Curraghchase Forest Park

Curraghchase Forest Park
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About

A 300-hectare former de Vere estate of rolling parkland, lakes and an old arboretum, with the shell of Curraghchase House looking down over the water. Six waymarked trails, two playgrounds and easy lakeside paths make it a full day out for families and walkers.

Things to Do

Lake Trail

A 1.1km, 20-minute multi-access loop around the man-made lake, wide and smooth enough for wheelchairs, stabiliser bikes and buggies, with the best views of the old house facade.

Curragh and Glenisca trails

Multi-use walking and cycling loops of 2.4km (easy, 30 mins) and 3.6km (moderate, 1 hour) that head into the wider forest past an old cave, limestone outcrops and native yew woodland.

Arboretum and pet cemetery

The de Veres assembled trees and shrubs from all over the world. Stroll the 1.1km arboretum trail and seek out the estate's hidden gem, the old pet cemetery.

Playgrounds and picnics

Two extensive playgrounds, plus picnic tables and barbecue stands at the main car park area.

Orienteering and Wheel-O

A permanent orienteering course spreads controls across the park, with downloadable maps and answersheets, plus a Wheel-O course designed for wheelchair users.

Wildlife and nature

Special Areas of Conservation protect the lesser horseshoe bat, the rare hawfinch is often seen among the hornbeam trees, and ducks and waterfowl crowd the lake.

Plan Your Visit

  • Hours: 07:00–21:00 from 1 April to 31 October; 08:00–18:00 from 1 November to 31 March. Toilets open during park opening hours only.
  • Admission: Free entry to the park; car parking is charged via a cashless system (card or app-based payment).
  • Parking: Main car park at the entrance, with wheelchair-accessible spaces. Payment is cashless — credit/debit card or app-based system, no coins. Coillte annual passes are still valid.
  • Food: There is a café on site, and picnic tables and barbecue stands at the main car park area. Nearby villages include Kilcornan, Pallaskenry and Askeaton.

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