South Leinster Way | Carlow

Overview

The South Leinster Way is a 103.6 km (64 mi) National Waymarked Trail that runs southwest from the village of Kildavin in County Carlow to Carrick-on-Suir in County Tipperary, passing through parts of County Kilkenny. Graded as moderate, the linear route is typically completed in five days, averaging 20–25 km per stage. It is marked throughout by a yellow arrow on a black background and is open to walkers, trail runners, and dogs on a lead.

Inaugurated on 30 November 1985 by Minister of State for Sport Donal Creed, the trail forms a vital link in the European long-distance path E8, which stretches from Dursey Island in County Cork to Istanbul. In Ireland, the E8 sequence connects the Wicklow Way, the South Leinster Way, and the East Munster Way. Management is shared between Carlow, Kilkenny and Tipperary county councils, the Carlow Local Sports Partnership, Kilkenny Trails, and Coillte.

The Route & Daily Stages

While the trail can be walked in either direction, the official progression moves from Kildavin to Carrick-on-Suir. Most walkers break the journey into five stages, though flexible routing allows for shorter day walks or extended multi-day itineraries.

Day 1: Kildavin to Borris (approx. 25 km) – The opening section climbs through the Blackstairs Mountains, crossing the heathery flanks of Mount Leinster (796 m). The route descends into the Barrow Valley, passing the village of Borris and the historic Borris House estate.
Day 2: Borris to Graiguenamanagh (approx. 15 km) – A flat, traffic-free stretch follows the River Barrow towpath. Walkers pass four historic canal locks, swans, and quiet woodland before arriving at the riverside town of Graiguenamanagh.
Day 3: Graiguenamanagh to Inistioge (approx. 18 km) – The trail leaves the river and begins a steady ascent up the northern slopes of Brandon Hill (515 m). After crossing the hill, the route descends through Woodstock Forest to the ten-arch stone bridge over the River Nore at Inistioge.
Day 4: Inistioge to Mullinavat (approx. 27 km) – This stage winds through coniferous woodlands and quiet country lanes. Bluebells carpet the forest floor in spring, and a short detour leads to the secluded Poulanassy Waterfall before reaching the market town of Mullinavat.
Day 5: Mullinavat to Carrick-on-Suir (approx. 30 km) – The final leg follows a mix of quiet tarmac and rolling farmland. The trail finishes at the edge of Carrick-on-Suir, where the River Suir meets the historic town centre and Ormond Castle.

Highlights Along the Way

Five people walking away on a gravel path lined with tall trees in a sunny forest. — Courtesy Dylan Vaughan

The South Leinster Way balances open mountain scenery with riverside tranquillity and well-preserved heritage sites. Key points of interest include:

Nine Stones Viewing Point – Located on the shoulder of Mount Leinster, this viewpoint offers panoramic views across southeast Ireland. On exceptionally clear days, the coast of Wales is visible. Local folklore suggests the stones mark the resting place of nine 1798 rebels or nine shepherds lost in a mountain storm.
Borris Railway Viaduct – Completed in 1860 using granite quarried from Mount Leinster, the 16-arch bridge once carried the Wexford–Bagenalstown railway. A dedicated 3.5 km loop walk takes you beneath the arches and provides excellent photography opportunities.
River Barrow Towpath – Ireland’s second-longest river provides a peaceful, flat walking surface. The non-tidal section contains 23 historic locks, and the towpath remains a favourite for birdwatchers and families.
Clashganny Forest – Accessible via a green-arrow side-track near Borris, this gentle loop follows the Barrow Way, passes Clashganny Lock, and features a historic mass-rock.
Duiske Abbey – Located in Graiguenamanagh, this 13th-century Cistercian ruin is one of the largest medieval abbeys in Ireland. Life-size granite statues depicting monastic duties line the town’s streets.
Poulanassy Waterfall – A quiet cascade hidden off a side track between Mullinavat and Carrick-on-Suir. It is rarely crowded and offers a peaceful break from the main route.

Borris House, Borris, Co Carlow Courtesy Brian Morrison Photography, Tourism Ireland

Getting Started & Logistics

Trailheads & Parking – The official start point is the churchyard in Kildavin (grid reference S 890 599). A small free car park sits beside the church and is sign-posted from the N80. At the finish, Carrick-on-Suir offers several public car parks and on-street bays near the River Suir.

Public Transport

Start – The nearest rail station is Bunclody. Bus Éireann operates a request-stop service to the village, and local taxis can cover the short distance to the Kildavin trailhead.
Finish – Carrick-on-Suir is served by daily Express Bus services to Waterford and Limerick. Rail connections are available via Iarnród Éireann at Waterford station (approx. 30 minutes by bus or taxi).

Maps & Navigation – The official South Leinster Way Map Guide (EastWest Mapping) is available as a free PDF on the Sport Ireland website. For digital navigation, the HiiKER app and IrishTrails.ie portal provide detailed GPS tracks and stage breakdowns.

Accommodation – Each main staging village (Borris, Graiguenamanagh, Inistioge, Mullinavat, Carrick-on-Suir) offers a range of B&Bs, guesthouses, and small hotels. Camping is available at Brandon Hill Camping (seasonal) and at select farm-yard sites along the route. Book ahead during summer months and local festivals.

Practical Tips for Walkers

Surface & Terrain – Approximately 55–58% of the trail follows local roads, including quiet tarmac, forestry tracks, and gravel lanes. The final 30 km is entirely paved. Trail runners often appreciate the road sections, while walkers should be comfortable navigating occasional light traffic.
Waymarking – Look for the yellow arrow on a black background. Signage can be sparse in a few sections, particularly near the Kilbrannish Loop and on parts of the Barrow towpath. Carry the official map or a downloaded GPX file as backup.
Dogs – Permitted on a lead throughout the entire route.
Weather & Gear – The trail is open year-round. Mountain sections on Mount Leinster and Brandon Hill can be exposed and windy. Pack waterproof layers, sturdy walking boots with good grip, and a basic first-aid kit. In summer, insect repellent is recommended for early mornings on the open heath.
Safety – While gradients are gentle, some road sections near larger villages (e.g., the R700 near Inistioge) can be busy. Stay alert at single-track crossings and use high-visibility clothing if walking in low light.

A paved bridge leads to the Dromana Gate, featuring a stone arch, green dome, and decorative spires. — Courtesy Luke Myers

Events & Seasonal Notes

Graiguenamanagh Regatta – Held annually in July on the River Barrow, this century-old rowing festival draws crowds to the town’s riverside promenade. Walkers passing through during the weekend will find a lively, festive atmosphere.
Carlow Autumn Walking Festival – Usually held in October, the festival features guided walks on the Blackstairs Mountains, flora and geology tours, and navigation workshops that are highly useful for South Leinster Way hikers.
Spring Bluebells & Summer Heather – The woodland sections between Inistioge and Mullinavat come alive with bluebells in late April and May. By August, the mountain heaths on Mount Leinster and Brandon Hill turn purple with blooming heather.
Borris Viaduct Heritage Walks – During select summer weekends, local heritage groups host short talks at the viaduct, covering its 1860 construction and engineering history.

The South Leinster Way rewards walkers with a steady rhythm of river valleys, forest tracks, and quiet market towns. Download the official Sport Ireland PDF map before heading out, check local accommodation availability for your chosen stages, and plan your start date around the summer regatta or autumn walking festival for added local colour.