Dunanore / Borodale
Overview
Welcome to Donanore or Borodale as it is also known, it is a small mixed woodland with a riverside walk along a short section of the Boro River and a viewing point of the swirl pool (known locally as “Soldier’s Hole”).
The wood has a mixture of oak, beech and pine, some of which remain from the former Beatty estate of Borodale House.
Located immediately to the northeast of the car park is a 12th century Anglo-Norman fort in a motte and bailey formation.
Dunanore most likely translates as the ‘fort (dun) on the brink/cliff edge (ochair)’, although another suggestion relates to the legend of buried gold by a member of a family of chieftains once prominent in County Wexford in the 13th century – ‘fort (dun) of the gold (oir)’.
From Enniscorthy: Dunanore / Borodale is just 4.4km from Enniscorthy town centre. In Enniscorthy town, at the roundabout below Enniscorthy Castle, take the exit for the R744 signposted New Ross/Clonroche and continue for approximately 2km. Turn left onto the L2045 (signposted Bree/Ballyhoge) and continue for 2.4km. The trailhead car park is on the left after crossing the River Boro bridge.
From Wexford: Follow the N11 towards Oilgate. At the roundabout after Oilgate village, take the exit R772 toward Enniscorthy town. After 1.8km, turn left (signposted Edenvale/Bree) and follow the road until you come to a T-junction. Turn right. Continue for approximately 2km. The trailhead car park is on the right.
Things to do
Dunanre / Borodale is a small site but steeped in history, there is a short way marked linier route that takes you from the car park through the woodland and down to the river where there is a board walk that brings you to the viewing area and the ‘Solidier’s Hole’ pool.
The ‘ Borodale Trail’ – 700 metres – red markers – moderate – 20 minutes (there and back)
As you walk along the board walk you are walking below the motte and bailey above you.
Please note it is not safe to swim in this location.