Did you know Ireland is the ultimate hiking destination? It is filled with thousands of kilometers of intersecting routes. By exploring the best hikes in Ireland, tourists get to live the most rewarding experiences of travel. 

The island’s rugged landscape offers a variety of breathtaking hikes filled with historical beauty. Hiking trails Ireland vary from magical soaring mountains to calm glacial valleys and even dramatic coastal cliffs. This guide will help both casual hikers and seasoned adventurers discover the best hikes in Ireland. 

Wicklow’s Finest Trails and Mountains

County Wicklow is called the ‘Garden of Ireland.’ The Wicklow Mountain National Park is perfect for anyone looking for forests, towering peaks, and lakeside walks. The following are the most popular hiking paths located in Wicklow:

Wicklow Way from Marley Park to Clonegal

As Ireland’s oldest waymarked trail, it extends over 130 km. Marley Park in Dublin is the starting point, and Clonegal in County Carlow is the endpoint. 

This long-distance hike features forest tracks, remote uplands and historical villages. Each section has its highlights, like Roundwood to Glenmalure or Enniskerry to Roundwood.

Djouce Mountain via Ballinastoe Woods

This one has a moderate degree of difficulty. It starts through a pine forest before offering breathtaking views overlooking Lough Tay. This lake is also called the Guinness Lake. Locals and tourists greatly value this hike.

Great Sugar Loaf Loop

At first, this 7km loop seems challenging, but do not worry. It is very suitable for families. During clear days, visitors can enjoy views all the way from Wicklow to Dublin Bay.

Lough Ouler

It is located high in the Wicklow Mountains. This heart-shaped hike is also known as one of the most stunning hiking spots in Ireland. It can be a little steep, but with the right equipment, it is easily manageable. 

Lugnaquilla

The highest peak in Leinster, Lugnaquilla, is as high as 925 meters. It boasts impressive alpine scenery that will certainly test your endurance. You must try the Glenmalure trail, which is quite popular.

Spinc & Glenealo Loop (Glendalough)

This 9km loop is guaranteed to be a favorite among hikers in Ireland. It has monastic ruins offering a touch of history intertwining with the natural beauty. Expect to see breathtaking waterfalls alongside views of beautiful valleys.

Bray to Greystones Cliff Walk

This coastal walk displays incredible views of the dramatic sea and the seaside towns. It is easily accessible to fitness enthusiasts of any level.

Kerry and Cork: Mountain Majesty & Coastal Wonders

Counties Kerry and Cork contain some of the best hikes in Ireland. This includes both the strenuous mountain climbs and inspiring walks along the coast. Let’s have a look at what the Southwest offers us.

Carrauntoohil

Ireland’s highest peak won’t be easy for most people. It is one of the more challenging mountains to climb in Ireland. You must climb 1,038m to enjoy unparalleled views from the summit. 

Mount Brandon

On Dingle Peninsula, Mount Brandon offers spiritual as well as scenic rewards to hikers. It’s an ancient pilgrimage path that stretches up to 10km. You can enjoy the wonderful history walk packed with amazing relics.

Skellig Michael

As a UNESCO World Heritage, Skelig requires boat transport to access it. Once you arrive, be prepared for a very steep climb of almost 600 steps. The efforts lead you to an incredibly rewarding site of 6th-century monastic ruins and Atlantic views. 

The Beara Way

The Beara Way’s long-distance loop spans over 200km, crossing through Kerry and Cork. It’s remote and has a very rugged landscape. Hikers looking for ideal Ireland backpacking trails can choose this for its wildlife and untouched beauty. 

The Dingle Way

For those preferring longer treks with stays in lodgings along the route, this is the best choice. This loop around Dingle Peninsula offers a lovely mixture of beaches along with pastoral scenery and coastal cliffs. 

Mizen Head Walk

Located in the southernmost point, this is one of the best hikes in Ireland for a short day walk. It offers cliff-top dramatic views along with a breathtaking bridge crossing. Perfect for hikers seeking a thrilling adventure. 

Dursey Island Loop

Another great spot for hiking Ireland is this 14km loop walk. It is only accessible through a cable car. However, the hiking experience is filled with tranquility and amazing views of the island. 

The West: Galway, Clare & Connemara Gems

Western Ireland is home to incredible and diverse hiking trails that include mountains and coastal regions. The views of Connemara, the Burren and many other areas display sights so gorgeous that one will never forget.

Diamond Hill Loop (Connemara)

This walking trail consists of a 7km loop starting from Connemara National Park. It offers spectacular views of the Twelve Bens and the Atlantic Ocean. It is well-kept, smooth, and fairly easy for walkers to enjoy.

Glencoaghan Horseshoe (Galway)

One of the toughest treks in Ireland will take you through several of The Twelve Bens. This challenging loop is only recommended for experienced hikers.

Cliffs of Moher Walk (Burren Way)

The walk stretches from Lahinch to Doolin alongside the Cliffs of Moher. Unlike the area near the tourist center, this section offers far better views as well as safety. Hence, it is great for tourists who want to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean peacefully. 

Northern Ireland & Border Counties

Counties close to Northern Ireland have astonishing hiking spots. There is something for everyone, from boardwalks to summits. Let’s discover some of them. 

Stairway to Heaven (Cuilcagh Boardwalk)

The social media’s favorite, “Stairway to Heaven,” features a wooden boardwalk that gradually leads to the summit of Cuilcagh Mountain. It is famous and ideal for almost all fitness levels.

Slieve Donard

Offering stunning views over the Mourne Mountains and the sea, Slieve Donard is the highest peak in Northern Ireland. It is almost 850m high and has a well-known trail starting from Newcastle.  

Slieve Foye (Louth)

This steep but doable hike gives hikers breathtaking views of Carlingford. The Irish Sea, as well as the Mourne Mountains, will also leave you mesmerised. 

Dublin Area Highlights

While exploring Dublin, its capital, you can find great options for hiking in Ireland. It is ideal for a quick dose of nature or even a short weekend stroll.

Ticknock Fairy Castle Loop

It’s a great start for hill walking as it is only 6km long. This scenic loop that goes around the Dublin mountains provides stunning glimpses of the city and bay.

Howth Cliff Walk (Bog of Frogs Loop)

This coastal hike remains one of the easiest and most famous ones. It is situated in Howth. Hikers get to enjoy free access to sea views, fresh air, and wildflowers. All of this is just 30 minutes from Dublin.

Killiney Hill Walk

Perfect for those seeking a pleasant sunset walk. This hike is steep and short, with sweeping glimpses of Dublin Bay.

Other Best Hikes In Ireland 

Beyond the most well-known destinations, Ireland has some stunning and less frequented hiking trails, too. These locations are ideal for peaceful and picturesque trekking in Ireland.

Queen Maeve Trail (Sligo)

This 5-kilometer trail goes up the Knocknarea to reach Queen Maeve’s cairn. While it is steep, it can still be managed with proper gear. It has wonderful views of Sligo that hikers can enjoy along the way.

Errigal Mountain (Donegal)

The tallest mountain in Donegal, Errigal, offers picturesque but difficult routes. It also features a conical shape, which, alongside its pinkish hues at sunset, adds to its beauty.

Conclusion

Our list is your guide to the best hikes in Ireland. From the mountain ranges in Wicklow to the coastal paths in Kerry and the alpine circuits in Galway. These hiking routes in Ireland offer breathtaking sceneries, history, culture and a good test of stamina. 

Ireland has something to offer for every type of Hiker.  So put on those boots, grab a map or download the AllTrails Ireland app to tick these epic trails off your bucket list.

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