Kinnitty
- Co. Laois
- Listed in
Kinnitty
The picturesque village of Kinnitty nestles at the foot of Knocknamann on the western slopes of the Slieve Bloom Mountains. The very pretty village is centered around a lovely green with a stream canalled through it. The Pain brothers who re-designed Kinnitty Castle in 1811 designed the modern village of Kinnitty. As well as the Community Centre in the centre of the village, [originally the Old School House and Petty Sessions Court built in 1820, {now a community centre] the Kinnitty Trailhead Centre { located at the end of the laneway beside the Community Centre there is a convenience store, two churches, a cafe, two pubs, and bike hire facilities, a number of bed and breakfasts, glamping site, self catering and a Castle hotel.
Kinnitty is a fantastic hub for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. At the Kinnitty Trailhead Centre you can explore all the area has to offer.
Walking Trails
There is a wide variety of walking trails starting from the Kinnitty Trail Head on the Mountrath Road .
Looped Trails:
-
Kinnitty Castle Loop, Glinsk Castle, and Glenregan all begin at the walking Trailhead on the Mountrath road.
-
Eco Walks: Located nearby at Glenafelly and Knockbarron.
-
Long Distance: Access the Slieve Bloom Way directly from the Kinnitty trailhead.
Biking
Mountain Biking (MTB)
Kinnitty is one of two main starting points for the Slieve Bloom Mountain Bike Trails:
-
Kinnitty Village: Park in the village and follow signs through the GAA pitch to the trailhead.
-
Baunreagh: Located on the R440 heading towards Mountrath.
Road Biking
Kinnitty is a popular starting point for road cyclists.
-
-
Challenging Routes: Test yourself on the Gap of Glendine or The Cut.
-
Leisurely Routes: Plenty of quieter mountain roads for a shorter, easier ride.
-
Pit Stop: Stop by Peavoy’s Cafe in the village for fresh, homemade cakes.
-
Annual Events
- Slieve Bloom Walking Festival: Held every May bank holiday weekend starts from the Kinnitty Traihead Centre
- Slieve Bloom Mountain Biking Festival: Held in Spring Incorporates the country wide biking blitz.
- “Off The Bloom” Adventure Race: Takes place every August
Unique Feature
The Kinnitty Pyramid
Located at the rear of St. Finian’s Church, this 30-foot tall structure is a must-see.
-
History: A replica of the Pyramid of Cheops in Egypt, completed in 1834 after four years of construction.
-
Purpose: Built by Lt. Col. Richard Bernard as a burial chamber for five members of his family.

