Bord na Móna upgrades trail at Lough Boora

Bord na Móna is enhancing the visitor experience at Lough Boora Discovery Park in Co Offaly, with the upgrade of the trail network.

Visitors to the park will now be able to explore up to 4km of upgraded developed trails, created in cooperation with Offaly County Council through the National Just Transition Fund.

It says the upgrade provides more opportunities to enjoy the unique beauty and biodiversity of Lough Boora Discovery Park and enhances the accessibility of the trails for all users.

Since November 2023, a dedicated team has been overseeing an intensive maintenance programme which will continue throughout 2024, ensuring that the park remains in optimum condition.

Bord na Móna is also investing an additional €250,000 to improve the overall visitor experience, upgrading orientation and wayfinding, thematic experiences and visitor facilities.

Lough Boora is home to some of the most innovative land and environmental sculptures in Ireland, inspired by the rich natural and industrial legacy of the bog lands, a series of large-scale sculptures are now part of the park’s permanent collection.

Bord na Móna and Offaly County Council are working collaboratively on the maintenance and repair of sculptures in the park, with Creative Ireland funding a maintenance programme.

It says new services have been introduced, with Ballycommon Bake House providing café services and Mid-Ireland Adventure offering bike hire.

These services are available from Wednesday to Sunday during the peak season and at weekends during the off-season. The main car park is open from 8:00am to 6:00pm and is free of charge.

Work will also soon begin on the Velo Rail Project. This project includes a 4.1km loop along the existing Bord na Móna narrow gauge railway.

In line with these improvements Bord na Móna has also recruited a dedicated recreation team to work full-time on trails and other projects within the park.

Ger Breen, Head of Land & Habitats said, “These upgrades at Lough Boora Discovery Park represent our ongoing commitment to enhancing visitor experiences and promoting sustainable tourism. Through our collaboration with Offaly County Council, we are not only preserving the natural and cultural heritage of the area but also creating new opportunities for adventure and exploration. The dedication of our team and partners ensures that Lough Boora Discovery Park will continue to be a valued destination for all.”