A former demesne woodland on the southern slopes of the Galtee Mountains, where giant sequoias and exotic rhododendrons line the paths and the Burncourt River carves through the forest — an easy escape just off the M8 motorway.
An easy 2 km loop taking about 30–60 minutes. Starts through a dense canopy of mature yew trees before crossing the Burncourt River and passing through a stand of Scots pine. Many broadleaf trees are tagged with name labels — great for kids.
A moderate 6.5–7 km loop (approx. 2.5 hours, 250 m ascent). Follows forest tracks and paths along the Burncourt River, through the Millennium Forest, past the historic Mountain Lodge, with views across the lowlands to the Knockmealdown Mountains. Includes a shallow river ford crossing — waterproof boots recommended.
Built in 1872 by Viscount Lismore as a hunting and fishing lodge, this striking stone building sits in a beautiful clearing about 2.5 km from the main road. Now being restored by the local Burncourt community, it occasionally hosts events like wellbeing days.
Right around the main car park, you'll find an extraordinary collection of specimen trees: Californian sequoia, Bhutan pine, Wellingtonia (giant sequoia), yew and Monterey cypress — many planted during the Shanbally Estate era. In early summer, a closed canopy of exotic rhododendron flowers over the main access road.
The Burncourt River runs through the heart of the wood, crossed by footbridges and log bridges. After heavy rain the river swells into an impressive rush — a highlight of the riverside sections of both trails.
Part of a nationwide project marking the year 2000: a tree was planted for every household in Ireland. At Glengarra, this newer native woodland of oak, ash, Scots pine, yew and birch blends into the historic demesne woodland.
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