BALLINASTOE
WOODS
POCKET IRELAND › Place Guides › Ballinastoe Woods
See also: Forest Photos | Tree Pictures
Ballinastoe Woods is one of the most atmospheric spots in the Wicklow Mountains, often described as having a Lord of the Rings "Middle-earth" quality. It is located near the Sally Gap, just outside the village of Roundwood.
The Atmosphere ("The Fangorn Forest Vibe")
Ballinastoe is dense with tall, uniform Sika spruce trees. Because the canopy is so thick, very little light reaches the forest floor, creating a dark, quiet, and moody atmosphere even on bright days. The ground is carpeted in vibrant green moss, giving it a mystical, cinematic feel. It feels very much like Mirkwood or Fangorn Forest from Tokien’s world. It is a fantastic location if you are ever looking for a moody backdrop for photography.
The Famous "Boardwalk"
You may have seen my photos of a narrow wooden boardwalk winding through the dark trees. This is the most famous feature of the woods. It is actually part of the mountain biking trails (and some walking sections), so it looks like a wooden railway track cutting through the gloom. The boardwalk creates a "tunnel" effect with the trees arching overhead—a favourite spot for photographers.
Hiking & Views
If you enjoy hiking, you should aim for the route that leads out of the dense woods and up toward the JB Malone Memorial. Once you break the tree line and hike up the boardwalk sleepers to the memorial stone, you get one of the most iconic views in Ireland: Lough Tay (The Guinness Lake). It is called the Guinness Lake not just because the Guinness family owns the Luggala estate next to it, but because the dark peaty water and the white sandy beach at the top make it look exactly like a pint of stout.
Mountain Biking
I am not a mountain biker, hut it is useful to know that Ballinastoe is one of Ireland's premier Mountain Bike hubs. The woods are crisscrossed with dedicated bike trails (14km+ of them). If you are walking, keep your eyes open and ears pricked, as bikes can come down the steep sections at speed. Stick to the designated walking trails (Slí na Sláinte) to be safe.
General Information
Address
Ballinastoe Woods,
Ballinastoe,
County Wicklow
Accessibility
Not wheelchair accessible.
Opening Hours
Forest open 24 hours (see below for parking).
Parking
The main, large car park is only open at weekends. It has a small coffee hut for hot drinks and snacks.
At other times you will need to park in one of the smaller roadside spots further up the hill where you can walk up and enter the forest from the top.
Parking is free.
