Site Name:

National Grid Reference

R 416 523   Understanding grid references

Ordnance Survey Ireland Discovery Series:

65

Location

The park is located 22km west of Limerick on the N69 coast road to Foynes, close to Kilcornan and Askeaton.   Download location map

How do I get there?

From Limerick take the N69 coast road west heading towards Foynes. Pass through Kildimo village and continue to Kilcornan.  Turn left just leaving Kilcornan and follow this road for 3.5 kms to reach the entrance of the Forest Park. It is clearly signposted from the main road (N69).

Curragh Chase Forest Park Trail(s)

• Glenisca Walking Trail
• Glenisca Family Cycling Trail
• Curragh Walking Trail
• Curragh Family Cycling
• Lake Trail
• Arboretum Trail
• Download Map - All Trails

The park cover 313 hectares of mixed woodlands, park land and lakes which together provide a rich habitat for a diverse range of animals and plants.

Originally, the name of the estate was Curragh (meaning bog) before it was changed to Curragh Chase by Sir Aubrey de Vere.  Aubrey Thomas de Vere a poet and author, was born at Curragh Chase in 1814. Aubrey died in 1902 having lived mostly at Curragh Chase.  Curragh Chase was acquired in 1957 by the Forestry Division and in the 1970s was established as a forest park.

There are several special areas of conservation in the park and Coillte is currently involved in restoring native woodlands to important sites in the park.

There are a number of looped way marked trails in the park to suit all visitors. They vary from the multi-access trails suitable for wheelchair users and family walkers to the longer Curragh and Glenisca trails suitable for those looking for more demanding walking and cycling.

Parking fee €5 or €30 Annual Admittance Card - to purchase, call 087 9955363 or please forward your name, address and a cheque for €30 to Eileen O'Keeffe, Coillte, Unit 5 Castletroy Business Park, Castletroy, Limerick.

Walks: There are a number of trails in the park: a trail of approximately 3km takes you around the lake and gives you the opportunity of visiting the deVere monument overlooking the lake. There is also a garden walk incorporating some specimen trees and a children's playground along the way.

Tree Species: There is a large area of mixed There is a large area of mixed woodlands, the greatest part of this site consists of large stands of beech, ash and oak. The oldest of these trees is about 200 years old. A large area of Norway spruce trees have also been planted.

Click here for information relating to Curragh Chase Caravan Park and Camping Park

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