Bree Hill Trails
Bree Hill walking trails provide 25 km of mixed forest trails offering peace, tranquillity and beautiful views out across the countryside. A Coillte forest, it is noted for its aesthetic and recreational values. On a good day it is possible to see the spires of both Rowe St and Bride St Churches and also, if the weather is right you can pick out Tuskar Rock Lighthouse.
Bree Hill is a Coillte forest which is noted for its aesthetic and recreational value. The geology of the hill is Ordovician rhyolite, a silica-rich rock which was produced by a volcanic eruption roughly 400 million years ago. During this period the newly formed hill was probably a small island surrounded by a warm, tropical sea. Bree Hill features three looped walks, individually waymarked, which start at the trailhead at the car park of Bree Community Centre in the village of Bree. These routes provide almost 25 km of mixed forest trails, offering peace and tranquillity and beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
It is important to note that Bree Hill is a designated venue for mountain biking and although the mountain bike trails are not part of the walking routes, one needs to be aware that some mountain bike paths cross the walking trails at a few points and due care should be taken.
Getting Here
From Enniscorthy take the R772 towards Wexford. After 6km turn right towards Edermine. Turn left at the next T-junction. After 100m turn right and follow the road to the next T-junction. Turn left and continue 1km into Bree village. Look for Bree Community Centre on the left after the church. The trailhead and car park are here.
Distance: 10km
From Wexford: At the New Ross Road roundabout take the northbound exit. Take the next left onto the R730 and continue for 12km. Turn right and follow the road for another 1.9 kilometres. Turn right again and continue into Bree village. The community centre and village car park is on the right before the church.
Distance: 14.5km
These trails are located in Coillte owned forests.
Wexford Walking Trails clg appreciates the support and co-operation of Coillte under their Open Forest Policy.
Trail Grades
Trail grades give an indication of what to expect when out on a trail. The grade will give an idea of the level of fitness and ability required to use the trail.
Before attempting a trail, it is important to consider the grading to ensure it matches your ability and level of fitness.
Wexford Walking Trails are graded by Sport Ireland according to their criteria which is explained here.
Multi-Access
Flat smooth trails, suitable for all users including people with reduced mobility, wheelchair users, people with a vision impairment, using crutches, with a buggy, with small children, older people and so on. Normal outdoor footwear can be worn. Source : Sport Ireland
Moderate
These trails may have some climbs and may have an uneven surface where the going is rough underfoot with some obstacles such as protruding roots, rocks, etc. The routes are appropriate for people with a moderate level of fitness and some walking experience. Specific outdoor walking footwear and clothing is recommended. Source : Sport Ireland
Easy
Generally flat trails with a smooth surface and some gentle slopes or shallow steps. These trails are generally suitable for family groups including children and older people. Normal outdoor footwear can be worn. Source : Sport Ireland
Strenuous
These are physically demanding trails, which will typically have some sections with steep climbs for long periods and the going underfoot can be extremely rough including many obstacles. Suitable for users accustomed to walking on rough ground and with a high level of fitness. Specific outdoor walking footwear and clothing required. Source : Sport Ireland