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Tomorrow 
Kickstart 2025 with a Walking Adventure in Wexford:
From Couch to a mix of Coastal and Countryside Walks
Wexford offers the ideal destination for a new mindset this new year!
January is upon us, and after a December of indulgence, the thought of shaking off the post-Christmas lethargy might feel daunting. But don’t panic—Wexford, with its stunning trails and cosy post-walk pubs, has you covered. In the spirit of Ireland’s Ancient East, we’ve curated a step-by-step guide to get you off the couch and onto the path toward health, happiness, and breath taking landscapes. Let’s lace up those walking boots and embrace the new year!
From Couch to Short Loops: Beginner-Friendly Walks in Wexford (Up to 3.5km)
1. St. Clomaun’s Way, Duncormick
Distance: 1km
Walking this delightful 1km trail offers a short yet enchanting experience, winding along a picturesque riverbank to the historic St. Clomaun’s Well, a hidden gem unearthed in 1954. The route is ideal for families, casual walkers, or anyone seeking a tranquil escape into nature’s beauty.
Along the way, enjoy serene water views and the gentle rustle of leaves, with the journey ending at the peaceful and storied well site. It’s a perfect outing to connect with history and the charm of the countryside.
Post-Walk Reward: Experience the charm of a traditional Irish pub at O’Brien’s Bar in Duncormick. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, excellent pints, and friendly staff, it’s the perfect spot to relax after your refreshing walk. If you have built up an appetite, the pub boasts an on-site takeaway offering freshly prepared fish and chips—a delicious way to round off your day in Wexford!
2. Kilanerin & Curragh Woods
Distance: 3km each or 6.5km combined
The Kilanerin & Curragh Woods trails offer a beautiful escape into 100 acres of mixed woodland, where nature’s beauty and local heritage come together in perfect harmony. With two figure-of-eight loops, the 3km routes are ideal walking routes for beginners or those seeking a short, peaceful walk surrounded by trees and wildlife. For those craving a more fulfilling adventure, combining both loops into the 6.5km trail provides a satisfying challenge with even more stunning views and the chance to fully immerse yourself in the woodland’s charm.
Whether you’re a casual hiker or an ambitious explorer, these trails offer a perfect opportunity to reconnect with nature at your own pace.
Pic: Courtesy The Coach House
Post-Walk Reward: Close by in the busy town of Gorey enjoy a gastro pub experience in The Coach House, located at the top of Esmonde St! This pub is the perfect spot to unwind after your Wexford walking adventures and enjoy their every changing menu. Great food, good fun, and a warm welcome in this must visit pub!
3. Lacken Hilltop Trail, New Ross
Distance: 3.4km
Pic: Courtesy Wexford Walking Trails
The Lacken Hilltop Trail offers a captivating 3.4km walk, taking you through scenic woodland paths and rewarding you with breath taking panoramic views of the South-East region. Steeped in history, this trail follows in the footsteps of the 1798 rebels, allowing you to connect with the past while enjoying the beauty of nature.
The route is short but invigorating, with varying terrain that adds a bit of challenge and excitement. As you are walking to the summit, there is a strong sense of the historic significance that makes this walk truly special.
Pic: Courtesy Mannions Pub
Post-Walk Reward:
After walking to the hilltop and back, reward yourself with a visit to Mannion’s Pub in Mount Elliot, New Ross. Known for its warm atmosphere and focus on quality food, this bustling pub offers enticing specials that keep locals coming back time and time again. It’s the perfect spot to relax and refuel after your walk on Lacken Hill!
Medium Walks with a little more expected and more to enjoy (4-8km)
1. Ballyteige Burrow, Kilmore Quay
Distance: 4.5km
The Ballyteige Burrow trail offers a captivating 4.5km loop, perfect for nature lovers and coastal enthusiasts. Starting along the scenic promenade, the trail guides you alongside towering dunes, windswept beaches, embracing the refreshing sea breeze, all while revealing stunning views of Ballyteige Bay across to Hook Lighthouse. As you circle the dunes, you’ll feel the rhythm of the tides and the beauty of the surrounding landscape before returning along the beach for a revitalizing finish. This trail provides an invigorating coastal adventure, ideal for those seeking both relaxation and a touch of exploration amid the natural wonders of Kilmore Quay.
Pic: Courtesy Mary Barrys
Post-Walk Reward: – Mary Barry’s in Kilmore, is the ultimate post-walk haven. Famous for its warm hospitality and delicious lunches, it’s the perfect spot to recharge after walking the wild Ballyteige Burrow trail. Having enjoyed the coastal scenery and gained an appetite from the sea air this cosy retreat provides the ideal chance to relax and refuel!
2. Cullentra Trail, Kiltealy
Distance: 7.8km
Pic: Courtesy Wexford Walking Trails
The Cullentra Trail offers a moderate challenge for those seeking a rewarding hike amidst stunning scenery. This 7.8km route takes you through a beautiful blend of woodlands and open landscapes, providing sweeping views of the majestic Blackstairs Mountains that will leave you in awe.
As you walk, the peaceful surroundings allow for a perfect escape into nature, offering a sense of tranquillity that’s ideal for soaking in the changing seasons, especially as winter transitions into spring. The trail is a wonderful way to reconnect with nature, immerse yourself in the seasonal beauty, and experience the charm of Kiltealy’s countryside at its finest.
Pic: Courtesy The Jack Rabbit bar
Post-Walk Reward: The Jack Rabbit Bar, nestled in the charming town of Bunclody, Co. Wexford, is the ideal spot to unwind after your walk. With a luxurious interior and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s perfect for relaxing. Enjoy refreshing drinks and delicious bar food served from the food truck on the rear terrace, making it a must-visit post-walk destination.
3. Ballybrittas Dolmen Trail, Bree Hill
Distance: 6.5km
The Ballybrittas Dolmen Trail is a 6.5km route that offers a captivating blend of history and natural beauty. As you walk, you’ll encounter Wexford’s oldest standing structure, a remarkable Neolithic dolmen, nestled in the heart of the scenic Bree Hill. The trail weaves through 25km of enchanting forest paths, revealing hidden heritage gems along the way, including stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
This peaceful walk not only offers a chance to immerse yourself in history but also allows you to connect deeply with the tranquil beauty of nature, making it a perfect exploration for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
Pic: Courtesy The Bailey Bar
Post-Walk Reward: Take a short drive to the charming town of Enniscorthy and treat yourself to a well-deserved lunch at the award-winning gastro pub, The Bailey. Known for its exceptional menu, the pub’s signature wings and steak come highly recommended, but there’s something to satisfy every palate. Indulge in a post-walk feast and savour the perfect blend of flavours in this cosy, welcoming spot!
4. Cahore Point Trail
Distance: 4.8km
The Cahore Point Trail is a stunning 4.8km coastal path that offers breath taking views of the sea, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a rejuvenating walk by the water. As you journey along the trail, you’ll be treated to dramatic sea vistas, with the option to extend your adventure by continuing along the sandy beach to Blackwater Head, where the shoreline stretches out in peaceful isolation.
The fresh, bracing sea air combined with the endless vistas will refresh your spirit, offering a perfect tonic for the soul. Whether you’re here to embrace the stunning scenery, soak in the salty Wexford air, or simply enjoy the tranquil rhythm of the waves, this trail offers an unforgettable coastal experience.
Pic: Courtesy The Strand Cahore
Post-Walk Reward: Nestled by the sea with panoramic views stretching to Wicklow Head, The Strand Cahore is a destination that evokes cherished memories. Owners Patrick and Aileen have transformed this beloved spot into a culinary coastal delight, offering the perfect retreat after a refreshing walk along Wexford’s scenic shoreline with views to Wicklow Head
Longer Walks that needs a bit more energy but well worth it! (8km+)
1. Annagh Hill
Distance: 8km+
Pic: Courtesy Wexford Walking Trails1
For an exhilarating adventure, explore the rugged beauty of Annagh Hill on the Yellow Belly Trail, rich in history and folklore. At the foot of the hill lies the “Giants Den,” a rare ringfort, with another fort near Ballythomas National School. Nearby Loggan is thought to be the coronation site of Uí Chinseallaigh Clan chiefs, and Pallas once hosted a Gaelic bardic school. Kilcashel graveyard, known for its intricate Denis Cullen headstones, is also the final resting place of many from the 1798 Battle of Arklow.
This 8km+ route offers dramatic terrain with panoramic views of valleys and hills. For a gentler hike, Annagh Hill Turnaround Trail provides stunning vistas, stretching to Wales on clear days. Both trails offer unforgettable views and a deep connection to Ireland’s wild beauty.
Pic: Courtesy The Gap Pub
Post-Walk Reward: After your walk, unwind at the cosy and welcoming Gap Pub in Ballythomas. With its warm open fires and views of Annagh Hill, it’s the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the lively stories and tall tales shared by the friendly locals.
2. Tintern Trails – Caesar Colclough Trail
Distance: 11km
The Caesar Colclough Trail offers an immersive 11km journey through the enchanting woodlands surrounding the historic Tintern Abbey, where nature and history intertwine. As you follow the path, you’ll make your way to the picturesque village of Saltmills, where you can pause to take in panoramic views of the beautiful Barrow Estuary, a serene landscape that stretches out before you.
Along the way, the trail reveals hidden gems of local heritage and the peaceful rhythm of the surrounding nature, making it a perfect day out for those seeking a blend of history, breathtaking scenery, and quiet reflection. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking for a peaceful escape, this trail provides a perfect setting for an unforgettable adventure steeped in history.
Post-Walk Reward: The Vine Cottage Bar in the nearby pretty village of Saltmills is a family-owned gem for generations, this charming pub welcomes you with cosy open fires, hearty lunches, and the perfect post-walk treat!
3. Askamore Slieve Boy Loop
Distance: 12km
Embark on a 12km adventure through a blend of sandy lanes and tranquil forest roads, where nature’s beauty unfolds at every turn. As you ascend, you’ll be rewarded with breath taking views stretching across the Wexford coastline and far beyond, offering a truly magical experience, especially on a clear day. The loop takes you through peaceful, unspoiled landscapes, providing a perfect mix of scenic serenity and invigorating challenge. Whether you’re seeking solitude in nature or simply wanting to take in some of the best coastal vistas in the area, this trail promises a memorable escape into the heart of Wexford’s natural beauty.
Pic: Courtesy The Courtyard Ferns
Post-Walk Reward: Treat yourself to a delicious lunch at the friendly Courtyard Pub in Ferns, where the hearty food is matched only by the warm welcome you’ll receive. Their Fresh Fish and Chips is not to be missed!
4. Three Rocks Trail, Wexford
Distance: 13km
Park up at Skeater Park, on the New Line road and head out on the Three Rocks Trail, a remarkable 13km journey that takes you through time across Forth Mountain to Ferrycarrig, offering a rich tapestry of historical landmarks, panoramic vistas and forest paths. As you walk, you’ll be immersed in the rich biodiversity of the area, with lush forests, rolling hills, and a variety of wildlife accompanying you along the way.
The trail is steeped in history, with significant sites related to the 1798 Rebellion, making each step a step back in time as you connect with Wexford’s past. Although it’s a longer walk, the beautiful landscapes, historical insights, and the sense of accomplishment make this trail an unforgettable experience for both nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Note: This is a linear trail. We recommend car pooling or arranging collection when you finish your walk as there is no public transport between the trailheads.
Pic: Courtesy Newtown Park
Post-Walk Reward: Celebrate your walk with a refreshing drink and a hearty meal when you reach the Newtown Park Hotel near the end of the trail. With a growing reputation for exceptional food, this newly rebranded hotel, under the expert guidance of head chef Tony Carthy, is growing it’s reputation for dishes made with the finest local produce and ingredients.
Top Ten Tips for Winter Walking in Wexford
- Dress in Layers: Be prepared for Wexford’s unpredictable weather.
- Waterproof Footwear: Wet socks are no one’s friend.
- Stay Hydrated: Bring water, even in the chilly weather.
- Pack Snacks: A chocolate bar or energy snack can work wonders mid-walk.
- Check the Forecast: Avoid walking in heavy rain or fog.
- Carry a Map or GPS: Some trails are remote, and phone service may be spotty.
- Daylight Counts: Start early to make the most of limited daylight hours.
- Bring a Flask: Nothing beats a sip of hot tea at a scenic viewpoint.
- Buddy Up: Walking with friends or family makes the experience safer and more fun.
- Carry your Phone: For endless Instagram worthy pictures and to be contactable on your walk, your phone is a must! Don’t forget to Tag Visit Wexford!
The Benefits of a Winter Walk in Wexford
Walking isn’t just about exercise—it’s a tonic for the soul. Walking in Wexford, nature surrounds you with a sense of renewal, from the crisp winter air to the promise of spring around the corner. You’ll strengthen your body, clear your mind, and maybe even stumble upon a new favourite pup or cosy café. This January, step off the couch and onto Wexford’s trails. Whether you’re strolling along a Wexford beach or walking Askamore’s Slieve Boy Loop, every walk is a step toward a healthier, happier you. For more detailed information on all waymarked walking trails in County Wexford (there are over 90!), please visit the website: wexfordwalkingtrail.ie
Here’s to starting 2025 with an adventure in Wexford!