It is no secret that Ireland is home to an abundance of breathtaking scenery. So, if you’re looking to get out in nature, there is no better way to do so than on foot.
From rugged coastal paths to scenic countryside strolls, we are sharing the best walks in Ireland that everyone should experience at least once in their life.
From north to south, east to west, the Emerald Isle boasts an abundance of breathtaking scenery that is unrivalled anywhere else in the world. Rolling green countryside, wild Atlantic cliffs, ancient castle ruins, what more can we say… it’s a true nature-lovers paradise.
So, if you’re looking to stretch your legs and make the most of the stunning surroundings, here are some of the best walks in Ireland you can’t miss.
10. Bray Head Loop Walk, Co. Kerry – a beautiful coastal walk
This coastal trail connects the seaside towns of Bray and Greystones and offers incredible views of the Irish Sea and the Wicklow Mountains.
At 7 km (4.3 miles) in total, this coastal walk should take around 2.5 hours to complete in full.
Address: Newcourt, Co. Wicklow, Ireland
9. Grand Canal Way, Co. Dublin – a city centre stroll
At the heart of Ireland’s capital city, Dublin, is the Grand Canal Way, one of the best walks in Ireland.
Stretching for an astounding 115 km (72 miles) from Dublin through Ireland’s midlands to Shannon Harbour, walks can complete the whole route over a period of five days or take a shorter scenic stroll along a short section of the way.
Address: Grand Canal Bridge, Grand Canal Dock, Dublin, Ireland
8. Lough Derg Way, Co. Limerick to Co. Tipperary – lots of history to be seen
This 68 km (42 miles) trail begins in Limerick City and ends in Dromineer, County Tipperary. Taking approximately three days to complete, there is plenty of stunning scenery to be seen along the way.
Things to look out for along the way include the ancient heritage town of Killaloe, which was once home of Brian Boru, the 11th-century High King of Ireland, and the historic St Flannan’s Cathedral.
Address: VJ73+8W Loughtea, County Tipperary, Ireland
7. Wicklow Way, Co. Wicklow – explore the Wicklow Mountains
This 131 km (84 miles) trail runs from Marlay Park in Dublin’s southern suburbs, through County Wicklow and across the beautiful Wicklow Mountains, before ending in Clonegal in County Carlow.
To complete the entire Wicklow Way, it is advised to leave at least a week. However, there are plenty of shorter walks along this scenic route you can do, depending on your ability and desire.
Address: Lugduff, Co. Wicklow, Ireland
6. The Famine Walk, Co. Mayo – a reminder of Ireland’s harrowing history
Killary Famine Walk in Connemara, County Mayo, is a reminder of the struggles incurred in Ireland during the various famines of the 19th-century. Part of the route here follows what would have been a famine ‘relief’ road, hence the name.
The natural surroundings of Killary Fjord and Connemara National Park are breathtaking. However, the route is punctuated with reminders of the famine, including roofless ruins and long-abandoned potato ridges.
Address: R335, Clashcame, Co. Mayo, Ireland
5. Causeway Coast Way, Co. Antrim – one of the best routes in Northern Ireland
The Causeway Coast Way on Ireland’s north coast in County Antrim is definitely one of the best walks in Ireland.
This 53 km (33 miles) trail follows the iconic Causeway Coast from Portstewart to Ballycastle and would take two days to complete in full. However, there are plenty of shorter walks along the way that allow you to take in the area’s most spectacular views.
Address: Bushmills BT57 8SU
4. Dingle Way, Co. Kerry – walk through the Kingdom of Kerry
This 162 km (101 miles) long circular route in the Kingdom of Kerry is one not to be missed by walking enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Taking eight days to complete in total and offering several shorter walks along the way, the entire route starts and finishes in the town of Tralee and passes through some of Kerry’s highlights, including the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks mountains, Slea Head, and Annascaul.
Address: Co. Kerry, Ireland
3. Beara-Breifne Way, Co. Cork – Ireland’s longest walking route
At 500 km (311 miles) in length, the Beara-Breifne Way is Ireland’s longest walking route and certainly not one for the fainthearted.
Linking the counties of Cork, Kerry, Limerick, Tipperary, Offaly, Galway, Roscommon, Sligo, Leitrim, and Cavan, this is a truly magical way to see some of the best bits of Ireland.
However, if you don’t fancy tackling the whole trek, there are plenty of shorter walks along the way that can be done in a couple of hours.
Address: Co. Cork, Ireland
2. Doolin Cliff Walk, Co. Clare – see the Cliffs of Moher
This magical cliff walk that takes you from the quaint Irish town of Doolin to the iconic Cliffs of Moher is a sight to behold. As you feel the wild Atlantic wind in your hair, you will feel connected to the world around you in a way you never have before.
At 8 km (5 miles) in length, walking the entire route should take around three hours along a manageable gravel path.
Address: Doonnagore, Doolin, Co. Clare, Ireland
1. The Kerry Way, Co. Kerry – a magical trail
The Kerry Way takes in the magic of Ireland’s Kingdom County, and as you make your way along this 214 km (132 miles) trail, you’ll feel like you’re walking through a slice of heaven on earth.
Typically completed in eight to ten days, there is so much to see along this iconic route, including medieval castles and early Christian monasteries, the Lakes of Killarney and the dramatic Atlantic coastline.
Address: Muckross, Killarney National Park, Co. Kerry, Ireland
