The Wexford Walking Festival in New Ross offers a practical yet invigorating chance to connect with County Wexford's natural landscape—and test your stride on diverse local trails. Starting from the heart of New Ross, walkers encounter routes ranging from gentle riverside strolls to more challenging upland paths, with distances typically between 8 to 16 kilometers. Expect moderate elevation gains—not enough to demand technical climbing skills, but enough to engage your legs and reward you with vivid views.

Paths cut through ancient woodlands, where tree limbs arch overhead like careful guardians. The River Barrow dares you to follow its wind, its currents nudging the pace forward along quiet banks and old quays. Along the way, fields open wide, offering sweeping views of low rolling hills—a landscape both fiercely present and patient underfoot.

The terrain shifts with the seasons: spring breathes new life with fresh greenery and migrating birds, while autumn cloaks the region in fiery golds and rust reds, the forest floor crunching underfoot. A waterproof jacket and sturdy boots are indispensable here, prepared for occasional rain and uneven ground.

This is a festival for every type of walker. You can plug into guided walks tailored to family groups or those keen on gentle adventures, or take on longer solo routes designed to stretch endurance. The festival's framework also encourages mindful walking—observing local flora and fauna, as well as engaging with the area's rich history, from medieval town walls to the quiet stories of rural settlements.

For optimal timing, mornings provide cooler air and softer light, while afternoons invite a slower pace and moments to pause, whether at a small café or to catch details of nature's busy work: insects darting between wildflowers, or herons stalking the river.

Before you head out, ensure your hydration pack is ready and your footwear broken in. Paths are primarily dirt and grass, with occasional stony ground and slight inclines. A walking stick might assist those who appreciate extra balance when the ground tilts or slippery leaves cover the trail.

The Wexford Walking Festival invites you to meet the landscape head-on—respectful of its demands, ready to absorb each step's sensory reward. It's a practical adventure, suited for eager beginners and seasoned hikers alike, unfolding one purposeful footstep at a time in the dynamic pulse of New Ross.