Discover Ireland’s Best Walks: 15 Unmissable Walks Across the Emerald Isle

 

Ireland is a walker’s paradise. With its rolling green hills, dramatic cliffs, ancient ruins, and rugged coastlines, the Emerald Isle offers a stunning variety of landscapes to explore on foot.

From serene countryside paths to challenging mountain trails, each walk is steeped in natural beauty and rich history, promising an unforgettable experience.

Whether you’re an avid hiker, a casual stroller, or someone who just loves to explore new places, Ireland’s diverse walking routes cater to every kind of adventurer.

In this blog, we’ll take you on a journey through 15 of the best walks in Ireland, showcasing the unique charm and character of each trail. Lace up your boots, grab a raincoat (just in case), and get ready to be inspired.

 

**Note:** I am well aware I am mixing walks in both Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland. As the two countries are close, its possible to mix some of these walks if you wanted an extended itinerary to visit both countries.  When I say the best walks in Ireland, essentially I mean the Island of Ireland which includes both countries

 

 

15 Of Ireland’s Hidden Gems

 

1. Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk

Location: County Clare
Highlights: Stunning ocean views, dramatic cliffs, Aran Islands in the distance.
Best for: Lovers of iconic Irish landscapes and photography enthusiasts.

Arguably one of Ireland’s most famous landmarks, the Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk is a must for anyone visiting the west coast.

Stretching from Doolin to Liscannor, this 13-kilometer trail takes you along the edge of breathtaking sea cliffs that tower 700 feet above the Atlantic Ocean.

The ever-changing light and weather create an awe-inspiring backdrop, making every visit unique. Along the way, keep an eye out for puffins and other seabirds nesting along the cliffs.

 

 

2. The Wicklow Way

Location: County Wicklow
Highlights: Rolling hills, dense woodlands, Glendalough Monastic Site, picturesque villages.
Best for: Long-distance hikers and nature lovers seeking variety.

The Wicklow Way is one of Ireland’s oldest and most popular long-distance trails. Spanning 130 kilometers from Marlay Park in Dublin to Clonegal in County Carlow, this walk offers a mix of forest trails, mountain passes, and idyllic rural scenery.

Highlights include the glacial valley of Glendalough and its historic monastic ruins. Whether you tackle the entire route or just a section, the Wicklow Way never fails to impress.

 

 

3. Giants Causeway Cliff Walk

Location: County Antrim
Highlights: Basalt columns, coastal cliffs, Dunseverick Castle ruins.
Best for: Geological wonders and breathtaking coastal views.

Discover one of Ireland’s most iconic natural wonders on the Giant’s Causeway Cliff Walk. This 12-kilometer trail showcases the dramatic coastline of Northern Ireland, leading you to the famous hexagonal basalt columns that have inspired myths and legends.

Along the way, you’ll pass Dunseverick Castle and enjoy unparalleled views of the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a walk steeped in both beauty and folklore.

 

 

4. Croagh Patrick Pilgrim Path

Location: County Mayo
Highlights: Sacred pilgrimage route, panoramic views of Clew Bay and surrounding islands.
Best for: Those seeking a spiritual or challenging climb.

Croagh Patrick, Ireland’s holy mountain, attracts thousands of pilgrims and hikers each year. The ascent, though steep and rocky, is well worth the effort.

At the summit, you’re rewarded with sweeping views of Clew Bay’s patchwork of islands. Traditionally climbed on Reek Sunday in July, this walk offers a unique blend of physical challenge and spiritual significance.

 

 

5. Carrauntoohil (MacGillycuddy’s Reeks)

Location: County Kerry
Highlights: Ireland’s highest peak, rugged mountain landscapes, and sweeping views.
Best for: Experienced hikers looking for a demanding trek.

Standing at 1,038 meters, Carrauntoohil is Ireland’s tallest mountain and a bucket-list hike for outdoor enthusiasts. The climb is challenging, but the dramatic scenery of MacGillycuddy’s Reeks makes every step worthwhile.

The most popular route is the Devil’s Ladder, a steep and rocky ascent that rewards hikers with unparalleled views from the summit.

 

 

6. Howth Cliff Walk

Location: County Dublin
Highlights: Cliffside paths, Baily Lighthouse, Dublin Bay views.
Best for: A scenic yet accessible walk near the city.

Located just a short train ride from Dublin city center, the Howth Cliff Walk offers a perfect escape into nature.

This 6-kilometer loop takes you along rugged cliffs with spectacular views of Dublin Bay, Lambay Island, and the iconic Baily Lighthouse.

The charming fishing village of Howth, with its seafood restaurants and bustling harbor, is an added bonus.

 

 

7. The Burren Way

Location: County Clare
Highlights: Unique limestone landscapes, wildflowers, ancient tombs, and castles.
Best for: History buffs and lovers of Ireland’s unique geology.

The Burren Way is a 123-kilometer trail that traverses one of Ireland’s most distinctive landscapes.

The karst limestone terrain of the Burren is dotted with rare wildflowers, ancient dolmens, and medieval castles. This walk offers a fascinating glimpse into Ireland’s natural and cultural heritage.

 

 

8. The Glendalough Spinc Walk

Location: County Wicklow
Highlights: Glacial valley, upper and lower lakes, monastic ruins.
Best for: Moderate hikers who want incredible vistas and historical intrigue.

The Spinc Walk in Glendalough is a moderately challenging loop that offers some of the best views in Wicklow.

Starting at the Glendalough Visitor Centre, the trail ascends through woodlands to a boardwalk overlooking the glacial valley and its two pristine lakes. Along the way, you’ll encounter the remnants of an early medieval monastic settlement.

 

 

9. Slieve League Cliffs Walk

Location: County Donegal
Highlights: Some of Europe’s highest sea cliffs, dramatic coastal views.
Best for: Adventurous walkers and nature photographers.

The Slieve League Cliffs rise nearly 600 meters above the Atlantic Ocean, offering some of the most dramatic coastal scenery in Ireland.

The Bunglas Viewpoint marks the start of several walking routes, ranging from short strolls to longer hikes along the cliff edges. The raw, untamed beauty of Slieve League is truly unforgettable.

 

 

10. Dingle Way

Location: County Kerry
Highlights: Sandy beaches, Mount Brandon, quaint villages like Dingle Town.
Best for: Coastal walkers and foodies (amazing seafood along the way).

The Dingle Way is a 179-kilometer loop that showcases the best of the Dingle Peninsula. Highlights include golden beaches, rugged headlands, and the towering Mount Brandon.

The trail passes through charming villages where you can sample some of Ireland’s finest seafood and traditional music.

 

 

11. The Mourne Mountains

Location: County Down
Highlights: Sweeping mountain landscapes, Silent Valley Reservoir, Slieve Donard.
Best for: Mountain lovers and outdoor adventurers.

The Mourne Mountains are a hiker’s dream, with a network of trails suitable for all levels.

The ascent of Slieve Donard, Northern Ireland’s highest peak, offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and coastline. The area’s rugged beauty has inspired legends and literature, including C.S. Lewis’s Narnia.

 

 

12. Beara Way

Location: Counties Cork and Kerry
Highlights: Wild Atlantic Way views, colorful villages, ancient stone circles.
Best for: Off-the-beaten-path walkers and history lovers.

The Beara Way is a 206-kilometer loop that follows the rugged coastline of the Beara Peninsula.

This trail is a hidden gem, offering stunning views of the Atlantic, charming villages like Allihies and Eyeries, and fascinating archaeological sites. It’s perfect for those looking to escape the crowds.

 

 

13. The Aran Islands Loop Walk (Inis Mór)

Location: County Galway
Highlights: Dun Aonghasa fort, rugged coastal scenery, traditional Irish culture.
Best for: Those wanting to combine culture and scenic views.

The largest of the Aran Islands, Inis Mór, is home to the famous Dun Aonghasa, a prehistoric cliffside fort.

The loop walk takes you through traditional stone-walled fields, past turquoise waters, and along dramatic cliffs. It’s a step back in time to a simpler way of life.

 

 

14. The Gap of Dunloe Walk

Location: County Kerry
Highlights: Towering mountains, lush valleys, sparkling lakes.
Best for: Romantic strolls and relaxed nature immersion.

The Gap of Dunloe is a narrow mountain pass that offers a peaceful retreat into nature. The 11-kilometer walk winds through a picturesque valley dotted with glacial lakes and framed by rugged peaks.

Horse-drawn carts, or “jaunting cars,” add a touch of old-world charm to this enchanting route.

 

 

15. Killary Fjord Famine Walk

Location: County Galway
Highlights: Ireland’s only fjord, famine relief roads, tranquil surroundings.
Best for: History enthusiasts and those seeking serene coastal views.

The Killary Fjord Famine Walk follows a historic path along the shores of Ireland’s only fjord.

This 16-kilometer route is both beautiful and poignant, offering stunning views of the water while telling the story of Ireland’s famine past. It’s a quiet, reflective walk that leaves a lasting impression.

 

From towering sea cliffs to serene valleys, Ireland’s walking trails offer something for everyone. These 15 walks are just the beginning of what the Emerald Isle has to offer.

Whether you’re drawn to the rugged coastlines of Donegal, the spiritual heights of Croagh Patrick, or the tranquil beauty of the Gap of Dunloe, each trail promises a unique and unforgettable experience.

So pack your walking shoes, embrace the Irish weather, and immerse yourself in the natural wonders of this enchanting land.