County Westmeath boasts a variety of scenic walking trails and greenways, making it a haven for couples who enjoy the outdoors. Castle Varagh Hotel serves as the ideal base to explore these picturesque routes and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region.
Mullaghameen Forest is the largest planted beech forest in Ireland. The forest also is home to Scots pine and noble fir alongside a number of native tree species and plenty of wildlife including grey squirrels, jays, badgers, foxes, pheasant, rabbits, hares and a variety of different birds. It features almost 23 kilometres of walking track and leads to the highest point in Westmeath which offers spectacular views across Lough Sheelin and into County Cavan. With a range of trails for varying levels of fitness, the White Trail provides a reminder of the famine with relic walls, while the Red Walk features a summer grazing shelter known as the Booley Hut.
Mullaghameen ForestA 3km looped walk around the historic village of Fore, this trail allows visitors to explore an early Christian settlement founded in the 7th century.Highlights include the ruins of Fore Abbey, the 'Seven Wonders of Fore,' and a charming fairy village nestled in the woodland.
St. Feichin’s Way, ForeThe Royal Canal Greenway in County Westmeath offers a scenic 46km stretch of the full 130km route that traces the historic Royal Canal. This well-maintained, off-road path runs from the Meath border in the east to the Longford border in the west, making it perfect for walking and cycling enthusiasts. Highlights include a 4km spur leading to the tranquil shores of Lough Owel and a key connection at Mullingar with the Old Rail Trail, which is set to extend all the way to Galway.
Royal Canal GreenwayThe Old Rail Trail is a scenic 43km off-road greenway connecting Athlone to Mullingar. Ideal for walkers, cyclists, and families, it follows the historic Midlands Great Western Railway line, passing restored stations, stone bridges, and areas rich in heritage and biodiversity. Peaceful and safe, it’s a perfect way to discover Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands.
Old Rail TrailSpanning 165km, the National Famine Way is a marked walking and cycling trail that retraces the poignant journey of forced emigration during the Great Famine in 1847. Starting at the haunting glass wall memorial at the National Famine Museum | Strokestown Park in County Roscommon, the route winds through six counties, ending at EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum in Dublin’s Docklands. Along the way, over 30 pairs of bronze children’s shoes mark key points, symbolising the lives forever changed by this tragic chapter in Irish history.
National Famine WayEnjoy a scenic 3km walk that takes around 30 minutes to complete and is suitable for all ages. No booking is required—just come along and enjoy! The trail winds through the animal park, along the lakeshore, beside the Croboy Stream and River Deel, and into the forest.
After your walk, relax in the sheltered seating area with a cup of coffee. The experience is completely self-guided, with no staff on site. We rely on two honesty boxes—one for the trail and one for the coffee shop.
Strictly no dogs as this is a wildlife sanctuary. Trail closes 30 minutes before dusk.
Derrymore Springs TrailA raised bog that is rare in Europe, Girley Bog has been developed as a six-kilometre looped eco-walk (with a shorter internal walk of 1.5 kilometres) that meanders through forest and bogland, revealing a vast array of birds, plants and wildlife. Girley Bog is an EU Life Site situated a half hour drive from Castle Varagh Hotel on the N52.
Girley Bog
