Most Scenic Walks in Laois

5 MINUTE READ

In addition to Rock of Dunamase, Emo Court and Heywood Gardens Barrow Way, there are other, lesser-known, but gorgeous walking trails in Laois.

The Looped Walks on Slieve Bloom Mountains

There is a wonderful variety of landscapes waiting for you in the Slieve Bloom Mountains, from bogs and forestry paths to mountain streams and waterfalls. There are 16 different walks available and you can read about them here.

Bocadh Lodge Walk

One of our favourites is the 7km long Bocadh Lodge Walk. It crosses the Glen River Bridge, forest roads, grassy paths and valleys. You will also have nice views of the boglands and will walk past the ruins of Bocadh Lodge. This is the longest of the trails, which starts from Monicknew’s trailhead.

Glenbarrow Eco Walk

Glenbarrow Eco Walk at 8.5km is a little more demanding and will see you venturing across forest trails and roads! With waterfalls and a steep valley this route includes some of the most scenic parts of the Slieve Bloom area. Glenbarrow is the source of the River Barrow, the 2nd longest river in Ireland, and home to hares, foxes, badgers, fallow deer and many species of birds. Try to keep your excursion buddies silent for a little while, and there will be a good chance of a wildlife encounter!

We would also highly recommend walking boots, plenty of fluids, snacks, and hiking clothing for this walk. This trail may be a bit too much for kids; so for families, we’d recommend walking up to the waterfall and then returning to the car park where there are picnic benches.

Glenbarrow waterfall
Photo by Magdalena Smolnicka on Unsplash.

Brittas Lake Loop

Most of the Brittas Lake Loop passes through mature trees and it leads to the secluded Brittas Lake. There will be ruins of a bridge, forest roads and the River Clodiagh on your beautiful nature walk.

Mountain Bike Trails

There are also mountain bike trails with trailheads at Kinnitty and Baunreagh. These trails range from moderate to difficult and are designed specifically for mountain bike use. There is currently 35km of mountain bike trails available, and eventually, there will be 100km of biking tracks to explore.

The Laois Camino

This is a relatively new initiative that started in 2018 and is intent on unveiling the hidden gems across county Laois while also supporting local businesses and charities. With so much heritage, woodlands, bogs, water and mountains to be explored and discovered in this county, a group of proud locals decided to organise the yearly Laoise Camino walk. Eventually, outside of the event, there will be individual walks for people to complete too!

Bonus: Slieve Bloom Way

The Slieve Bloom Way is a 75km trail and it’s estimated to takes 3 days to complete the circuit. Don’t worry, you don’t have to do it in one go, you can select different sections of the trail and walk them one at a time. Either way, the rewards will be great — Slieve Bloom Mountains stand alone in Ireland’s Central Plain and have some fantastic views, green forest trails and wildlife! There are five key trailheads that provide the best access to the trail; start at one of these points and you’ll find car parking and informational map boards.

The trailheads are located close to shops, accommodation, restaurants and public transport. Make sure you have your hiking boots on and are prepared with drinks, snacks, and waterproof hiking clothing (just in case).

Maldron Hotel Portlaoise

Maldron Hotel Portlaoise is a fantastic base for you to stay in while you are exploring the Slieve Bloom Mountains and County Laois! The hotel is located close to the motorway and around 20km from some of the most popular trailheads. Relax in the leisure centre’s swimming pool after a full day of walking and then grab a delicious bite to eat in the Grain & Grill restaurant.

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  • General Hotel Information

    What time is check-in?

    Check-in time is from 3pm on the day of arrival. In the case of earlier arrival, we try our best to accommodate our guests where possible without any additional costs. Please note that an earlier check-in is subject to room availability. If a guest expects to arrive after 11pm, we would appreciate it if you could let our reception team know via phone on +353 (0)57 869 5900.

    What time is check-out?

    Check-out time is at 12 noon on the day of departure. In the cases of late departure, we try our best to accommodate our guests where possible. Please note that a late check-out is subject to room availability and available until 3pm at a cost of €20. If you plan to avail of a late check-out, please arrange with our reception team during your stay.

    Does the hotel offer baggage storage?

    Yes, you can leave your luggage with the reception until your room is ready or you are ready to depart.

    Does the hotel have WiFi?

    Yes, complimentary high-speed WiFi is available throughout the hotel and bedrooms.

    Is there a laundry service available?

    Yes, you can leave your laundry with us and we’ll take care of it. Please note that additional charges do apply.

    What do I do if I accidentally left some items in the hotel?

    If you have left any items behind following your stay at the hotel, please contact our reception directly via phone on +353 (0)57 869 5900 and our team will be happy to organise collection or postage if the item is found.

    Are pets permitted in the hotel?

    No, pets are not allowed in the hotel, with the exception of guide and assistance animals.

    Is the hotel reception desk open 24 hours a day?

    Yes, the reception desk is operating 24 hours day.

    What is the hotel’s smoking policy?

    At Maldron Hotel Portlaoise, we operate a strictly non-smoking policy throughout the entire hotel. A deep cleaning fee will be charged to guests who are found to be in breach of our no smoking policy.

    Is the hotel accessible?

    Yes, we are proud to be verified as offering very good levels of accessibility throughout our hotel. Please click the button below for full details or contact us if you would like any additional information.

    Hotel Accessibility

    Do you sell gift vouchers?

    Yes, gift vouchers are available to purchase at the hotel reception desk or online. Gift vouchers can be used in all Maldron Hotels, in our sister brand, Clayton Hotels and selected partner hotels, The Gibson Hotel, The Belvedere Hotel and Hotel 7, meaning a choice of over 40 hotels in Ireland and the UK.

    Do you provide printing facilities for boarding passes?

    Yes, our reception team can assist with printing your boarding pass.

    Does the hotel offer currency exchange?

    No, we don’t offer currency exchange at the hotel, but we will be happy to direct you to the nearest facility.

    Do you supply travel adapters?

    Yes, travel adapters are available at reception.

    Are there babysitting services available?

    Yes, we offer babysitting services. Please ask when making your reservation.

    Does the hotel offer any family facilities and activities?

    Yes, our Crafty Kids Club is available during the school holidays from 6.30pm to 8pm each evening. For big kids and little kids, we have a games room in the hotel which provides hours of entertainment for the whole family. We also have swimming lessons available in Club Vitae. Please call +353 (0)57 869 5960 for more information or to enquire.

    Do you have any special family hotel deals or packages?

    Yes, Maldron Hotel Portlaoise offers a number of family packages and hotel deals for your visit to the Midlands. Visit our special offers page or call us directly on +353 (0)57 869 5900 for more information.

  • Location & Parking

    How far is the hotel from Portlaoise town?

    Maldron Hotel Portlaoise is located 2km from Portlaoise town centre, less than a 5-minute drive. The hotel is located at Exit 17 off the M7 Motorway and therefore easily accessible More information you can find on our location page.

    Is there parking near the hotel?

    Yes, we offer secure complimentary car parking at the hotel with space for approximately 300 cars.

    Are there any shopping areas nearby?

    Yes, Maldron Hotel Portlaoise is perfectly located for a shopping break in the Midlands and close to several great shopping centres. Laois Shopping Centre and Kildare Village are just a 15-minute drive from our hotel and Whitewater Shopping Centre is a 20-minute drive away. As our guest, you can avail of a discount voucher which entitles you to 10% off most stores in the Kildare Village Outlet.

    How close are public transport links to the hotel?

    The hotel is located 2km from Portlaoise train station and 2km to the bus depot. A taxi from the train station will cost approximately €6 – €8.

    What is there to see and do around the hotel?

    The central location makes Maldron Hotel Portlaoise the perfect base for you when exploring Ireland’s Midlands. We are near Mondello Park, Kildare Village, Curragh Racecourse, and the Slieve Bloom Mountains as well as many other top attractions in Co Laois, such as Emo Court & Gardens, Rock of Dunamase, Birr Castle, Kildare National Stud and Stradbally.

    Does the hotel offer a Shuttle Bus or Taxi Service to Electric Picnic?

    We can arrange a taxi to Electric Picnic for you. Please get in touch with our reception team.

    How far is the Hotel from the Curragh Racecourse?

    The hotel is located 41km from the Curragh Racecourse. Take exit 12 off the M7 Motorway.

    Is there a car rental station near the hotel?

    Yes, there is a car rental station located just 2km and a short 5-minute drive from the hotel. Please ask our reception team for more information and directions.

  • Rooms & Amenities

    What room types does the hotel offer?

    Maldron Hotel Portlaoise boasts a total of 90 comfortable hotel rooms. Depending on your needs, you can choose between 4 different room types, including Standard Double Rooms, Superior Rooms, Family Rooms and Executive Rooms. We also a number of interconnecting rooms available at the hotel.

    Are there wheelchair accessible rooms available?

    Maldron Hotel Portlaoise has 5 fully wheelchair accessible rooms available which have a larger floor space, larger bedroom entrance, adapted bathroom facilities and an assistance alarm linked directly to the hotel reception.

    Does the hotel have family rooms?

    Yes, we offer a number of spacious family rooms. All of our family rooms accommodate either 2 adults and 1 child or 2 adults and 2 children under the age of 12 years. If you should need some more space, we also have interconnecting rooms available. For a special rate on interconnecting rooms, call the hotel on +353 (0)57 869 5900 or email res.portlaoise@maldronhotels.com.

    Can I get a cot or camp bed in my room?

    Yes, cots are available. As there is limited availability, please note this at the time of your reservation to avoid disappointment.

    Are the hotel rooms air-conditioned?

    Yes, air-conditioning is available in all guest bedrooms.

    Do the bathrooms have a shower or a bath?

    All hotel bedrooms have a bath and shower.

    Does the hotel offer wake-up calls?

    Yes, we do offer wake-up calls. Please speak to a member of the reception team to arrange.

    What amenities are included in the room?

    All our hotel rooms have a hairdryer, iron and ironing board, in-room safe as well as tea and coffee making facilities.

  • Dining

    What dining options are available at the hotel?

    Our Grain & Grill bar and restaurant serves up the finest local produce to enjoy for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

    Does the hotel offer breakfast?

    Yes, we are renowned for a great selection of breakfast options available each morning. Choose from traditional grilled breakfast items as well as healthier and nutritious options to kickstart your morning. Breakfast is served at our Grain & Grill restaurant 7 days a week from 7am to 10am Monday to Friday and from 8am to 11am at weekends and bank holidays (for those who like to have a lie-in).

    If breakfast isn’t included in your rate, you can still purchase breakfast for an additional €11 for adults and €6 for kids.

    What are the opening times of the Grain & Grill?

    Lunch is served at Grain & Grill restaurant from 12.30 to 2.30 Monday to Saturday and from 12.30 pm to 3pm Sundays and Bank Holidays.

    I am staying on a Sunday. Do you serve food on Sundays?

    The hotel offers breakfast from 8am to 11am, Lunch from 12.30pm to 3pm and an Early Bird/A La Carte menu from 5.30pm to 8.00 pm on Sundays.

    Does the restaurant cater food for allergies?

    Yes, all of our menus have a full allergy listing. Please inform your waiter if you have any allergies, vegetarian or dietary requirements and our kitchen team will be delighted to assist.

    Does Gain & Grill offer a dedicated kid’s menu?

    Yes, we offer a dedicated menu for our little ones. In addition, kids can also enjoy a 2-course meal plus a drink for €10.95 (under 12’s).

    Do you provide room service?

    Yes, in-room dining is available daily. You can order from our Click & Go menu, available through our Guest Service Platform. The food can be collected at the collection point in our restaurant at your requested time.

    Is there a reservation for dinner required?

    No, a dining reservation is in general not required. However, we advise you to reserve your table in advance to avoid disappointment. To pre-book, please contact our team via phone on +353 (0)57 869 5900 or email res.portlaoise@maldronhotels.com.

    Is there any entertainment available in the hotel?

    Yes, we have live music available on selected nights.

    Do you cater for large groups? Can I book a private dining space for a special occasion?

    Yes, we cater for large groups and special occasion. To enquire, please contact us via phone on +353 (0)57 869 5900 or email res.portlaoise@maldronhotels.com.

  • Leisure Facilities

    Does the hotel offer a swimming pool and gym facilities on-site?

    Yes, our leisure centre has a 20m swimming pool with a separate kiddies pool. We also have a jacuzzi, sauna and steam room on-site. For our more active guests, we provide a fully equipped and state-of-the-art gym catering for cardio, core and strength training. Whether you want to maintain your workout routine or plan to relax and unwind, you can do both in Club Vitae at Maldron Hotel Portlaoise.

    How deep is the pool in Club Vitae leisure centre?

    The pool depth is 1.2 meters.

    What are the opening hours of the leisure facilities?

    The leisure facilities at Maldron Hotel Portlaoise opens from 7am to 10pm Monday to Friday and from 8am to 8pm on weekends and bank holidays.

    Kids are welcome until 6:45pm daily. Extended summer hours (July & August) until 7pm.

    Is there an age limit for using the leisure facilities?

    Yes, children under 14 years old must be fully supervised and have a parent or guardian in the pool with them at all times. Please note that under 16’s are not permitted to use the steam room, Jacuzzi, sauna and gym.

    Is the use of the leisure facilities complimentary for guests?

    Yes, the use of our leisure facilities is complimentary to all of our guests.

    Is there a spa in the hotel?

    Yes, the ALken Beauty Clinic is located on the first floor of the hotel. They offer a variety of complementary holistic treatments and also a range of beauty treatments tailored to suit your needs. To make a booking contact us on +353 (0)57 869 5933 or email info@alken.ie.

    What are the opening times from the spa area?

    The opening times are from 10am to 6pm Tuesday to Saturday. Should you require a Sunday appointment, advance booking is required with a minimum of four people. You can contact the spa team directly on +353 (0)57 869 5933.

  • Meetings & Events

    Are there meeting and event room facilities available at the hotel?

    Yes, we have 11 flexible meeting rooms available, suitable for business meetings, group meetings, training courses and exhibitions.

    Does the hotel facilitate conferences?

    Yes, our hotel does facilitate conferences.

    How many people do your meeting rooms accommodate?

    Depending on the meeting room layout, our largest meeting room (Abbeyleix Suite) can accommodate up to 100 people theatre style.

    What equipment is included in the meeting rooms?

    All our meeting rooms are equipped with flipcharts, stationery, mints, water and an LCD projector. In addition, free high-speed WiFi will be provided complimentary in all meeting rooms as well as air conditioning. Our meeting rooms have natural daylight and blackout curtains.

    Are there food and beverage options available?

    Yes, we have a variety of refreshments and dining options as well as customised menus available for meetings to suit your budget and requirements. For more information, please contact our meetings team via phone on +353 (0)57 869 5900 or email info.portlaoise@maldronhotels.com.

    Do you have corporate rates available?

    Yes, we have corporate rates and packages available. Should you wish to inquire about setting up a preferred agreement, feel free to contact Lisa Sinnott lsinnott@maldronhotels.com or call +353 (0)57 869 5900.

  • Booking & Cancellation

    What is Make It Maldron and how do I sign up?

    Signing up and being part of Make it Maldron means you can save €10/£10 per room per night every time you book directly on our website (excludes selected sale and promotional special offers). To sign up, visit our ‘Make It Maldron’ page and join in 3 simple steps to ensure your discount is applied to all future online bookings.

    Can I claim back on the Stay and Spend Tax Credit Scheme?

    Yes, we are delighted to confirm that all Maldron Hotels are registered for the Stay and Spend Tax Credit Scheme. That means if you stay with us between 1st October 2020 and 30th April 2021 you can claim up to €125 under this scheme, please see revenue.ie for more information and details.

    What is the best way to make a reservation?

    The best way to book is online on our website where you can easily see our best rates and what exclusive offers and packages are available. Alternatively, you can call us on +353 (0)57 869 5900 or email res.portlaoise@maldronhotels.com.

    What should I do if I haven’t received a booking confirmation?

    If you have not received your booking confirmation, try to check your spam/junk folder. If you still haven’t received it, please contact our reservations team on +353 (0)57 869 5900 or email res.portlaoise@maldronhotels.com and they will be happy to help or to re-issue a new confirmation.

    What payment methods does the hotel accept?

    Maldron Hotel Portlaoise accepts all major credit/debit cards and cash payments.

    What is the hotel’s credit/debit card policy?

    A valid credit/debit card is required to secure all bookings made online or over the phone, unless in cases where this is otherwise stated. Please note that nothing is charged to the card at booking stage when booking directly with the hotel (with the exception of advance purchase offers or bookings that require a deposit. This will be clearly outlined in the special offer terms and conditions).

    For all rooms that are being paid for in cash must be accompanied with photographic ID. No rooms will be let unless payment is guaranteed.

    What age are children for the purpose of hotel packages?

    Under 12’s are considered to be children.

    How do I make a group or multiple room booking?

    To make a group or multi-room booking, please contact our reservations team via phone on +353 (0)57 869 5900 or email res.portlaoise@maldronhotels.com and they’re happy to assist you with your request.

    Are there any age restrictions when booking a hotel room?

    To book a hotel room, you must be at least 18 years old. All under 18s must be accompanied by a guardian or parent.

    Can I show up at the hotel without a booking?

    Yes, we can accept walk-in bookings. However, we would always recommend to call ahead to the hotel or booking online prior to arriving to secure your reservation and to avoid disappointment.

    Can I extend my stay?

    Yes, depending on availability, we’ll be happy to accommodate you for further nights at an additional cost. Please contact our reception team if you plan to extend your stay.

    How do I amend or cancel my booking?

    If you have booked directly with the hotel, you can amend or cancel your booking by visiting the ‘Manage Booking’ section on our website by using your confirmation number and email address. Alternatively, you can call us directly on +353 (0)57 869 5900 or email res.portlaoise@maldronhotels.com to cancel or amend your booking.

    What is the cancellation policy?

    If you have booked the reservation directly with the hotel over the phone or online, Maldron Hotel Portlaoise offers free cancellation up to 2pm on the day prior to arrival unless advance purchase non-refundable rate was selected. Please note that some special offers and key dates outlined in the terms and conditions may specify a special cancellation policy applicable to that offer and date.

    How can I cancel my reservation if I booked via a third-party website?

    If you have booked via a third-party website, you will need to contact the third-party website directly to amend or cancel your booking as we cannot do that on your behalf. Please note that they have their own cancellation policies, so please refer to your confirmation email.

    What does the “no-show” policy entail?

    If a guest makes a reservation and fails to show up or doesn’t cancel the reservation successfully then we will take payment for the first night’s stay from the credit or debit card provided at the time of booking. If your booking is advance purchase, the total amount will be non-refundable and you will incur a 100% penalty charge for the entire duration of your stay.

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