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Brandon Hill Loop
Graiguenamanagh, Co. Kilkenny
Free to visit
This 15.7km loop summits County Kilkenny’s highest point and treats walkers to unrivalled 360 degree views over the captivating landscape of Ireland’s Ancient East and beyond.

Starting in Graiguenamanagh, nestled on the banks of the River Barrow, this five-hour loop covers country roads, forest tracks and heathered hillsides.

Traversing minor roads as you leave the town, the route soon merges with forest roadway and track as it winds into Gorlough Wood. Following a few kilometres of enveloping forest, the loop ascends along more forestry track as it zig-zags and skirts around Ballinvarry Hill. Green roadway then leads you up Brandon Hill, with a 500m climb taking you to more lush forestry, pleasant open hillside and soon the summit itself.

Standing at the top of 515 metre-high Brandon Hill, embrace the 360 degree panoramas of captivating County Kilkenny and even the coastlines of the South East.

A strenuous loop, there are steep descents on the return as the paths zig-zag downhill.

Back in Graiguenamanagh you’ll find plenty of places to rest weary legs and fill hungry bellies.

Trail details

Type:
Walking Trail
Location:
Brandon Hill Trails
Grade:
Strenuous
Format:
Loop
Length:
15.70km
Ascent:
600m
    Time:5 hours
    Nearest town start:Graiguenamanagh
    Nearest town finish:Graiguenamanagh
    Start point:Outdoor Hub in Graiguenamanagh
    Finish point:Outdoor Hub in Graiguenamanagh
    Waymarking:Purple arrow
    Facilities:Car parking, shops, accommodation, restaurants, cafés, pubs
Why we like it
  • Brandon Hill is the highest point in County Kilkenny. Standing 515m, on a clear day you can see right down to Hook Lighthouse, County Wexford.
Contact details
Brandon Hill Loop Walk,Graiguenamanagh,Co Kilkenny,Republic of Ireland
Leave no trace
  • Plan ahead and prepare
  • Be considerate of others
  • Respect farm animals and wildlife
  • Travel and camp responsibly
  • Leave what you find
  • Dispose of waste properly
  • Protect nature from fire
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