Clonaslee is a small settlement on the edge of Slieve Bloom Mountain. It exists because the mountain made a use for it — grazing land, the walk to the summit, the Glenbarrow waterfall nearby. The population is small, the pubs are basic, and that is the attraction.
Come for the waterfall walk and the mountain. Stay in one of the few guesthouses. Leave with the mountain in your legs.
None of these are themed Irish pubs, because they don't need to be. A few that earn the trip:
Simple pub. Coffee, pint, a fireplace in winter. Maps and information about walks.
| Place | Type | Local note | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local guesthouses (ask locals) | B&B | Small guesthouses in the area. Ring ahead — occupancy is seasonal. | |
Wear waterproofs. Bring a sandwich. Tell someone where you're going if it's the mountain.
There is no bad time. There are different times.
Clear days coming more often, lambs on the lower slopes.
The mountain is best in summer. Go early in the day — cloud comes in the afternoon.
Clear skies, gold light, the best time.
The mountain closes itself half the year in cloud and ice. Winter walkers only if you know what you are doing.
If a local was sitting beside you, this is the bit where they'd lean in.
The summit is featureless when cloud sits on it. You see nothing and risk getting lost. Wait for clear.
It is a village of 80 people. There are no services, no restaurants, no shops.
The mountain is not technical but it is big and exposed. Bring an OS map and a compass.
North-west of Mountrath, toward Kinnitty. About 25 km from Mountrath.
Limited or no service. Check with Laois County Council.