Slieve Bloom Mountains

Rising unexpectedly from the Midland bogs, the Slieve Bloom Mountains are Ireland's oldest hills - 500 million years of geology hidden in the heart of the country. This circular route crosses the range through quiet valleys and scenic passes.

Why This Route?

The Slieve Blooms are Ireland's secret mountains:

• Ancient geology - Oldest hills in Ireland
• Total peace - Few visitors, empty trails
• Scenic passes - Dramatic mountain roads
• Waterfalls - Hidden cascades in wooded glens
• Walking paradise - 70km Slieve Bloom Way

The Mountains

The Slieve Blooms rose 500 million years ago - older than the Alps, Pyrenees, or Irish Wicklow Mountains. Erosion has rounded them to a gentle 527m at the highest point (Arderin), but the landscape feels genuinely wild.

The Route

Starting from Portlaoise

The Laois county town has good facilities and motorway access.

Mountmellick

A Quaker-founded town known for embroidery (Mountmellick Work). The heritage trail explains the industrial past.

Clonaslee

A gateway village on the Offaly side:

• Traditional character
• Access to walking trails
• Good pub stop

Cut Pass (Glen of Clodiagh)

A scenic drive through the heart of the mountains:

• Pine forests
• Open moorland
• Viewpoints over the Midlands

Kinnitty

The Offaly gateway village:

• Kinnitty Castle Hotel (now a hotel, worth a look)
• Walks and trails
• Traditional pubs

Cadamstown

A tiny hamlet in the mountains. The "Ridge of Capard" walk starts here.

Glenbarrow

The highlight for many - a wooded glen with:

• Spectacular waterfall
• Easy walking trail
• Quiet picnic spot

Monicknew

Access point for Arderin, the highest point.

Mountrath

Return to Laois via this market town.

Walking Options

Slieve Bloom Way

• Total length: 70km loop
• Time: 3-4 days (or sections)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Highlights: Full mountain circuit

Glenbarrow Waterfall

• Distance: 4km loop
• Time: 1.5 hours
• Difficulty: Easy
• Highlights: Waterfall, forest, river

Ridge of Capard

• Distance: 10km
• Time: 3-4 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Highlights: Ridge walk, views

Arderin Summit

• Distance: 6km return
• Time: 2.5 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Highlights: Highest point, panorama

Wildlife & Nature

Blanket Bog

The summit areas preserve blanket bog with:

• Sphagnum mosses
• Sundew (carnivorous)
• Bog cotton
• Heathers

Forest Wildlife

• Red squirrels
• Long-eared owls
• Crossbills
• Pine martens (rare sightings)

Practical Tips

1. Roads are quiet - But also narrow in places
2. Mobile signal patchy - Download maps
3. Weather differs - Mountains have their own microclimate
4. Few facilities - Bring food and water
5. Glenbarrow - Can be muddy; wear boots