 The South Leinster Way - Kildavin to Carrick-on-Suir (The photographs on this page are views from the South Leinster Way but may not correspond to the stages where they are inserted.) |
 The South Leinster Way is a long distance walking route which runs from Kildavin Co. Carlow to Carrick-on-Suir in Co. Tipperary covering 102 km (64 miles) in length. The predominant features in the landscape are Mount Leinster, Brandon Hill and the river valleys of the Barrow, Nore and Suir. (The Three Sisters) This stretch can be comfortably walked in five days but strong walkers can finish it in three days. STAGE 1: Kildavin - Borris 22km (14 miles) From Kildavin the route passes along forest tracks over the northern slopes of Mount Leinster to reach the town of Borris. The "Nine Stones" vantage point at Mount Leinster offers amazing views of the Barrow Valley and Brandon Hill. At 795 metres Mount Leinster is the highest hill in the Blackstairs Mountains. The mast on top transmits RTE television and radio to the entire region. STAGE 2: Borris - Graiguenamanagh 12km (7 miles)  This stretch follows the towpath along the River Barrow and is particularly attractive as it passes through rich deciduous woodland and old mills. Clashganny Lock, 5km south of Borris is one of Carlow's and Ireland's most famous landmarks. Graiguenamanagh marks the end of this stage - a quayside, boating town lying in the county of Kilkenny but connected via a fine bridge over the River Barrow to its twin village of Tinnahinch in Co. Carlow. STAGE 3: Graiguenamanagh - Inistioge 16km (10 miles) This walk crosses the slopes of Mount Brandon by a series of forest walks before reaching the pretty village of Inistioge. At 519 metres in height Mount Brandon is the last significant hill of any size in the Leinster granite chain and offers superb views of the surrounding countryside. There is a view indicator, pointing out the principle attractions in South East Ireland and a large cross. In recent years, Inistioge has witnessed the development of the film making industry in Ireland. Famous films shot here include Widow's Peak and Circle of Friends.  STAGE 4: Inistioge - Mullinavat 30km (19 miles)  Suitable for the seasoned walker. This section of the way starts along the banks of the River Nore and continues via forest roads over several hills to reach Mullinavat. STAGE 5: Mullinavat - Carrick-on-Suir 22km (14 miles) This stretch crosses the River Blackwater and passes the village of Piltown en route to the end of the walk in Carrick-on-Suir. To link with the South Leinster Way website please click here |