Embark on the scenic South Leinster Way, an off-the-beaten-path trail that winds through the picturesque landscapes of Counties Carlow, Kilkenny and Tipperary. Suitable for walkers of varying fitness levels with an adventurous spirit, this trail is typically completed in five days and offers an immersive experience into the rural heart of Ireland.
Starting in the quaint village of Kildavin, the trail ascends the heathery flanks of Mount Leinster and crosses into the town of Borris. The path then picks up a serene towpath alongside the River Barrow, leading you to the historic town of Graiguenamanagh. Continuing, you traverse the northern slopes of Brandon Hill and pass through coniferous woodlands en route to the village of Inistioge. The journey concludes with a tranquil walk on quiet roads to the heritage-rich town of Carrick-on-Suir.
Total walking distance is km ( mi).
Price Includes
Optional Extras
Pricing
This 7-day tour explores stunning scenery, historical sites, and charming towns in the lesser-known countryside of southeastern Ireland.
This tour is rated MODERATE.
See how we determine levels of difficulty for each of our hiking tours by visiting our FAQ page.
Arrival into Kildavin by public transport from Dublin.
From Kildavin the South Leinster Way 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 795m Mount Leinster is the highest point in the Blackstairs Mountains.
Distance 23km (14mi). Ascents 433m (1,421ft). Approximate walking time 6-7 hours.
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.
Distance 12km (7.5mi). Ascents 23m (75ft). Approximate walking time 3-4 hours.
This walk crosses the slopes of Mount Brandon by a series of forest walks before reaching the pretty village of Inistioge.
Distance 16km (10mi). Ascents 329m (1,079ft). Approximate walking time 5-6 hours.
Today’s walk starts along the River Nore and continues via forest roads over several hills to reach Mullinavat, where your accommodation is a comfortable farmhouse.
Distance 25km (15.5mi). Ascents 252m (827ft). Approximate walking time 8-9 hours.
This stretch crosses the River Blackwater and passes the village of Piltown en route to the end of the walk in Carrick-on-Suir.
Distance 26km (16mi). Ascents 170m (558ft). Approximate walking time 7-8 hours.
Depart Carrick-on-Suir for ongoing travel. Directions are provided.
June 2024 — William, United States
I’ve recently returned from hiking on the second stage of my Irish Coast to Coast Walk. This year, with the assistance of Tailor-made Tours, I completed the South Leinster Way and the East Munster Way.
This was only possible through the assistance of Tailor-made Tours, the only hiking service provider or tour director company willing, or able, to assist me with hiking in this area of Ireland. No other group has the interest, or ability, to offer hiking assistance beyond the more popular common routes.
In my first contact with Sean, he said their name was “Tailor-made Tours” and that they could create an itinerary for me in this rarely hiked area. He certainly followed through on his statement. The level of personal attention and service provided by Sean and his staff far excelled that of any other hiking service provider that I have used in the past. Sean particularly went way out of his way to personally assist me with any problems that developed during my hike. I am very grateful to Sean and Tailor-made Tours for their helpful service and for making this hike possible for me.
I will be calling on Tailor-made Tours in the future for my hiking needs and I heartily recommend them to anyone else planning a hike or for any other custom (Tailor-made) tour or travel needs.
+353 86 814 3156
info@tailor-madetours.com
