Carlow Tourism has issued its annual call to walkers nationwide to step it out in the heart of Ireland’s Ancient East this October as the Carlow Autumn Walking Festival returns for its 2025 edition.
Running from Friday, October 3rd – Sunday October 5th, the festival promises a weekend of fresh air, adventure and discovery, across Carlow’s mountains, forests, rivers and villages.
The festival is a celebration of everything walking has to offer – from physical challenge to relaxation and from mindfulness to heritage. With over 15 walks on the programme, each graded A, B or C, there is something for everyone on the festival programme.
A and B Walks are led by experienced guides from Tullow Mountaineering Club and the Blackstairs Ramblers – these treks range from half-day to full-day adventures across the Blackstairs Mountains and beyond, perfect for those eager to test their stamina and enjoy panoramic views.
C Walks, organised in conjunction with Active Carlow are designed for beginners and those seeking a gentler pace. They offer a wonderful introduction to Carlow’s countryside, with plenty of time to take in nature and local stories.
Highlights of the 2025 programme include:
- The opening night hike at 6.30pm on Friday, 3rd October – a magical experience under starlit skies.
- A nature walk with Éanna Ní Lamhna, broadcaster and biologist, exploring the wildlife and habitats of the Blackstairs.
- The much-loved mindfulness meditation walk in Clogrennan Forest with wellness expert Mary Clare Harte, designed to re-connect mind and body through nature.
- This year sees a focus on the River Barrow, Ireland’s second-longest river, with three C walks, all relatively flat, giving participants the chance to experience and complete some of the most memorable stretches of the Barrow Way. These include St Mullins to Graiguenamanagh, Bagenalstown to Leighlinbridge and Maganey to Carlow Town.
Walkers will also enjoy trails through the Scullogue Gap, Tomduff Hill, Slievebawn, Black Rock Mountain, Kilbrannish Forest, Drummond, Knockmulgurry and more, each ending with light refreshments of soup, sandwiches, tea and coffee and a chance to share stories.
Full programme details, starting points, and booking options are available at www.carlowtourism.com/walkingfestival or by phoning 059-9130411.
Special accommodation packages for the weekend can be found at www.carlowtourism.com/specialoffers
