A 700-hectare Coillte forest on the slopes of Woodcock Hill, with panoramic views over the Shannon Estuary and a superb eco-playground — a great family escape just 10 km from Limerick.
An extensive network of forest roads and trails winds through mixed woodland of spruce, pine, oak and birch. The main walking trail from the car park is about 2 km long, but you can roam for hours on the wider road network. Some minor trails remain closed due to storm damage — follow on-site signage.
This eco-friendly playground, opened in 2011, uses Robinia wood throughout and blends into the forest setting. Kids will find swings, slides, a climbing fort with sand area, and a zip line. Designed to get children engaging with nature in all seasons.
About 500 m in from the car park, this small lake is home to ducks and waterfowl. Picnic tables and benches are dotted around the shore, making it a peaceful spot to stop for lunch.
From elevated points in the wood you can see the Shannon Estuary, Shannon Airport to the west, the Galtee Mountains in Tipperary to the east, and the Ballyhoura Mountains in North Cork to the south.
Keep an eye out for red squirrels, foxes, badgers, and pheasants. The mix of conifer plantation and native broadleaf woodland supports a rich variety of birdlife including woodcock.
The forest road network is open to mountain biking and e-biking. Trails are also used by hikers and trail runners, so share the paths.
Load the interactive map to explore this place location.
