12 Best Hikes in Ireland-Here’s a gudie
With its lush green landscapes, jagged coastlines, and charming villages, Ireland is a hiker’s paradise, as there are some of the best hikes in Ireland. The country’s moderate climate, thanks to the warm Gulf Stream, makes it an ideal destination for hiking almost all year round.
While Ireland might not boast extreme weather conditions, it certainly compensates with its fair share of rain. But every step is worthwhile because of the breathtaking natural beauty that awaits serious hikers.
(Read our recent blog Ireland’s 1st ever Irish Sign Language Café Opens in Dublin.)
Here is the list of best hikes in Ireland:
Ireland’s diverse landscapes and rich history make each of these hikes a unique and unforgettable experience. So grab your hiking boots, accept the unpredictability of the weather, and set out to explore the best hikes in Ireland.
1. Carrauntoohil Mountain/The MacGuillycuddy’s Reeks
Nestled in Kerry, this challenging 21km hike takes you on a scenic journey towards Killarney. The trail, rumoured to be frequented by fairies and magical beings, demands experience and stamina. The reward? A captivating landscape that leaves you enchanted. It is one of the best hikes in Ireland.
2. The Causeway Coast Way
This moderately challenging hike along coastal cliffs, possibly the most well-known in Ireland, reveals historical sites like Dunluce Castle and the famous Giant’s Causeway. Planning ahead with maps and checking for closures ensures you make the most of this renowned route.
3. The Diamond Hill Loop
For novice hikers seeking big summit views, the Diamond Hill Loop offers a forgiving yet impressive choice. Reaching the summit provides breathtaking views of Kylemore Abbey and the Twelve Bens mountain range.
4. Torc Mountain
Situated in Kerry, Torc Mountain offers a relatively easy trail with stunning views of Killarney National Park. The picturesque waterfalls and scenic landscapes make it a favourite, though an early start is recommended to beat the crowds.
5. The Gap of Dunloe
Starting and ending at Kate Kearney’s cottage in Killarney National Park, this strenuous 15-mile hike rewards you with an impressive mountainous landscape and picturesque lakes. The effort is well worth the breathtaking views.
6. The Dingle Way
A long-distance trail spanning 179km along the Dingle Peninsula, this hike showcases Ireland’s diverse landscapes. From coastal cliffs to mountainsides, the trail takes around eight days to complete, with villages along the way offering reprieves with home-cooked meals and spirits.
7. The Wicklow Way
This 131km long-distance trail begins in Dublin, showcasing Ireland’s varied landscapes, from rolling green hills to dramatic valleys and lakes. Take a day or two to explore Dublin’s sights before embarking on this gorgeous hike.
8. Muckross Abbey Loop
A 3.5km walk in Killarney National Park, the Muckross Abbey Loop is both scenic and easy. The 15th-century Abbey ruins are worth exploring, and this hike is perfect for hikers of all ages.
9. The Trail of the Bog of Frogs
This 12-kilometre hike, which starts in Howth, provides breathtaking views of Lambay Island and the Bay of Dublin. The trail, fairly easy, provides opportunities for wildlife sightings, including a variety of birds and seals along the coastline.
10. Hare’s Gap
Hare’s Gap is a short (3.4 km) but challenging hike that passes through the remarkable gap in the Mourne Mountains. The stunning boulder fields, glacial cliffs, and rolling mountains make it a memorable experience.
11. The Kerry Way
Covering 215km, the Kerry Way is regarded as one of Ireland’s most picturesque long-distance hikes. This hike, which takes more than a week to finish, offers rest and refreshment stops along the way in quaint villages and towns. The hike’s rolling green landscapes frame a rugged coastline.
12. The Divis Ridge Trail
The 6.8km Divis Ridge Trail is a reasonably easy hike that is perfect for those looking for a longer trek with breathtaking views. On this fascinating trail, take in expansive views of Belfast, as well as glimpses of Scotland and the Isle of Man.
