Overview
Clonaslee (Irish: Cluain na Slí, meaning “meadow of the way”) rests on the R422 between Mountmellick and Birr, roughly 100 km west of Dublin. With a population of around 600, it operates less as a tourist hub and more as a working midland village that happens to sit at the doorstep of one of Ireland’s most rugged upland areas. Its name alone hints at its historical function as a stopping point on ancient cross-country routes, and today it serves as the primary northern access point to the Slieve Bloom Mountains.
History & Heritage
The area’s roots predate the village itself. A church founded in the 7th century by Saint Manman established the original parish of Kilmanman, laying the groundwork for centuries of continuous settlement. Earthworks and ringforts in the surrounding townlands suggest activity stretching back to the early medieval period, when the landscape was shaped by small farming communities.
The Anglo-Norman arrival in the late 12th century brought strategic fortifications to the area, taking advantage of natural eskers for defensive mottes. By the 16th century, the Dunne family of Brittas had become the dominant local force. Their influence is still visible in the landscape: the ruins of Ballinakill Castle stand on the banks of the River Clodiagh, while Clara Hill holds the remnants of a former Dunne residence. The 19th century saw a period of civic improvement, including the construction of the current parish church in 1814 and the upgrading of the Mountmellick-to-Birr road, which brought a post office, police barracks, and steady trade to the settlement.
Walking & Outdoor Routes
Clonaslee’s greatest asset for visitors is its position on the Slieve Bloom Way, an 85 km long-distance trail that links Laois and Offaly. The first stage of the route finishes here, making it a natural turnaround point or a base for tackling the northern slopes.
For those preferring shorter circuits, Brittas Forest offers a network of marked trails managed by Coillte. The Brittas Lake Loop follows the River Clodiagh through mature conifer and broadleaf stands, while the Rickets Rock Loop combines minor roads and forestry tracks into a manageable circuit suitable for families. More experienced walkers can tackle the Glendineoregan Loop, which climbs into open moorland and offers sweeping views across the midlands. All trails are freely accessible year-round, and dogs are welcome on most routes. Waymarks are clearly visible, with blue arrows guiding the forest loops and the standard yellow walking man signposting the Slieve Bloom Way.
Village Life & Facilities
Despite its size, Clonaslee maintains a functional high street with local pubs, a post office, and a Garda station. The area’s Gaelic Athletic Association club, Clonaslee–St Manman’s, anchors much of the community calendar, with matches and club events drawing locals throughout the year. For dining, the village’s traditional pubs serve straightforward meals and provide a reliable stop after a day on the trails. Visitors looking for a wider selection of restaurants or accommodation will find plenty of options in nearby Mountmellick, Portlaoise, or Tullamore, all within a 20-minute drive.
Getting There & Practical Tips
- By car: The M7/N7 from Dublin drops you off at Portlaoise. Take the R422 westbound for approximately 30 km to reach Clonaslee.
- By bus: Regional services connect the village to Tullamore and Mountmellick, with onward links to Dublin and Portlaoise. Check current timetables before travelling, as rural routes often run on reduced schedules on Sundays and public holidays.
- By train: Portlaoise is the nearest station, served by the Dublin Heuston to Galway/Cork line. A taxi or local bus is required for the final leg to Clonaslee.
- Parking: Free parking is available at the Brittas Forest recreation area and along Main Street.
- Connectivity: Eir and Three provide reliable mobile coverage in the village and along the main trails. Vodafone signal can drop in the deeper sections of the forest, so downloading offline maps is recommended.
- Best time to visit: Spring and early autumn offer the most comfortable walking conditions, with fewer midges and clearer views across the Slieve Bloom range. Winter visits are possible but require waterproof footwear and layers, as the upland weather changes quickly.
Nearby Attractions
A short drive from Clonaslee opens up several of Laois’s most visited heritage sites. Emo Court’s 18th-century neoclassical house and walled gardens provide a refined contrast to the rugged trails, while the Rock of Dunamase offers hilltop ruins and long-distance views across the county. Further south, Abbeyleix combines Georgian architecture with access to the surrounding boglands, and the Laois Monastic Trail connects several early medieval sites across the region.
Clonaslee works best as a base rather than a destination in itself. Plan your visit around the walking routes, allow extra time for the Slieve Bloom Way stages, and keep an eye on the weather forecast before heading into the forest.