Green Road Walk

This is a closed loop with a short shared access connector at each end, and the measured line covers the complete closed visitor traversal: about 3.6 km total, including the short shared access connector. Expect an easy grade, roughly 20 m of climb, and about 50 minutes of walking at a relaxed pace.

Start at the National Park Information Office near the Upper Lake, then follow the valley floor track and boardwalk down toward the Lower Lake. The loop traces the woodland and wetland edge of the Lower Lake before returning along the same connector to the office. The payoff is steady rather than sudden: open water framed by oak and birch, reflective wetland margins, and clear views toward the medieval round tower and St Kevin's Church.

• The green road itself is rougher and slightly steeper than the smoother valley floor access track.
• It is suitable for buggies, but it is not reliably safe for wheelchairs.
• Sturdy shoes are enough; boots are not required.

Use the Upper Lake Car Park and walk about 200 m to the Information Office to begin. Parking in the valley is limited, so arriving outside peak hours makes the whole visit simpler.

Dogs are welcome in the national park but must be kept on a lead for the full route.

The Green Road is the short, low-effort option for lake and monastic-site scenery. If you want the high panoramas over the valley, the White Route over the Spinc is a much longer, steep and strenuous day by comparison, and it asks for a different level of fitness and time.