returns to the Nine Stones vantage point. Here, you can take in an unrivalled panorama of Carlow’s rich and colourful countryside, stretching across the southeast like a vibrant tapestry. On clear days, you might even catch a glimpse of the distant Welsh coastline.

Ever wanted to capture the beauty of the outdoors in stunning photographs? Join us for an informative photographic walk led by by Richard Smyth, LIPF, where you’ll learn the basic principles of outdoor photography. Whether you’re using a camera or a mobile phone, this walk offers practical tips and techniques to help you take your photography skills to the next level.

Join mindfulness expert Jackie Byrne for a restorative mindfulness walk through the serene Clogrennane Wood, where you’ll be surrounded by the magnificent views of Carlow and the River Barrow.

This walk takes you from the historic village of St. Mullins, a location rich in heritage and natural beauty, along the tranquil towpath in the direction of the charming town of Graiguenamanagh before turning after approx. 75 minutes to return to the quayside in St. Mullins.

Starting from the Nine Stones you ascend Mount Leinster in a southerly direction. From the TV mast you proceed onto Knockroe before descending into Scullogue Gap. From there the walk again ascends onto the Blackstairs Mountains with stunning views over Carlow and Wexford before finishing in Knockmulgurry.

This mountain walk provides an insight into the skills required for hill walking to ensure you get the most from future walking trips. While not a formal course, areas covered will include map reading and navigation. Taking in the forestry trails at Deerpark, the walk then continues onto Greenoge passing the wind turbine station before descending to Corrabut Gap. From there the walk continues through Kilbrannish South Forest along the Black Banks finishing at the famed viewing spot of the Nine Stones. This walk provides great variety for those interested in learning how to navigate different landscapes within the mountains and will include some navigation/orienteering tips. Led by a professional mountaineering Ireland course director and mountain leader. Normal hill walking gear required.

Running from Drummond to Knockmulgurry, this walk starts at the southern end of the Blackstairs range, before continuing northwards to Carriagalachan Gap and then downwards to Knockmulgurry, near the village of Ballymurphy. Fabulous views of the south Blackstairs area.

This walk commences at Rathnageeragh Castle (in ruins) before ascending Slievebawn and then descending into Tomduff. The walk then passes through Raheenkyle and Raheendarragh before ascending once again to finish at the Nine Stones Vantage Point.

Join us for a guided walk through the Blackstairs Mountains, where you’ll discover the fascinating history of the area. Led by knowledgeable local guides, this six-hour mountain trek offers a deep dive into the area’s ancient past, revealing the many stories etched into its rugged landscape.

There could hardly be a better location in County Carlow to practise the principles of mindfulness and to begin to understand about its helpful benefits to our daily lives. Altamont Gardens, often referred to as one of Ireland’s top three gardens, is a superb setting to re-connect with nature and experience the restorative power of its trees and well-maintained landscapes.

Join us for a relaxing Sunday stroll along the Barrow Track from Milford to Carlow Town, a great way to unwind and enjoy the vibrant autumnal colours of the season. The gentle pace of the route makes it accessible for all, while the lush greenery and serene riverside views provide a tranquil escape.