Brandon Way

Brandon Way is a moderate long-distance hiking route that climbs to the summit of Brandon Hill (Cnoc Bhréanail) in County Kilkenny, Ireland. The recorded route distance is 9.22 km, with unpaved path surface throughout.

The route is structured as a short loop/connection walk centered on Brandon Hill, tying together minor-road segments near Graiguenamanagh with forest tracks in Gorlough Wood and open hillside sections as you approach the top.

After leaving the town area, it merges into forest roadway/track as it winds into Gorlough Wood. Expect the walking to shift from road travel into track travel over this early climb.

Farther up, the route zig-zags along forestry track around Ballinvarry Hill, then transitions onto green roadway leading toward the final ascent to Brandon Hill.

The summit day’s main payoff is the 515 m high Brandon Hill top, with open hillside walking on the way up and more committed, steep descents on the return side of the loop.

Wet-weather matters on this route: paths can become muddy and rocky when conditions are damp, so plan to use proper footwear and be ready for traction issues on the forest-to-open transitions.

More information: Visit Brandon Hill Loop with Discover Ireland, Mount Brandon - Morrison Tours, Brandon Hill - PeakVisor