A short looped walk above the Avoca river valley — and one of the best places in Ireland to see red kites soaring over the trees. The kites were reintroduced to Wicklow in 2007 after being extinct in Ireland for two centuries; the population now numbers over a hundred breeding pairs. 2.5 km, about an hour, moderate effort, with one good climb to a viewpoint over the Vale of Avoca.
Start point shown — click the marker to get directions. Zoom in to explore the area.
Start at Avoca village. The trailhead is signposted from the main square — follow signs for the Red Kite Loop. The path climbs steadily through Coillte forestry for about a kilometre before opening onto a forest track that loops back through the upper plantation. The viewpoint at the top of the climb is the prime kite-spotting spot — early morning and late afternoon are best. Allow an hour. The path is well-surfaced; standard walking shoes are fine.
A beautifully restored historic guesthouse on the Square in Tinahely — the Wicklow Way passes through the village. Double, twin and small-double rooms, all with private bathrooms. Self-service coded entry — arrive when it suits you.
A professionally-recorded version with a local Wicklow narrator launches in 2026. The full transcript below previews what walkers will hear.
A short looped walk above the Avoca river valley — and one of the best places in Ireland to see red kites soaring over the trees. The kites were reintroduced to Wicklow in 2007 after being extinct in Ireland for two centuries; the population now numbers over a hundred breeding pairs. 2.5 km, about an hour, moderate effort, with one good climb to a viewpoint over the Vale of Avoca.
Full audio tour with professional Irish narration will be added when this walk's content is finalised. The summary above is the working draft.