Best Hikes for Families in Ireland

Ireland, renowned for its green hills and stunning coastal landscapes, has recently witnessed a surge in the popularity of hiking as a family activity. 

Across the country, Ireland boasts an extensive network of hiking and walking trails, offering something for every member of the family. Whether you’re seeking leisurely strolls along idyllic beaches, encounters through charming forests, or breathtaking views from towering sea cliffs, Ireland’s diverse terrain offers a variety of options that promise to delight the entire family.

So, lace up your hiking boots and prepare to soak in the magnificent beauty and rich history that make Ireland an ideal place for family fun.

Since the walks we have suggested are for families, many of them aren’t too strenuous. However, it’s always best to be prepared for anything, so remember to bring water, wear suitable boots or shoes, and ensure your phone has a full charge before you set out.

Skip To:

• Glenveagh National Park, Co. Donegal
• Connemara National Park, Co. Galway
• Gortarowey, Co. Sligo
• Kilkee, Co. Clare
• Rathlin Island, Northern Ireland
• Crone Woods, Co. Wicklow
• Dingle Peninsula, Co. Kerry
• Killarney National Park, Co. Kerry
• Glengariff, Co. Cork
• Inishbofin Island, Co. Galway

Set within the remote Connemara National Park is the Diamond Hill’s lower loop route, which offers views of the breathtaking Galway coastline and the bogland beneath it. The well-maintained trail is accessible with gravel paths, steps and a boardwalk. The scenery is spectacular, but make sure to keep an eye out for Red Deer, otters, and the Connemara pony. Also, look to the sky to potentially spot meadow pipits, robins and wrens.

After the hike, the Connemara National Park Visitor Centre ensures an effortless adventure with the family, as it offers a cafe and other facilities. The visitor centre also provides a place to learn about the park’s history, formation, and  conservation and biodiversity efforts.

Visiting Clifden is a must-do to make the most of your time in Connemara. Clifden is a small, bustling town full of delicious seafood restaurants, cosy cafes, and lively pubs. Just outside the town is Sky Road, a viewing point of the Connemara coastline that you shouldn’t miss. Gazing out on the wild ocean while the sun sets will be a highlight of your visit to Connemara.

Distance: 3km/1.8 miles
Terrain: Gravel path with steps, boardwalk, old bog road
Difficulty: Moderate

Learn More On The Connemara National Park Website

On the Loop Head Peninsula in County Clare sits the seaside village of Kilkee. Meandering along the dramatic Kilkee Cliff walk that hugs the Atlantic Ocean; this there-and-back trail offers families an opportunity to soak in the panoramic views of crashing waves, sea stacks, and the vast expanse of the blue sea. It is ideal for a family of any age, with the beach within walking distance from the start of the path and cafes and ice cream parlours to grab snacks for the walk ahead.

After the walk up the cliff edge, enjoy a dip in the ocean to cool down in Kilkee’s Pollock Holes when the tide is right. Afterwards, you can venture into the village for dinner and enjoy a scenic stroll along the beachfront.

Take a drive down the Loop Head Peninsula and visit the lighthouse that dates back to 1854. Walking around the lighthouse, you’ll notice the E-I-R-E marked on the clifftop in white letters. These markings were used during World War 2 to signal pilots that they were entering neutral air space. You’ll notice a few of these markings along the Wild Atlantic Way.

Distance: 2 km/1 mile
Terrain: Gravel path
Difficulty: Moderate

Learn More About The Kilkee Cliff Walk

The Maulin Loop in Crone Woods, tucked away in County Wicklow, is a more challenging trail than others on this list, but the views will make it all worthwhile. You’ll be treated to scenes of Glencree Valley, Powerscourt Waterfall and the Great Sugar Loaf on your ascent. On a clear day, you may even be able to see as far as Dublin Bay. The trail is well-signposted and will lead you through peaceful forests on your way to the summit of Maulin Mountain.

If you’re looking for a livelier scene, Crone Woods is an hour’s drive from the centre of Dublin city. The capital city is full of food options and family activities to ensure your family never gets bored.

Distance: 6 km/3.7 miles
Terrain: Forest path
Difficulty: Strenuous

Learn More On The Visit Wicklow Website

Killarney National Park is home to serene woodlands, tranquil lakes, historic attractions and luscious meadows sprawled through a haven in County Kerry. There are many options for walking and hiking trails throughout the park, some more strenuous than others. Our pick for families is the looped Lakeside Walk. Follow the meandering path along the stunning lakes of Killarney. You can visit well-known attractions such as Muckross House and Muckross Abbey on your ramble. Muckross House, a 19th-century mansion, features furniture and decor from that period and meticulously maintained gardens. Muckross Abbey, on the other hand, dates back to the 15th century. Visiting the ruins of this monastic settlement is like stepping back in time due to its good state of preservation.

There’s no shortage of activities suitable for the entire family in Killarney National Park and surrounding areas. Hop into a jaunting car, rent a bike, or take a boat to explore the park in all its splendour. Pre or post-hike, pop into the Killarney National Park Visitor Centre at Killarney House & Gardens. The visitor centre offers insight into the flora and fauna of the park, as well as the biodiversity and conservation efforts. If you’re more of a history buff, you can also learn about the park’s past.

Distance: 5 km/3 miles
Terrain: Rough winding trail
Difficulty: Easy

Learn More On The Killarney National Park Website

Inishbofin Island, off the coast of County Galway, is accessible from the mainland by a ferry from Cleggan Pier. Steeped in history and surrounded by the stunning Atlantic Ocean, Inishbofin offers a tranquil escape from the commotion of everyday life. There are several trails for you to discover on the island, but we love the Middlequarter Loop. This route starts and ends at the pier, so you can begin your Inishbofin experience as soon as you hop off the ferry.

For such a small island, there are many opportunities for adventure on Inishbofin. If you’re a water lover, the beaches are pristine, and the clear water makes for excellent scuba diving. Not only that, but the sea cliffs along the Inishbofin coastline make for outstanding views of the wild Atlantic Ocean and the perfect spot to watch the sunset after a busy day of exploring.

Distance: 5 km/3 miles
Terrain: Minor roads, laneways, and bog roads
Difficulty: Moderate

Learn More On The Inishbofin Island Website

If you’re looking to explore Ireland’s West Coast with your family, we have the perfect trip for you.

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