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Monicknew
Slieve Bloom Mountains

Connect with Nature on Family-Friendly Trails, Just 25 Minutes from Brielle House.

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Slieve Bloom Mountains

Gentle Glens in the
Heart of Ireland

 Tucked into the glorious Slieve Bloom Mountains, the Monicknew Woodland Trails make an ideal escape for walkers and families alike. Here, winding forestry roads meet riverside footpaths beneath towering Sitka spruce and native oak. The jewel of the area is Monicknew Bridge—a dramatic 1840 Roman‑arch stone structure spanning the glen, perfect for a scenic riverside pause.

Discover three well waymarked loops (Riverside, Valley, Bocadh Lodge) that offer a mix of easy and moderate routes, from a 1.4 km stroll to a 7 km exploration. The Valley Walk climbs steadily to views across Laois and Offaly, while the Riverside trail is perfect for children and picnics by the water.

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Visitor Information
for Monicknew Loop Walks

Stay at Brielle House

Location

Around a 25‑minute drive from Brielle House, the Monicknew trailhead is accessed via the Cut road, about 11 km south of Clonaslee—ideal for an active morning or afternoon out.

Opening Hours

Open year‑round during daylight hours. Trails follow forestry and rural roads—opening with the forest every day and accessible at no charge.

Accessibility

Free parking for about 15 cars at the trailhead. Paths range from easy flat riverside walks to moderate mixed-terrain loops. Trails are waymarked and suitable for most fitness levels; the longest loop takes around 2½ hours. Bring sturdy footwear, layered clothing, and insect repellent during summer.

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Christina M

“This is a lovely self catering accommodation, really cosy, comfortable and very clean.
Ann had left some essentials to start us off such as milk, coffee, cereals which we were grateful for as we didn’t need rush out after a long day travelling. We will definitely be staying again.”

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Aidan A

“Accommodation was excellent and very clean. Owners were very nice.
Homely atmosphere. Location is excellent. Walking distance to to everything in Mountmellick. Will go back there”

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Kim L

“We came over from the UK and stayed here for a week in October whilst visiting family and friends in the Midlands. It was a perfect location, near all the places we needed to be and easy to get to from the ferry. Brielle House is a lovely, warm, cosy cottage, well equipped and comfortable.”

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Helen S

“We needed an overnight spot when attending the Taylor Swift concert in Dublin. The home is Lovely. Beautifully presented, spacious and very clean. Very kind host. Generous milk. Tea. Coffee. Cereals and biscuits left for our use. I have no hesitation recommending this home. It would make a great base if touring the Midlands, etc. Thanks, Anne, of Brielle House Guest Accommodation”

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Jo B

“Great place one of the best I have ever stayed in. My family highly recommend staying here!”

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