6 Woodland Trails To Visit in Cork, Kerry and Galway

We are very lucky here in Ireland to have such beautiful woodlands within a short distance of our towns. With the Xplore Local app, we want to make it as easy as possible for you to discover the best trails in your town, and beyond. 

Here are six of the most scenic trails in Cork, Kerry, and Galway...

Castlefreke Woods Short-Loop Walk ~ Castlefreke, Co. Cork

The nearby ruins of Rathbarry Castle

This is a short and pleasant 20-minute walk, taking you around in a loop through Castlefreke woods. Castlefreke (a predominantly wooded area 10km from Clonakilty) is renowned for its gorgeous ocean views, as well as for the magnificent ruin of 19th-century Rathbarry Castle.  

The trail is clearly marked and covered with light gravel. It's a great trail for a quick walk through the woods. It also has a car park and some picnic benches. 

Distance: 1.5km

Difficulty: Easy

Ballyseedy Wood Walk ~ Tralee, Co. Kerry

Wild garlic at Ballyseedy Wood

Ballyseedy is a woodland area located 4km from Tralee town. It is a unique and tranquil retreat that extends to nearly 80 acres. It has at least 22 varieties of native trees and they are marked with their Gaelic and English names in the woods. 

The majestic Ash, Oak and Beech trees have been growing there for centuries. There are a number of ruins and follies within the wood, dating back to the 17th century, with the River Lee (from which Tralee takes its name) forming the woodlands northern boundary. 

Distance: 1.5km

Difficulty: Easy

Rinmaher Trail, Portumna Forest Park ~ Portumna, Co. Galway

Aerial view of Lough Derg and surrounding woodland

Rinmaher trail is located within the bounds of the stunning Portumna Forest Park. This loop is mainly on singletrack narrow trails and is suitable for those looking for a longer walk. It begins along a two-way section of trail and covers much of the Park. 

There are good views along the lakeshore near Rinmaher Point south towards Terryglass and east towards Portumna Bridge. Signal signs provide information about local features of fauna and flora, including red squirrel and fallow deer.

Distance: 10km

Difficulty: Moderate

Marlogue Wood ~ Carrigaline, Co. Cork

Woodland scene in West Cork

This hidden gem has an old-world feel that has much to offer including a variety of mature trees and tracks suitable for walking. Marlogue wood is located approximately 30km from Carrigaline but is well worth a visit for a relaxing weekend stroll against the backdrop of the bay. 

The area originally carried old oak stands that were felled during World War I. There are a number of forest roads and tracks running through the forest that allow for both a forest and harbour experience.

Distance: 4km

Difficulty: Easy

Barna Wood Walk ~ Barna, Co. Galway

Ancient, winding trees at Barna Wood

Barna Woods is located on the western outskirts of Galway City, near the village of Barna. This mature, atmospheric woodland is complemented by a small stream and ancient footbridge. It is locally cherished as a quiet retreat from the hustle and bustle of the nearby city. 

One of its most popular trails can be accessed via Barna Rd, where there is a small car park. The loop will take you north and past the outer limits of Knockacara, over the stream and back to the Barna Rd.  

Distance: 2km

Difficulty: Easy

Kilbarry Wood Walk, Coolagown ~ Fermoy, Co. Cork

Carpets of bluebell sometimes bloom during springtime at Kilbarry Wood

Kilbarry wood is set on a wooded plateau situated between the river valleys of the Bride and Blackwater. It consists of 30 hectares mixed broadleaved woodland with stands of mature Oak and Beech and occasional Ash, Birch and Rowan trees along with Scots Pine and Larch. 

There are two looped walking trails in Kilbarry, both guide the visitor around this community woodland that the locals are so proud of.

Distance: 3.4km

Difficulty: Easy

Download the Xplore app to get turn-by-turn directions, a walking guide, and more information on these trails.