The best hikes from bus stations around The Municipal District of Naas

Walking beside river Liffey

The Blessington Greenway links Blessington with the Palladian mansion at Russborough House. It's a walking trail of about 6 km (3.7 miles), which skirts the edge of Poulaphouca Reservoir and cuts through areas of woodland.

Blessington Lakes is officially known as Poulaphouca Reservoir, and it's only one lake. Construction of the dam began in 1937 and by the time it was completed, and the valley flooded, it became the largest man-made lake in Ireland. It supplies water to Dublin and the water is used to power a hydroelectric power plant. The lakeside trails are popular with walkers and cyclists and the lake is home to many water birds, including breeding pairs of the rare goosander.

Victoria Bridge in Celbridge was built in 1837, replacing an earlier structure that had been damaged by floods. It’s a five-arch limestone bridge that has carried traffic across the River Liffey for nearly two centuries. Today it remains the main crossing in the town and a local landmark marking the start of many cycling routes.

Blessington is a bustling market town set above Poulaphouca Reservoir, where the Wicklow Mountains meet the Kildare plains. Its broad main street is lined with cafés, pubs and shops. Just outside town lies Russborough House, a grand Palladian mansion with gardens, art collections, and walking trails, while the lakes themselves are popular for fishing, sailing, and quiet scenic walks.

Blessington is a town located in County Wicklow, situated about 29 kilometres southwest of Dublin. It is known for its scenic surroundings, including Blessington Lake, which is part of the River Liffey's reservoir system.

Nice views at the foot of the Wicklow Mountains.

Castletown Demesne, located in County Kildare, is a beautiful and historically significant estate that offers a rich experience for visitors. The estate surrounds Castletown House, Ireland's first and largest Palladian-style mansion, built in the 18th century. The Demesne is renowned for its meticulously designed parklands, influenced by the landscape architect Capability Brown. These grounds feature lush meadows, serene waterways, and carefully positioned architectural accents such as a classical temple and a gothic lodge, all designed to create a natural yet curated experience. Visitors can enjoy a stroll through the parklands, discovering various features including the Conolly Folly, an imposing obelisk, and the Wonderful Barn, an unusual corkscrew-shaped structure. The estate also includes restored pleasure grounds and an eighteenth-century farmyard, making it a delightful spot for outdoor activities and historical exploration. The Demesne has won several awards for its beauty and ecological management, including the Green Flag Award and the Pollinator Award.