The Offaly Way typically takes between one to two days to complete, tracking northwest from Cadamstown at the foot of the Slieve Bloom mountain range over mostly flat terrain. A mix of quiet roads, riverbank and forest trails, stretches of farmland, and tarmac roads ensure steady trekking as you go.
Savour the relaxed pace as you follow the yellow markers out of town through scenic mountain and riverside panoramas and plenty of wide open bogland.
This pleasurable route takes in some of the region’s most spectacular highlights, from Turraun and the Boora Bog to the rewarding waterfalls and picturesque gorge near the Silver River, close to the end of the trail.
This trail will particularly appeal to history loving hikers: the route practically bursts with remnants of the past, including a rare Mesolithic site at Boora, Saint Manchan’s holy well, Saint Mella’s cell and more, before culminating at the ancient monastic site of Lemanaghan.
- Looped walks, including one that is wheelchair-friendly, are great options along the Boora stretch of the route.
- The nearby Turraun Nature Reserve is a bird watcher’s paradise where more than 80 species have been recorded.
- Organised hikes along the Offaly Way are available with the Slieve Bloom Walking Club, whose experienced local guides lead walks every weekend of the year.
