Parks & Outdoors · Trails · Portarlington
Derryounce Lakes and Trails
Derryounce Lakes and Trails is a tranquil network of woodland, bog and lakeside walks just north of Portarlington. Choose from waymarked routes of approximately 3 km, 5.6 km and up to 10.5–14 km through a restored former peatland landscape with two lakes, forest paths and wetland wildlife.
Category: Trails / Nature & Outdoors
Location: Derryounce, just north of Portarlington, County Offaly
Route type: Looped woodland, bog and lakeside trails
Main routes: Approximately 3 km, 5.6 km and 10.5–14 km
Price: Free
Dogs: Allowed on a lead
Overview
Derryounce Lakes and Trails is a peaceful outdoor amenity just outside Portarlington, set within a former Bord na Móna peat bog that has gradually transformed into woodland, wetland and open water.
At the heart of the site are two man-made lakes surrounded by maturing forest, bogland and signed walking routes. The setting feels unexpectedly remote and tranquil despite being only a short distance from town.
The trails
Visitors can choose from several waymarked routes:
Yellow route: approximately 3 km
Blue Bog Lake Walk: 5.6 km
Red Bog Oak Walk: 10.5 km officially listed by Sport Ireland, although local information also describes the longest route as approximately 14 km.
The Blue and Red routes are both loop walks beginning and ending at the car park on the L7178 Bog Road. The trails are generally flat, but longer routes still require suitable footwear and a reasonable level of fitness.
Landscape and history
Derryounce was once part of the Clonsast group of industrial bogs and supplied peat to the former ESB power station at Portarlington. Industrial peat production ended in the 1980s.
When pumping stopped, a lowered section of bog filled permanently with water and became Lough Lurgan. Derryounce Lake was created separately by excavating through the peat to the sand beneath it. Together, the lakes, wetlands and surrounding forest now form the centre of the recreation area.
What to notice
Look out for lakeside views, wetland vegetation, woodland paths and community art installations along the routes. The sandy edge beside Derryounce Lake gives part of the site the appearance of a small inland beach.
The area attracts walkers, anglers, wildlife enthusiasts and photographers. Deer, waterbirds and other wildlife may also be seen around the woodland and lakes.
Fishing
Derryounce is known locally as an angling destination, with brown and rainbow trout associated with the lake. A fishing permit may be required, so anglers should check current local rules before visiting.
Visiting information
The main trailhead is at the car park on the L7178 Bog Road, north of Portarlington. The official coordinates listed by Sport Ireland are 53.16496, -7.19093.
Dogs must be kept on a lead. Visitors should follow the coloured waymarkers, remain on established trails and avoid disturbing wildlife or wetland habitats.