Raven Point Wood

Grade:  Easy

Distance:  6.8km / 4.3 miles

Waymarking: Blue

Trailhead:   Car Park

Sat Nav:  52.380 -6.367

Parking: Free Car Park at the entrance to the wood. Parking also available at nearby Colloton’s Gap

path in Raven Point Wood

Trail Description

The walk runs through sand dunes with woodlands mainly of pine trees.The Raven sand dunes have been forming since the 1600s from sea sand which is being blown onshore where it continues to be trapped and bound in place by plants. The fields adjoining the forest to the west are the North Slob lands, home to important wild goose populations in winter. People are asked to stay well back from the fields so as not to disturb these birds. The trees are mainly Corsican pines with areas of other species. Tree planting has happened since the 1930s to prevent coastal erosion and protect the North Slob lands. Beyond the southern end of the wood are more open areas with grasses and flowers.

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Don't Miss...

  • The stunning views of Wexford Harbour.
  • You may be lucky enough to see red squirrels, grey seals and other wildlife.
  • On winter evenings all the geese from the North Slob fly out at twilight to roost on sand banks in Wexford Harbour. Those staying late enough to watch this memorable sight will need torches to walk back to the car park.
  • Curracloe Beach has a Blue Flag.
  • Wexford Wildfowl Reserve near Ardcavan, Wexford. There is a visitor centre with observation tower and hides from which the wild geese can be seen from October to March.

Useful Trail Information

OSI Discovery Map Series 77

Grid Reference: T 111 267

Ascent: negligible

Walking time:  1hour 30 minutes (return)

Format: Linear with Loop at one end

Surface: 

Gates/Stiles: Yes – at trailhead

Start/Finish: Car Park

Equipment Recommended: No special equipment required

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Other Useful Information

Mobile Coverage: Generally Good

Picnic Area: 

Public Toilets: Nearby at White Gap, Curracloe Beach

Facilities:  Nearby at White Gap, Curracloe Beach

Dogs: Please keep your dog on a lead at all times to respect nature.
You must clean up after your dog if it fouls in a public place.

Raven Wood is a Nature Reserve owned by the
National Parks and Wildlife Service

Raven Point Wood Map

Other Walking Trails Nearby

Red Squirrel at Raven Point Wood

Getting Here

From Wexford Town follow the the R741 road over the bridge towards Castlebridge. In approximately 3.5 km, take a right turn signposted to Curracloe (R742). In Curracloe village, turn right at the Post Office. Follow this road for approximately 1 km until you come upon a right angle bend with a junction signposted Raven Nature Reserve. Turn right as signposted. Follow this road until you reach the carpark beside the entrance to the woods. (approximately 1km). 

There are special traffic arrangements in the summer season.

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