Mullaghreelan Wood — Attraction in The Municipal District of Athy

Spent my childhood playing and climbing in Mullaghreelan. Was there when the Lorcan O'Tuathail commemorative stone was placed. My grandfather worked for Coillte you see, and he tended to all the local woods for 40 years. He would have his lunch in the little derelict cottage before nature took over. He would take all the grandchildren up to 'the hill' to get us out from under Nan's feet while she cooked dinner. I've seen the Devil's stone, made a wish at the Wishing Well, inhaled the scent of the fragrant carpet of bluebells and kicked Autumn leaves underfoot. Of course, the highlight is the hill itself, an ancient Fort, looking out over the plains of Kildare. As a child, I could see Kilkea Castle and my grandparents' house, but now, the trees are so high, they block the view from the hill. My entire childhood a wonderful memory. And just as much...

Fantastic place for a walk, whether alone or with the family it's a great place to get out. When you arrive you're greater with a sign holding a map of the area, on the walk there are boards that give a history of the area and tell of events that took place there. The views are amazing, and shockingly diverse, from a swamp like area to green evergreen woods and a grassy hill high above it all it is an incredibly place to visit. I visited in winter and got some amazing photos of the frost. A cool half hour by bicycle from Athy and...

Another brilliant family walk. Extended carpark is a great help at weekends. Picnic tables here aswell. We walk the perimeter tracks just to have a brisk walk with the children then they become the "leaders". They lead the way, criss crossing all the internal paths. Probably walk the whole woods twice, but very enjoyable. Always end up at the Rath. Great way to spend an hour or two with the kids. Always litter free in the woods, carpark unfortunately...