10 Best Walks In Ireland

1. Inishowen Head Loop, County Donegal

Though somewhat remote, Inishowen Head Loop is easily one of the best walks in the county of Donegal. Also called “Little Ireland”, the Inishowen Peninsula boasts a rich history, excellent coastal views, and even somewhat challenging tracks. This 8-kilometer (4.97 mi) loop starts at Inishowen Head, right where you can find a World War II watchtower that stands frozen in time. The loop goes through bog roads, rough tracks, and minor roads, taking about two to three hours to complete. It also passes right by the exact location where St. Columba left Ireland on his way to Iona (Portkill). In addition, if you’re lucky and the weather is clear, you might even be able to catch a glimpse of the west of Scotland!

Inishowen Head Loop

Address: Inishowen Tourist Office, Railway Road, Buncrana, Donegal, Republic of Ireland

2. Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk, County Clare

The Cliffs of Moher are among Ireland’s most prized natural treasures. You can explore these fascinating formations by going on the Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk - a 13-km (8.1 mi) walk that stretches all the way from Doolin to Hags Head. Though the trail itself may seem relatively easy, as most of it is flat, the strong winds and unpredictable rain often makes this coastal walk a real challenge. Many prefer to start the walk at Hags Head, where one can find plenty of interesting rock formations, as well as a historical watchtower and a truly special view of the Atlantic Ocean! However, it is worth noting that you must exercise caution when walking the coastal path, as there are several high-risk areas along the trail.

Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk

Address: Lahinch, County Clare, Ireland

3. Causeway Coast Way, Country Antrim

Extending over 90 km (55.9 mi), the Causeway Coast Way is one of the longer walks that you can explore in Ireland. To complete the entire walk may take about two to three days, depending on your level of fitness. However, there really is no need to rush - simply go at your own pace and take in all the dream-like scenery. Cutting through verdant forests and mystical glens, the walk is sure to make you feel like you’re exploring a world straight out of a fairy tale. In fact, if you were a fan of the hit fantasy-drama series, “Game of Thrones”, you might even be able to recognize some of the spots here!

Causeway Coast Way

Address: 11 Glenstaughey Rd, Ballintoy, Ballycastle BT54 6NE, United Kingdom

Website: Causeway Coast Way

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

4. Hare's Gap, County Down

Often described as one of Ireland’s most dramatic mountain passes, Hare’s Gap is the perfect place to enjoy the most breathtaking landscapes. Best known for its rock formations that boast almost perfectly defined and sharp edges, the pass was naturally formed by the melting of the ice that once passed through it and over the Mournes range. Because it conveniently connects the north to the south, Hare’s Gap was also once used to smuggle contraband - like soap, spices, and coffee. Nowadays, however, the pass only serves as a popular tourist destination, as its central location makes it the perfect starting point for those hoping to explore the peaks, as well as other nearby routes.

Hare's Gap

Address: Castlewellan, Down District, Northern Ireland

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

5. The Famine Walk, County Roscommon

In addition to witnessing all the majestic landscapes and natural treasures that it has to offer, there is also much that you can learn about Ireland’s history by taking part in a walk. In particular, the Famine Walk is a thought-provoking walk that pays reverence to the thousands of immigrant families that walked from Strokestown Park to ships in Dublin in 1847. Launched in May 2019, the Famine Walk aims to bring attention to issues surrounding food security and to promote compassion towards those who are marginalized in modern society. The walk is a perfect opportunity to reflect, be thankful for your blessings, and think about how you can help those in need, as well.

The Famine Walk

Address: Vesnoy, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon, Ireland

6. The Slieve Bloom Way, County Offaly

If you’re looking to spend a couple of days with nature, you should definitely walk the Slieve Bloom Way. Measuring 84 km (52.2 mi), Slieve Bloom Way is a long-distance trail that stretches across the beautiful Slieve Bloom Mountains Environment Park, starting and ending at Glenbarrow, near the village of Rosenallis. The entire walk is typically completed in four days. However, there are a good number of shorter looped walks by each of the six key trailheads that can easily be completed within a couple of hours. Though somewhat long, the walk is actually quite leisurely, with plenty of gentle inclines. The park is also home to some of the few areas that allow wild camping, so you should definitely give it a try while you’re there!

The Slieve Bloom Way

Address: Slieve Bloom Mountains, Forelacka, Kinnitty, Co. Offaly, Ireland

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

7. The Carrauntoohil, County Kerry

If you’re looking for a bit of a challenge, you should try to take on the Carrauntoohil! At 1,038.6 meters (3407.5 ft) high, the Carrauntoohil is the highest mountain in Ireland! Many who go on the climb typically start at Cronin’s Yard, which is just a half-hour drive from the town of Killarney. Though there are many paths that you can follow, perhaps the most popular and straightforward of them would be the Devil’s Ladder. Don’t let this ominous name fool you, though - while certainly challenging, the climb is perfectly safe, easy to follow, and is ideal for those who may not be familiar with the area yet!

Carrauntoohil

Address: County Kerry, Ireland

8. Grand Canal Way, County Offaly

The Grand Canal Way was first opened in 1804 and was meant to connect Dublin westward through the River Shannen. Nowadays, it is a trail that stretches 117 kilometers (73 mi) and follows the canal from Lucan Bridge to Shannon Harbour. It is typically completed in five days. In addition to landscapes, the path cuts through plenty of towns and villages - many of which owe their formation to the canal - which provides excellent accommodation options along the way. You can also find locks and other canal features which tell of the technology at the time. In all, the Grand Canal Way is a great choice for anyone wanting not just to see the untouched natural beauty of Ireland, but also learn a bit more about its history.

Grand Canal Way

Address: Waymarked Ways of Ireland, Tullamore, Offaly, Republic of Ireland

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

9. Brandy Pad, County Down

Brandy Pad is another beautiful and historic route that you can travel in Ireland! Tucked away in the Mournes Mountains, Brandy Pad was also once used by smugglers in their attempts to evade coast guards. You can follow the smugglers’ route, and see the 35.4 km (22 mi) Mourne Wall, which is said to have been built by hand by smugglers! Of course, in addition to these fascinating stories, you’ll also be able to enjoy fantastic views of the Annalong valley and the Ben Crom reservoir from the peak of the mountains.

Brandy Pad

Address: County Down, Northern Ireland

10. Diamond Hill, County Galway (from USD 23.0)

1/5 best walks in ireland | diamond hill, county galway

2/5 diamond hill, county galway

3/5 diamond hill, county galway

4/5 diamond hill, county galway

5/5

Show all photos

Located within the sprawling Connemara National Park, this particular walking path is one of the most popular among hiking enthusiasts. The path starts and ends right at the park’s visitor center, and takes you through Sruffaunboy Nature Trail, right before branching off towards the peak of Diamond Hill. You can also opt to go on a self-guided day tour of the nature trail. However, there are plenty of signs scattered across the trail to guide you. When you reach the summit, you will be treated to unparalleled views of the mountains and all the neighboring wonders - the Twelve Bens can be seen towards the Northeast, while the beautiful Kylemore Abbey can be seen towards the north!

Full-day Connemara National Park Self-Guided Tour from Galway

Duration: 12 hours

Oops, this activity is currently unavailable. Check out these alternative activities in the same location.

from USD

23.0

Book Now

Exploring the Emerald Isle

Rich in culture and natural beauty, its no wonder that Ireland is liked to a precious jewel. On your next trip to this mystical island, get up close and discover all the treasures it has to offer by going on these exciting and highly recommended walks!