Overview
The Coumduala Loop is a strenuous circular walk on the western flank of the Comeragh Mountains. Starting and finishing at the Nire Valley Car Park just outside Ballymacarbry, the route weaves sand roads, quiet lanes, rugged mountain tracks and open hillside terrain. Depending on whether the optional Sgilloges Lakes side‑track is taken, the loop measures between 6.6 km and 8 km (4–5 mi) and gains 350–540 m of elevation, delivering a rewarding sense of accomplishment and 360° vistas over the Nire Valley, the Comeragh plateau and, on clear days, Slievenamon.
History & Background
The walk forms part of the wider Nire Valley Trails network, a Fáilte Ireland National Looped Walking Trail managed by Waterford City & County Council. The land is a patchwork of privately‑owned fields; local landowners have granted permissive access, and the loop is closed for a single day each year – the third Thursday of December – to allow undisturbed land management.
The Irish word coum means “hollow”. Coumlara translates to “hollow where the river forks” and refers to a dry coum that historically guided farmers and travellers. The trail follows sections of The Gap (locally Sli na Sochraid or Bóithrín na Sochraide), a natural mountain pass that linked the Nire Valley to Rathgormack for centuries and was once the route for carrying the dead to the parish church.
What to See & Do
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Coumduala Lough | A tranquil lake set against the backdrop of the Comeragh peaks. |
| Coumlara Hollow | A quiet, dry coum offering a peaceful spot for a short rest. |
| The Gap (Sli na Sochraid / Bóithrín na Sochraide) | A dramatic saddle with sweeping views down the Nire Valley and up toward higher ridges; historically a funeral road. |
| Knockanaffrin Ridge Viewing Platform | Modest platform on the ridge with 360° outlooks, including Slievenamon on a clear day. |
| Sgilloges Lakes Detour | Optional 30‑minute side‑track to two glacial lakes; one lake is crowned by the Bean Píobra waterfall, whose spray can look like ghostly smoke. |
| River Nire Crossing | A sturdy footbridge early in the circuit provides a pleasant riverside perspective. |
The ascent brings hikers past open heath, sheep‑grazed fields and alpine flora, culminating in expansive panoramas that stretch to the Slieve Gullion range, Tramore Bay and Hook Head.
Trail Running & Fitness
Because the waymarks are clear and the terrain varies from gentle sand‑road sections to steeper ridge climbs, the loop is popular with experienced trail runners. A typical fast run can be completed in about an hour, though most walkers allow 3½–4 hours to enjoy the scenery and optional detours.
Practical Information
- Difficulty: Strenuous; suitable for walkers with a good level of fitness.
- Length: Officially 8 km (as per Sport Ireland) with an optional 30‑minute Sgilloges Lakes side‑track.
- Ascent: 540 m.
- Estimated time: 4 hours (including optional detours).
- Waymarking: Purple arrows on a white background for the main loop; red arrows for the Coumlara section.
- Dogs: Not permitted.
- Access: Free parking at the Nire Valley Car Park (grid reference S 277 128, 52.266829 N, ‑7.595174 W). From Dungarvan take the N72 west, turn right onto the R672, continue onto the R671 and follow signs for Knockaun.
- Map: Coumlara Loop Map (PDF). The route is also shown on OS Discovery Series Sheet 75.
- Facilities: No admission fee; water and toilet facilities are limited, so carry sufficient supplies.
- Season: Open year‑round except the third Thursday of December when the loop is closed for land‑owner access.
Nearby Attractions & Extensions
After completing the loop, consider a short stroll into Ballymacarbry for a coffee or explore the surrounding Comeragh Mountains for longer hikes such as the The Gap Walk. The Sgilloges Lakes and Bean Píobra waterfall make a pleasant half‑day extension, while the Knockanaffrin Ridge Viewing Platform offers a rewarding photo opportunity.
Enjoy the rugged beauty, historic ambience and sweeping vistas that make the Coumduala Loop one of County Waterford’s most rewarding mountain walks.