Overview
The East Munster Way is a 69–70 km linear long‑distance trail that straddles the border between County Tipperary and County Waterford. Designated as a National Waymarked Trail, it is marked by a yellow arrow on a black background and is typically walked over three days. The route forms a key segment of the European E8 walking network, which stretches from Dursey Island in County Cork to Istanbul, Turkey.
Starting at the historic Ormond Castle in Carrick‑on‑Suir, the trail follows the gentle bends of the River Suir, climbs into the foothills of the Comeragh Mountains, skirts the northern flanks of the Knockmealdown range, and finishes in the quiet market town of Clogheen. With a total ascent of 1 375 m, the walk offers a varied mix of riverside towpaths, quiet forestry tracks, and open mountain moorland.
History & Background
The East Munster Way was officially opened in July 1988 by Frank Fahey, then Minister of State for Youth and Sport. Originally known simply as the Munster Way, it was renamed to reflect its eastern alignment within the province. Management of the trail is a partnership between Tipperary County Council, Coillte, and Waterford County Council, under the oversight of the National Trails Office of the Irish Sports Council.
As part of the E8, the East Munster Way links the South Leinster Way at Carrick‑on‑Suir and the Blackwater Way at Clogheen, creating a continuous walking corridor across the south‑east of Ireland. A 2010 review highlighted modest day‑use but low multiday traffic, prompting recommendations for a dedicated trail‑management committee and the rerouting of sections that currently run on tarred roads.
What to See & Do
| Section | Highlights | Terrain |
|---|---|---|
| Carrick‑on‑Suir → Kilsheelan | Ormond Castle, Suir Blueway, otters & herons, historic bridges | Riverside tow‑path, some tarmac sections |
| Kilsheelan → Clonmel | Gurteen Wood (Coillte‑managed), views of the Comeragh foothills, village charm | Forestry tracks, gentle climbs |
| Clonmel → Fourmilewater | Vibrant town of Clonmel, Holy Cross (Stations of the Cross), Carey’s Castle ruins | Mixed road & footpath, occasional over‑grown sections |
| Fourmilewater → Goatenbridge | Scenic ridge walks with Knockmealdown panoramas | Open moorland, short steep climbs |
| Goatenbridge → Clogheen | Final descent into Clogheen, historic parish church | Quiet country roads |
Walkers can spot river wildlife such as otters and herons, especially on the Suir stretch between Carrick‑on‑Suir and Clonmel. The forested section around Gurteen Wood offers a chance to hear native birds and explore a network of well‑maintained tracks. The Knockmealdown flank provides some of the most dramatic vistas on the route, with sweeping views over the Suir valley and the distant Slievenamon.
Historic points of interest include Ormond Castle, the medieval ruins of Carey’s Castle (a 19th‑century schoolmaster’s stronghold with Gothic and Norman features), and the Holy Cross monument that dominates the landscape above Clonmel. These sites add a cultural layer to the natural scenery, making the walk appealing to both history enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Practical Information
The trail is open year‑round and there is no admission fee. Because the route traverses privately owned sections, dogs are not recommended unless you have confirmed local permissions. Waymarking is generally reliable, though several user reviews note occasional missing signs, particularly around Russellstown Wood and the Clonmel‑Fourmilewater stretch. Carrying a detailed map (available from Sport Ireland or the downloadable PDFs on the Waterford tourism site) is advisable.
Trail basics
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Length | 69–70 km |
| Typical duration | 3 days (average 23 km per day) |
| Grade | Moderate |
| Total ascent | 1 375 m |
| Waymark | Yellow arrow on black background |
| Start point | Ormond Castle, Carrick‑on‑Suir (Grid Ref. S 404 217; 52.34551, ‑7.40711) |
| End point | Clogheen (Grid Ref. S 004 138; 52.276, ‑7.99413) |
| Parking | Free parking at the trailheads in Carrick‑on‑Suir and Clogheen; additional parking at Carey’s Castle (Coillte woodland) |
| Maps | East Munster Way Map (Sport Ireland) – PDF; also downloadable maps from Waterford tourism |
| Public transport | Expressway bus services connect Cork, Dublin, Galway and Waterford to Carrick‑on‑Suir; limited local Bus Éireann services (check schedules, especially on Sundays). Rail connections are available via Iarnród Éireann to nearby stations; check current timetables. |
| Accommodation | Walkers should pre‑arrange lodging in Carrick‑on‑Suir, Kilsheelan, Clonmel, Fourmilewater and Clogheen. Options range from B&Bs to guesthouses. |
| Facilities | Water points are plentiful along the Suir; a café exists in Clogheen. |
Because sections of the route run on quiet tarmac roads, cyclists occasionally share the path, and some users report litter from cyclists on the tow‑path. The trail’s management team encourages a “Leave No Trace” ethic, and walkers are asked to respect private land boundaries and avoid disturbing livestock.
Navigation
While the yellow arrow waymarks are the primary guide, the trail intersects with the Tipperary Way markings in a few places. GPS coordinates for the two trailheads are provided above; many walkers use handheld GPS devices or smartphone apps to stay on course, especially in the less‑marked forest sections.
Seasonal considerations
The Suir can rise after heavy rain, briefly flooding low‑lying tow‑path sections. However, the majority of the route remains passable year‑round. The higher Knockmealdown sections may be windier in late autumn, offering dramatic cloud‑filled panoramas.
Getting There
By road – The trailheads are easily reached via the N24 (Carrick‑on‑Suir) and the R665 (Clogheen). Free parking is available at both ends.
By public transport – Expressway coach services link major cities (Cork, Dublin, Galway, Waterford) to Carrick‑on‑Suir. Local Bus Éireann routes serve the towns along the way; schedules should be checked in advance, particularly on Sundays. The nearest railway stations are Carrick‑on‑Suir and Clonmel, both on the Dublin‑Waterford line.
Nearby attractions
While walking the East Munster Way you can easily visit other points of interest in the region:
- Cahir Castle – a medieval fortress on the River Suir, a short detour from the trail near Kilsheelan.
- Clonmel – the “Honey Meadow” town, offering shops, cafés and the historic Holy Cross monument.
- Clogheen – gateway to the Knockmealdown Mountains and a pleasant spot to finish the walk.
- Ardfinnan – a historic bridge and riverside walk a few kilometres north of the trail.
- Devil’s Bit – a nearby mountain with additional walking routes and panoramic views.
These sites provide opportunities for extra sightseeing, meals or an extended stay before or after completing the East Munster Way.