Explore the lower slopes of the captivating Comeragh Mountains on this challenging 7.4km walking loop. Remote and incredibly scenic, you’ll spot plenty of peaks and enjoy county-wide views on this wonderful Waterford trail.
A treasure trove of coums and lakes, the Nire Valley is a fantastic walking area. The Coumduala Loop is the most difficult and longest of the valley’s walks.
Taking 4 hours to complete, the trail starts at the Nire Valley car park near Ballymacarbry village.
Strenuous in grade, this 7.4km loop follows sand road, roadway, track and mountain terrain. You’ll follow the route towards the picturesque lower slopes of the Comeragh Mountains, The Gap and on to the loop’s highest point on the slopes of Knockanaffrin. The trail then descends across yet more pleasant mountain terrain to a mountain track, back to the trailhead.
After the loop, stop by Ballymacarbry village for a rewarding cup of tea.
Trail details
- Type:
- Walking Trail
- Location:
- Nire Valley Trails
- Grade:
- Strenuous
- Format:
- Loop
- Length:
- 7.40km
- Ascent:
- 540m
- Dogs allowed:
- No
Time:4 hours
Nearest town start:Ballymacarbry
Nearest town finish:Ballymacarbry
Start point:Nire Valley Car Park
Finish point:Nire Valley Car Park
Waymarking:purple arrow on white background
Facilities:Car parking, accommodation, pub, food, restaurants
Why we like it
- On this trail you’ll see Coum Lara, a pictorial hollow with no lake, as well as stunning panoramas from The Gap of the surrounding counties.
- The trail also leads you up part of Knockanaffrin Ridge to a spectacular viewing platform overlooking Coumduala. On a clear day you’ll even see the peak of beautiful Slievenamon.
