Glenpatrick Bridge Loop Walk

Rathgormack Walks are a series of way marked road, woodland and mountain walks in this wonderfully scenic part of north Co. Waterford. The village of Rathgormack can act as your base for all of your walks in this area. It is possible to visit 4 of the Comeraghs 13 impressive coums all within 7kms of the village of Rathgormack itself including Lough Mohra, Coumduala, The Boolas and Crotty's Lake. For those who relish somewhat of a mountain challenge then the trails which start in the parking area in the townland of Curraheen are for you. The Boolas Loop, a Fáilte Ireland National Looped Walk, is the 'big one' here at over 9kms in length, over testing mountain terrain. For those looking for a mix of woodland and mountain terrain then you can start your walk from Glenpatrick Wood parking area or Glenpatrick Bridge Picnic Area. Breathtaking views of the Comeraghs and surrounding countryside are guaranteed.

Did you know: The Boolas Loop Walk links two of the most spectacular glacial features in the Comeraghs. At 1km in length, Coum Iarthar is the longest coum and houses the highest lake in the mountains and is known locally as the Boolas. The Gap, which is the highest mountain pass in County Waterford has linked Rathgormack and the Nire Valley for centuries. Hollywood legend, Stanley Kubrick filmed some of the outdoor scenes for the 1976 Academy Award-winning film, Barry Lyndon (starring Ryan O'Neal and Leonard Rossiter) in the area around Carrigsheenagowna which is adjacent to the Lough Mohra, Rathbeag and Glenpatrick Bridge Loops. The local community have developed a series of on road looped walks around the village of Rathgormack and these are worth checking out on a visit to the area.

How to get there: Curraheen Trailhead: From Rathgormack follow the R678 in the direction of Clonmel for 3km. Turn left at Clondonnell Cross. Parking further 3kms. Glenpatrick Woods Trailhead: From Rathgormack follow the R678 in the direction of Clonmel. After 6km the road turns right at a 4-roadway junction - turn left onto a forestry roadway. Travel for 500m to reach the trailhead. Glenpatrick Bridge Picnic Area: From Rathgormack follow the R678 in the direction of Clonmel. After a 5km straight stretch, the road swings left and reaches a downhill roadway on your right. Turn right and travel for Parking 500m on your right.

Minimum Gear: Hiking boots/Walking shoes, wet weather gear, water, phone