Ireland Coast to Coast

Day 1 – Connemara National Park 

From the vibrant Galway City, we start our hiking journey in Connemara National Park. The famous Irish playwright and wit Oscar Wilde once described the region as a ‘savage beauty.’ It’s easy to see why as gentle green fields give way to the rugged west coast. It’s time to put our boots to test this afternoon on our hike into the sweeping hills of this rugged region. Characterised by its glittering quartzite rocks and boggy slopes, Connemara’s peaks offer stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and beyond. (L,D)

Hike details: 7km/ 4 miles | approx. 2-3 hrs.

Day 2 – Mweelrea, Connemara’s Highest Mountain

Mweelrea, the highest mountain in the west of Ireland, is best known for its breathtaking panoramic views. The distance is relatively short, but the terrain is challenging, and the summit is both hard-earned and well worth it. The south falls steeply to the waters of Killary Harbour, Ireland’s largest fjord. To the east stretches the sprawling Sheffry Hills and the mountain Ben Gorm, and to the west lie white sandy Atlantic shores. (B,L)

Hike details: 10-13km/ 6-8 miles | approx. 6 hrs.

Day 3 – Killarney National Park

Leaving behind the remoteness of the Connemara mountains, we head south to the Kingdom of Kerry. Discover the lush green valleys and wild hills of Killarney National Park, the very first national park established in Ireland. Away from the more popular regions of the park, our hike heads up into the quiet hills where a fantastic view of the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks Mountains spreads out before us – our first glimpse of tomorrow’s challenge. Keep your eye out for the park’s beloved wild deer and other animals. (B,L)

Hike details: 5km/3 miles | approx. 1-2 hrs.

Day 4 – Carrauntoohil, Ireland’s Highest Mountain

Carrauntoohil is Ireland’s highest peak and the jewel in the crown of our high points hiking tour. At 1,040m, its jagged summit presents an enticing challenge for today*. There are many paths to the summit: the cliff-sides of O’Shea’s Gully or the aptly named Devil’s Ladder are just two options. As we hike, we’ll take time to admire the wildflowers, spot raptors soaring on the mountain thermals, and keep a lookout for Irish mountain hares. This evening, be sure to check out some of the lively pubs and a live traditional Irish music session in Killarney town. (B,L)

Hike details: 14 km/ 8.5 miles | approx. 6-7 hrs.

*The walk this day includes some scrambling and ridge walks which are elements of red grade difficulty. There is an option to sit out and spend the day in Killarney as an alternative.

Day 5 – Glendalough Monastery & Wicklow National Park

From wild Kerry we head east to our next destination, Wicklow Mountains National Park. Full of emerald hills topped with purple heather and framed by lush forests, Wicklow is a special place. In the 6th century, the monk St Kevin sought solace and contemplation. He found it here in the idyllic surroundings of Glendalough’s lakes and valley. Today’s hike explores the quiet hills beyond Glendalough’s ancient monastery and follows the Glenealo River through a stunning glaciated valley. (B,L)

Hike details: 9km/4 miles | approx. 4 hrs.

Day 6 – Lugnaquilla, Wicklow’s Highest Mountain

The summit of Lugnaquilla Mountain is today’s goal. The highest peak in the Wicklow Mountains – one of Ireland’s six national parks – as well as in the province of Leinster, the majestic Lugnaquilla proudly overlooks the glittering green valley of Glenmalure. We follow an exceptionally scenic route to the top of Lugnaquilla via a cliff-fringed hanging valley to arrive at the plateau summit named after a 17th century local character.This evening, we’ll celebrate our high points accomplishments with dinner and if we are lucky, some local music. (B,L,D)

Hike details: 14-16 km/8-9 miles | approx. 6-7 hrs.

Day 7 – Dublin & The Wicklow Way

After an epic Irish hiking adventure covering an incredible variety of landscapes, some of Ireland’s bucket list hikes and tastiest pints of Guinness, it’s time to head to the capital where you can start your onwards journey or take a few days to explore – but not before you’ll get one last opportunity to stretch your legs on part of the country’s oldest and most venerable long distance trails, the Wicklow Way. (B)

Hike details: 5km/3 miles | approx.  1-2 hrs.

*This itinerary is subject to changes and improvements. All hiking times are approximate.