The South Leinster Way

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 kilometres (64 miles) in length and ascending 1600 metres.

The predominant features in the landscape are Mount Leinster, Brandon Hill and the river valleys of the Barrow, Nore and Suir. 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.

STAGE 2: Borris - Graiguenamanagh 12km (7 ½ miles). This stretch follows the towpath along the River Barrow and is particularly attractive as it passes through rich deciduous woodland and old mills. Graiguenamanagh is the end of this walk - a quayside, boating town lying in the county of Kilkenny but connected via a 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 village of Inistioge - a pretty village with a fine market square and interesting buildings and sites including the Augustinian Priory and St. Columcille's Well. In recent years, Inistioge has also 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.

The Forge Restaurant, Art & Craft Centre located at Kilbride Cross, Ballon is a meeting point for many walking groups and packed lunches can be supplied upon request. Situated close to the South Leinster Way off the N80, 3km outside the village of Ballon. Tel: 059-9159939.

The County Carlow stretch of this varied trail from Kildavin to Graiguenamanagh leads the walker between some very fine lofty summits, follows the towpath along the River Barrow and passes through medieval towns and ancient sites.