Walking in Laois & Offaly

Offaly and Laois at the heart of Ireland welcomes all visitors to the enormous tracts of wilderness, expanses of bogland, esker hills, mountains and deep wooded valleys. This is a historic land with a rich tradition of myths, fables and legends which are still celebrated to this day. Situated in both Laois and Offaly the picturesque Slieve Bloom Mountains allow visitors to experience to explore the largest continuous area of upland blanket bog and forestry in Ireland. Mountain streams and waterfalls run into deep wooded valleys and friendly villages nestle at the foothills. Trees, shrubs, heather, bog mosses, bog cotton and other vegetation as well as wild forest animals and insects surround the mountains and offer a great experience to the leisurely stroller or energetic hiker. Choose from the variety of walks; eco trails, short and long loops, forest paths and the Slieve Bloom Way.

Walking is truly the best way to fully absorb the beauty of the county. A network of quiet country roads and lanes will take you into the heart of County Laois and Offaly where you are offered some of Ireland's most beautiful and extraordinary landscapes. Our motto in Laois and Offaly is Walk a While - Stay a While so when you do visit please try and do both, it promises to be a truly great experience that you won't forget.

Our lively towns and villages offer friendly greetings, a fantastic range of accommodation from self catering, friendly B&B’s to modern and luxury hotels. Both Laois and Offaly are easily accessible by road, rail, river and canal so why not visit.

Events & Activities
Walking Routes
Slí na Slainte 
Local Accomodation
Getting Here
Useful Resources
Useful Contacts
Useful Tips
Leave No Trace

Pictures in the website courtesy of Swan Creations

A HSE Warning for Walkers and Hikers - Lyme Disease

What Causes Lyme Disease?

Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi which is spread by the bite of a tick. Ticks are tiny spider-like creatures with three life-cycle stages, the smallest of which is about the size of a pinhead. They are frequently found in woodland, moorland and other grassy areas, where they feed on the blood of mammals (e.g. deer) and birds. They are usually found close to the ground, especially in moist, shaded areas.

Ramblers, campers, mountainbikers, and people who work and walk in forested/grassy areas are at greatest risk of being bitten by ticks and developing Lyme disease, but even in these groups, the risk is low.

To view full details, Read the HSE publication - HSE Lyme Disease Leaflet