Slieve Bloom Mountains
What to Expect
The Slieve Bloom Mountains, on the border of Laois and Offaly, are among the oldest mountains in Europe, formed more than 400 million years ago.
They offer a calm, spacious landscape of forest, open heath, bog and mountain streams, and are close enough to Roundwood to be enjoyed without committing to a long journey.
There is a wide choice of marked walking routes in the Slieve Blooms.
In total, there are 17 looped walks of varying length, with trailheads at Kinnitty, Cadamstown, Clonaslee, Glenbarrow and Monicknew.
The routes are well signposted and suit everything from a short, gentle walk to a longer day out.
Organised walks also take place on many weekends throughout the year.
Mountain Trails
The looped walks are a good way to explore the area at your own pace, as they start and finish in the same place and can be chosen to suit the time and energy you have.
Glenbarrow is a particularly popular starting point, with several established routes and access to the wider trail network.
For more experienced walkers, The Slieve Bloom Way offers a longer challenge. This is a demanding, waymarked circular route of approximately 71 kilometres, typically completed over three to four days, with access points including Glenbarrow and Monicknew.
We are always happy to suggest a suitable walk or starting point, depending on the weather and how much time you have.
Stay
Roundwood House is a place to settle in, spend time together, and enjoy accommodation in a house that is still lived in and used as it was meant to be.
Dining
Dinner at Roundwood House centres on seasonal, thoughtful cooking using ingredients sourced as locally as possible.
Gift Vouchers
Roundwood House gift vouchers can be used towards a stay and/or dinner. They suit birthdays, anniversaries or simply giving someone time away.
Testimonials
“Roundwood House in County Laois is one of Ireland’s finest mid-size houses of the Georgian period…”
Maurice Craig
Classic Irish Houses of the Middle Size, 1976
“From the minute we turned into the driveway, we were in raptures, as the house is filled with character, style and history. You have to eat dinner here; please don’t even think about going anywhere else! And breakfast couldn’t be better. Hannah was a wonderful host.”
Joanne W.
“Hannah and Paddy are wonderful hosts who go out of their way to make you feel at home… The food is divine… Paddy is not only an amazing cook but a talented musician too.”
Richard & Fiona, Killiney, Dublin
“We stayed in Writers Cottage. Pictures do not do this little Cottage justice… This hidden gem in the woods is packed with atmosphere & character… I highly recommend this accommodation”.
Tim T.
“A group of 12 enjoyed a perfect overnight stay here with ducks, hens and dogs in the grounds to greet us… Hannah was a perfect host, warm, welcoming, available but never intrusive. Paddy the chef produces the best meal I ever tasted.”
Margaret T.
“We found the house magical and the hospitality extended to us above and beyond. We had the 4 course dinner prepared by Paddy both nights of our stay and it was phenomenal.”
Toby M.
“Hannah and all the staff offered a masterclass in hospitality at its best. A gracious host, everything was managed exactly as you’d want it to be. The food was spectacular. The house and library are so charming.”
Alice Simington
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