Clamp Hole Waterfall , County Laois

Welcome to Clamp Hole Waterfall, a stunning natural attraction located in Glenbarrow, Co. Laois, Ireland. This establishment is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a tranquil escape in the heart of Ireland.

To begin your adventure, start from the trailhead at Glenbarrow car park and follow the blue arrow onto a downhill track. This track also marks the Slieve Bloom Way, which is indicated by yellow arrows. After a short distance of 200m, you will reach the entrance to Glenbarrow Woods, marked by wooden railings. Enter the woods and continue along the path that runs parallel to the River Barrow on your right.

As you progress along the well-worn path, you will soon come across a large open area by the river. Here, you can admire the exposed and flat stone floor of the valley, offering a unique perspective of the surroundings. Follow the path upriver and be prepared to be captivated by the magnificent Glenbarrow Waterfall. The sight and sound of the cascading water will leave you in awe.

Keep following the path upriver, and after approximately 600m, you will reach a junction where a stream joins the River Barrow. Turn left here, and ascend some steep steps to continue your journey on the blue-arrow-marked forestry road. As you make your way uphill, the road will lead you to a 3-way junction. Take a right turn here to continue your exploration.

After a while, you will encounter another forestry road on your right. Directly opposite this road, you will find an entrance onto a downhill Bog Bridge that leads you into a beautiful woodland area. Follow the boardwalk downhill, surrounded by natural woodland, until you reach a forestry road with a barrier. Take a right turn here and follow the road for 200m to return to the trailhead at Glenbarrow car park.

To reach Clamp Hole Waterfall from the village of Rosenallis, simply follow the signpost for Glenbarrow L2018 on the R422 between Clonaslee and Mountmellick. After 2km, turn right at a junction, and then left at a crossroads after 2.5km. This will lead you to Glenbarrow Car Park (N 367 081).

Situated in the Slieve Bloom region, which connects the counties of Laois and Offaly, Clamp Hole Waterfall offers a unique blend of forests, blanket bog, and hidden valleys. Nature lovers and archaeology enthusiasts will find plenty to explore in this area. In 2007, a series of looped walks were developed, offering a mix of forest tracks, riverbanks, old roadways, and grassy trails. While some sections may be rough and rugged, they do not require great stamina or high altitude.

The Glenbarrow Looped Walks pass through Coillte forestry and the Slieve Bloom Nature Reserve, managed by The National Parks and Wildlife Service. For those interested in organized walks, the Slieve Bloom Walking Club offers guided walks every weekend, led by experienced and friendly walk leaders who are knowledgeable about the mountains. Customized walks can also be arranged with a personal guide for your party or group.

We kindly request that all visitors to this sensitive area adhere to the principles of Leave No Trace, ensuring the preservation and conservation of this natural wonder. Clamp Hole Waterfall is funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development, reflecting the commitment to promoting and preserving the beauty of this remarkable location.