Overview
Nine Stones Viewing Point crowns the summit of Mount Leinster, the highest peak in County Carlow, and marks the saddle that separates the mountain from neighbouring Slievebawn. From this lofty perch visitors can gaze across a patchwork of fields, forests and towns in eight counties – Carlow, Laois, Kildare, Wicklow, Wexford, Waterford, Kilkenny and Tipperary – and, on a crystal‑clear day, spot the distant coastline of Wales to the east. The site is easily reached via the Mount Leinster Heritage Drive on Bunclody Road and is a favourite stop for motorists, cyclists, walkers and photographers alike.
History & Legend
The name derives from a modest alignment of nine low stones, each about 50 cm high, set into the ground on the lower side of the road. Local folklore holds that the stones commemorate nine shepherds who were lost in a winter storm on Mount Leinster many years ago. While the exact origins remain uncertain, the tale adds a poignant human dimension to the stark, natural setting.
Geology & Environment
Mount Leinster sits on the granite‑cored Blackstairs Mountains. Around the Nine Stones the exposed rocks are primarily slates, with beds of quartzite and mudstone. Nearby Slievebawn and Tomduff reveal schist outcrops. The surrounding forest is a Coillte‑managed plantation of spruce, larch and fir, while the higher slopes support dense heather. This habitat forms part of a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) under the EU Habitats Directive, recognised for its dry heath and rare flora.
Walks & Trails
Nine Stones – Borris (E‑H) Walk
A 10.6 km (6.6 mi) easy‑grade walk starts at the Nine Stones car park and follows the South Leinster Way southwards to the historic village of Borris. The route passes two local landmarks – the White Rock on the right and the Scabby House on the left – before reaching Tomduff Crossroads and the 1798 Tomduff Campfield monument. The walk takes roughly three hours and is well‑signposted with yellow arrows. Recommended gear: sturdy boots, rainwear, water and a mobile phone.
Loop‑ed Forest Trails
Two Coillte‑maintained loops begin at the car park:
| Loop | Length | Approx. Time |
|---|---|---|
| Short Loop | 3 km (2 mi) | 1 hour |
| Long Loop | 5 km (3 mi) | 2 hours |
Both routes are suitable for families, are surfaced with compacted gravel and feature picnic tables and information boards.
South Leinster Way
Nine Stones sits on the South Leinster Way, a 102 km (64 mi) long‑distance trail that runs from Kildavin (Carlow) to Carrick‑on‑Suir (Tipperary). Hikers can use the viewpoint as a scenic waypoint, a place to refill water, or a rest stop before continuing northwards into the Blackstairs Mountains or southwards into the River Barrow valley.
Cycling
The Nine Stones Cycle Loop is a 118 km sign‑posted circuit that traverses Counties Wexford, Carlow and Wicklow, climbing a total of 1 600 m. The loop passes the viewpoint at the summit, offering cyclists a dramatic reward after a challenging ascent. The route is recommended anti‑clockwise to minimise right‑hand turns. Detailed maps and a printable PDF are available from the council:
- Printable route map (PDF)
- A GPX file can be downloaded from the Wexford County Council website.
Nearby Attractions
While you’re in the area, consider a short drive to these Carlow highlights:
- Borris House – the historic Kavanagh family seat with guided tours of the house and gardens.
- Borris Railway Viaduct – a striking 19th‑century stone viaduct with a 3.5 km walking route beneath its arches.
- Brownshill Dolmen – a massive Neolithic portal tomb just a few kilometres north of the viewpoint.
- Borris – a Georgian village with cafés, craft shops and easy access to the viaduct walk.
Practical Information
- Access: Free and open year‑round; no formal opening hours. The site is weather‑dependent – check forecasts before heading up.
- Parking: Small lay‑by parking is available next to the viewpoint. Spaces are limited in peak season.
- Facilities: Picnic tables, trail maps and information boards at the car park.
- Accessibility: The car park and short viewing platform are reachable on a compacted gravel surface; however, the higher viewpoints involve uneven ground and are not wheelchair‑friendly.
- Dog‑friendly: Dogs are welcome on leads; keep them under control near livestock.
- Safety: Conditions can change rapidly at altitude. Carry warm clothing, water and a fully charged phone.
- Website: (official site currently unverified – please confirm).
Enjoy the sweeping panoramas, the quiet mystery of the nine stones and the fresh mountain air – a perfect spot for a family outing, a photo‑stop on a road trip, or a waypoint on a longer hike or bike ride.