Mountbellew Forest Walk

3.2 miles (5.2 km)

Mountbellew Forest lies on the edge of the town of Mountbellew in County Galway and provides a peaceful woodland walk away from the busier trails of the region.
The forest was once part of the Bellew estate and traces of that history remain, including stone walls, an ice house and other estate features scattered among the trees.
The walk follows a network of tracks and paths through mixed woodland with stands of conifers and broadleaved trees such as oak, ash and beech. In spring the woodland floor comes alive with bluebells and other wildflowers, while at other times of year the dappled light through the canopy creates a calm, shaded atmosphere. Birds are plentiful and it is common to hear their calls echoing through the trees.
Some paths run close to the River Castlegar, where the water flows quietly past grassy banks and attracts herons and ducks. Wooden footbridges and clearings beside the river make pleasant stopping points. Away from the river, the trails wind deeper into the forest with occasional glimpses of open fields beyond the trees.
You can continue your woodland walking on the Ballinasloe�Forest Walk at Woodlawn Woods.