Something for the new year? Get fresh with these great local walking routes…

By Hayden Moore

LOOKING to get your steps in for the new year?

Here are some of the best places around South Dublin County for not only enjoying a walk with family and friends, but for taking in the beauty that surrounds the county.

Bohernabreena Reservoir

The peaceful and picturesque Bohernabreena Reservoir makes up a section of the Dublin Mountains Way, which has been included in the book ‘1001 Walks You Must Experience Before You Die’.

The Valley of the River Liffey

Walk alongside the beautiful banks of the River Liffey and escape to nature along the Valley stretching from Palmerstown to Lucan. All along the trail you can stop to absorb the heritage and for a bite to eat in the local villages.

Corkagh Park to Clondalkin Village

(Photo by Ben Ryan)

Embark on a wander through the 290-acre Corkagh Park that possesses large lakes, a rose garden and a pet farm before meandering down towards the Round Tower to breath in the rich history of Clondalkin.

Hellfire Club

Sat atop Montpelier Hill, the 383-metre climb will bring you straight to the mysterious Hellfire Club – where it is rumoured to have played host to the mythical card game involving the devil himself.

Surrounding the old hunting lodge is Lord Massy’s Woods, a grand forest full of mystery and intrigue just like the building found on top of the hill.

Rathfarnham

Rathfarnham can prove an idyllic ramble for those interested in local heritage with a 90-minute guided tour around the grounds of Rathfarnham Castle just the starting point while minutes down the road, walkers can find St Enda’s Park and Pearse Museum.

To find the full list of the top of the range walks pulled together by Dublin’s Outdoors and South Dublin County Council, click HERE.