What do you need to know about the Bohernabreena Reservoir walk?
The Bohernabreena Reservoir walk is a scenic trail in South Dublin with two main routes: a flat, easy 3km loop and a longer 8.5km circuit. Located in the Glenasmole Valley, it's dog-friendly (on-lead) but has no facilities like toilets or cafes. Parking is limited, so arriving early is recommended.
Understanding the Bohernabreena walking routes
Short answer: There are two main trails. You can take a short, easy 3km loop around the lower reservoir or a much longer 8.5km loop that covers both the upper and lower reservoirs.
The main appeal of the Bohernabreena walk is its flexibility. You don't have to commit to a huge hike to enjoy the area. The two distinct loops cater to different fitness levels and time constraints, but it's important to know which one you are starting.
The lower reservoir loop (the short walk)
The lower loop is a simple and pleasant walk. It's approximately 3km long and follows a paved path that circles the lower reservoir. The terrain is almost completely flat, making it ideal for families with young children, people with buggies, and anyone looking for a casual stroll rather than a strenuous hike. You'll walk along a tree-lined path with constant views across the water. This loop usually takes around 45 minutes to an hour to complete at a relaxed pace.
The full upper and lower loop (the long walk)
This is the more serious option. The full loop is about 8.5km and takes you around both reservoirs. While often described as easy, this can be misleading. The first half of the walk, particularly around the upper reservoir, is on a quiet country road that has a steady, long incline. This section is also very exposed to wind and rain, as there is little tree cover. It can be a bit of a slog if the weather turns bad. The full circuit takes between 2 and 2.5 hours.
A good rule of thumb for the longer walk is to go anti-clockwise. You'll get the more exposed, less scenic road section done first and finish the walk along the prettier, wooded path by the lower lake.
How do you get to the Bohernabreena Reservoir?
Short answer: The easiest way to get there is by car, using one of the two car parks. You can also take a Dublin Bus, but you'll have a 15 to 20-minute walk to reach the reservoir entrance.
Parking at the reservoir
There are two car parks managed by South Dublin County Council. The lower car park is the first one you'll meet and is the most popular. The upper car park is further up the road, closer to the start of the upper reservoir loop. Both are free but are quite small and fill up very quickly, especially on sunny weekends. If you plan to visit on a Saturday or Sunday, try to arrive before 10 a.m. to get a space.
Using public transport
Getting to Bohernabreena by bus is possible, but it requires some extra walking. The Dublin Bus route 49 stops at Oldbawn. From there, it's a walk of about 20-25 minutes up to the reservoir entrance. The 74 bus stops a little closer, but services can be less frequent. Always check the latest timetables before you travel.
Facilities and what to bring
Short answer: There are no facilities like toilets, cafes, or bins at the reservoir. You must bring everything you need with you and take all your rubbish home.
This is a key point for planning your visit. The beauty of the Glenasmole Valley is that it's largely undeveloped. This means you need to be self-sufficient. Pack water, some snacks, and a fully charged phone. Because the weather can change quickly in the Dublin Mountains, a rain jacket is always a good idea, even if it looks sunny when you leave. Good walking shoes are recommended for the longer 8.5km loop, as the road surface can be hard on your feet.
Can you swim or bring your dog?
Short answer: No, swimming is strictly forbidden in the reservoirs. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a lead at all times.
The reservoirs are part of Dublin's drinking water supply, which is the primary reason swimming is not allowed. The water is also deep and can be very cold with hidden currents, making it unsafe. For dog owners, Bohernabreena is a great place for a walk. However, the area is a designated Special Area of Conservation (SAC) to protect its wildlife, including birds like dippers and kingfishers that nest along the River Dodder. There is also livestock grazing in adjacent fields. Keeping your dog on a lead is a strict requirement to avoid disturbing the local fauna and farm animals.
A brief history of the reservoirs
Short answer: The two reservoirs were constructed between 1883 and 1887 to provide clean water for Dublin and to help control flooding from the River Dodder.
The project was a significant piece of Victorian engineering. The River Dodder was known for causing serious floods in Dublin, and damming it in the Glenasmole Valley was seen as a dual-purpose solution. The upper reservoir holds the clearer water for drinking, while the lower one holds compensation water for the mills that once operated downstream. You can still see the original stone valve house and other historic structures around the site.
| Pro | Con |
|---|---|
| Two distinct loops for different fitness levels | Car parks are small and fill up very quickly |
| Mostly flat and paved path on the lower loop | No toilets, bins, or cafe facilities on site |
| Located a short drive from Dublin city | The longer loop is very exposed to bad weather |
| Beautiful valley scenery and opportunities for wildlife spotting | Can be very crowded, especially on sunny weekends |
Common mistakes to avoid
- Underestimating the 8.5km loop: Many people assume the entire walk is flat. The upper section is a long, steady incline on a hard road surface. Here's what to do: wear comfortable, supportive shoes and check the weather forecast for wind and rain before you start.
- Forgetting to bring a bag for rubbish: There are no bins anywhere in the park. To keep the area clean, you must carry out everything you carry in. Pack a spare bag for your waste.
- Letting a dog off its lead: It's tempting, but the area is a protected habitat for wildlife and is surrounded by farmland. Always keep your dog on a lead to protect birds and sheep.
- Arriving at midday on a Sunday: You will almost certainly not find a parking space. If you are visiting at a peak time, aim to arrive before 10 a.m. or after 3 p.m. to avoid the biggest crowds.
Alternatives to the Bohernabreena walk
If Bohernabreena sounds too busy or isn't quite what you're looking for, there are other great options nearby.
- The Hell Fire Club: This walk is better if you want a shorter but steeper climb with a bit of spooky history and amazing panoramic views over Dublin city.
- Ticknock Forest: This is a better choice for people seeking more challenging forest trails, dedicated mountain biking tracks, and another viewpoint over the city and bay.
- Glendalough: If you're prepared to drive further into Wicklow, Glendalough is better for a full day out. It offers a huge variety of walks, from easy lakeside strolls to strenuous mountain hikes, all set in a historic monastic site.
Quick recap
- The walk has two main options: a flat 3km lower loop and a more challenging 8.5km full loop.
- There are no facilities on site, so bring your own water and snacks and take your rubbish home.
- Parking is very limited and fills up early on weekends.
- Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a lead at all times.
- Swimming is not allowed in the reservoirs.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Bohernabreena walk?
There are two main walking loops. The shorter walk around the lower reservoir is approximately 3km and takes about 45-60 minutes. The longer walk around both the upper and lower reservoirs is 8.5km and typically takes 2 to 2.5 hours to complete.
Can you swim in Bohernabreena Reservoir?
No, you cannot swim in the reservoir. It is prohibited because the water is part of the public drinking water supply for Dublin. It is also considered unsafe due to deep, cold water and potential currents.
Where do you park for Bohernabreena Reservoir?
There are two official car parks: a lower car park near the main entrance and an upper car park further along the road. Both are free to use but are relatively small and can be full by mid-morning on weekends and holidays.
Is Bohernabreena dog friendly?
Yes, the Bohernabreena Reservoir walk is dog friendly. However, dogs must be kept on a lead at all times. This rule is in place to protect the local wildlife within the Glenasmole Valley Special Area of Conservation and to avoid disturbing nearby livestock.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the bohernabreena reservoir walk take?
A: The time varies depending on which route you choose, from 45 minutes to around 2.5 hours. The shorter, flat 3km loop around the lower reservoir can be completed in about 45 minutes to an hour at a relaxed pace. For a more challenging hike, the full 8.5km circuit covering both reservoirs takes between 2 and 2.5 hours. This longer route includes a steady incline and is more exposed to the elements.
Is the walk suitable for kids and buggies?
A: Yes, the shorter lower loop is perfectly suitable for families with children and buggies. This 3km route follows a paved, almost completely flat path that circles the lower reservoir, making it an easy and safe option for a casual stroll. However, the longer 8.5km loop is more challenging due to a long, steady incline on a road surface and is less suitable for buggies or very young children.
Are there toilets at Bohernabreena Reservoir?
A: No, there are no toilets or any other facilities available at the reservoir. The area is largely undeveloped, so you will not find cafes, bins, or public restrooms on site. Visitors must be self-sufficient, bringing their own water and snacks for the journey. It is essential that you take all of your rubbish home with you to help keep the valley clean.
Is it safe to bring my dog to the reservoir?
A: Yes, dogs are welcome, but they must be kept on a lead at all times. While it is a great place for a dog walk, there are strict rules in place to protect local wildlife and farm animals. The area is a Special Area of Conservation and is home to nesting birds, while livestock often grazes in adjacent fields. Letting a dog off its lead can disturb this sensitive environment and is a common mistake to avoid.