The Slieve Bloom Mountains rise between Counties Offaly and Laois – a quiet, heather-topped range of forests, peat bogs and open views. At their foothills, Kinnitty Castle sits in parkland on the edge of the woods, a mock‑Gothic mansion with turrets, stone staircases and open fires. This private day trip from Dublin or Dublin Airport combines both: upland scenery and a characterful castle stop, without the stress of self‑drive.
Snapshot for planners
- Distance: ≈120–140 km each way (Dublin → Slieve Bloom / Kinnitty)
- Typical day length: 8–10 hours door‑to‑door
- Route: M7 / M6 corridor, then regional roads into the Slieve Bloom area
- Style: relaxed pace, short walks and viewpoints rather than long hikes
Suggested day itinerary (flexible)
- Pick‑up in Dublin – hotel, Airbnb or Dublin Airport, with luggage storage in the vehicle if needed.
- Scenic drive into the Slieve Bloom Mountains – upland roads with stop‑and‑photograph viewpoints.
- Short loop walk – such as a forest or boardwalk trail (30–90 minutes; options for different fitness levels).
- Lunch stop – local café, village pub or hotel (meals paid directly).
- Visit to Kinnitty Castle – coffee by the fire, grounds walk, or simply photos and a wander through the public areas (subject to hotel operations).
- Return to Dublin – late‑afternoon or early‑evening drop‑off.
Highlights in the Slieve Bloom & Offaly area
- Ridge and forest viewpoints – open panoramas across the Midlands and gentle, way‑marked trails.
- Kinnitty village – quiet, traditional village at the base of the mountains.
- Kinnitty Castle – Gothic‑style castle hotel surrounded by woods and lawns, often used for weddings and retreats.
- Heritage stops nearby – monastic sites, bridges and old estate houses that can be added on request.
Who this day trip suits
- Couples seeking a quieter, less touristy alternative to busier national parks.
- Families wanting short walks, picnics and castle photos rather than long hikes.
- Heritage & landscape travellers who prefer calm scenery, woodland trails and smaller villages.
- Guests without a rental car who still want to explore Ireland beyond Dublin.
Vehicle options & indicative pricing
Pricing is based on a full‑day, private service from Dublin, including the driver waiting while you explore.
- Mercedes S‑Class First Class (up to 3 guests, 2 large suitcases): from €590 for the day
- Mercedes V‑Class / MPV (up to 6 guests, 6 suitcases): from €640 for the day
Final quotes depend on season, exact timings and any additional locations you wish to add (for example Birr, Clonmacnoise or heritage sites along the Shannon).
What’s included
- Private, exclusive use of the vehicle for the day
- Door‑to‑door pick‑up and drop‑off in Dublin or at Dublin Airport
- Professional, discreet driver familiar with the region
- Fuel, tolls, standard parking and driver waiting time
- Complimentary bottled water; snacks on request
- Child seats on request (infant / child / booster – please give ages in advance)
Entrance tickets, meals and guided walks (if booked) are not included and are paid directly to local providers.
How flexible is the plan?
This is a private service, so the itinerary can be adjusted around the weather, your walking preferences and how much time you want at each stop. Some guests focus more on viewpoints, others on Kinnitty Castle and a long lunch – your driver will help keep the timing realistic.
Book your Slieve Bloom day trip
Your Journey, Your Way – enjoy a quieter side of Ireland on a private day trip from Dublin to the Slieve Bloom Mountains and Kinnitty Castle, with a flexible schedule, comfortable vehicles and a driver who takes care of the roads while you enjoy the views.