A local partnership between Coillte, the Forest Service, Rath Community Group and Rathwood Home & Garden World, under a NeighbourWood Scheme, has resulted in serene, tranquil woodland walks, open to the public at Rath. The Forest Walks, extending over 4 kilometres, have been carefully planned to include a short leisurely wheelchair accessible walk to the Lake and a longer looped “Molloy Walk”. Joe Molloy was a local historian and farmer, who was involved in the first planting of the forest over half a century ago.

This working forest is a valuable and rewarding educational tool, given the vast ecological resources of flora, wildlife and tree species contained within its 185 acre boundaries. Rath Wood offers a sanctuary for many mammals, birds and insect species. Expect to see deer, rabbits, mink, foxes, pheasants and dragonflies among others. The forest contains a great variety of tree species including beech, oak, sitka spruce, norway spruce, birch, douglas fir and alder.

Take a pleasant stroll across the natural beauty of Rath Wood and discover a landscape rich in geology, archaeology and wild life. The historical feature of Rathgall Hillfort which dates back to 800 B.C. is located nearby.

Member website: Rathwood.com

see also Rathwood Garden Centre