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    Best Hikes in Ireland

    You’re familiar with Ireland’s friendly and outgoing hospitality but you might not be as familiar with the best hikes in Ireland.

    Read on for an insider’s guide to the top hiking and walking routes in Ireland.

    By Dawn Rainbolt, Marketing Executive
    More by Dawn

    Our Local's Guide

    Hiking is an immersive way to get outdoors, to slow down, to breathe the fresh air deeply and to become part of the natural world while exploring a new place.

    We make it easy for you to choose where to hike. See below for local recommendations of the best hikes in Ireland. Each of our hikes is categorised into one of Ireland’s 4 historical regions:

    Ulster (north)
    Connacht (west)
    Munster (south)
    Leinster (east)

    Causeway Coastal Way - Northern Ireland

    Causeway Coastal Route

    Distance:

    33 miles/52 km

    Duration:

    4 days

    Start Point:

    Portstewart, or Ballycastle if you do it backwards

    Best For:

    Mystical landscapes that inspire TV series, Game of Thrones

    Explore sections of the Causeway Coastal Way and other best hikes in Ireland on our exciting Causeway Coastal Route & Donegal Hiking Trip. From the world-renowned Giant’s Causeway to the clifftop castle of Dunluce, from the lovely Ballintoy Harbour, better known as Lordsport on the Iron Isles – as seen on HBO’s Game of Thrones – to the Old Bushmills Distillery, this path that follows the rugged coastline of Northern Ireland is full of cultural, historical, natural, and even imaginary wonders – and hands-down one of the best hikes in Ireland. Visit the imagined seven kingdoms of Westeros (or at least find their filming locations) and hike through the mystical rolling countryside that inspired CS Lewis to create the Chronicles of Narnia – be sure to keep an eye out for magical creatures!

    Nearby – Head to the beachside Harry’s Shack, where you can expect a straightforward menu of simple pleasures along a stretch of sand on the Derry Coastline in Northern Ireland. When you’re passing Bushmills, stop over at the lovely Tartine at Distillers Arms, a charming melange of French and Irish cuisine. 

    Get more details on the route here

    Slieve Donard in the Mourne Mountains

    Mourne Wall, Mourne Mountains

    Distance:

    5.5 miles/9 km

    Duration:

    5 hours

    Start Point:

    Car park in Donard Park

    Best For:

    Explore remote mountain summits, bogs, and the Mourne Wall

    As the highest peak in the Mourne Mountains, from the summit of Slieve Donard you can see the huge swathes of Ulster, from Donegal down towards Wicklow – and even over to Scotland on a clear day! Cutting through the hauntingly beautiful Mourne Mountains is the 35km-long Mourne Wall, an enormous undertaking once built to fence off the Silent Valley Reservoir, though it does little more than enclose the remote summits and vast valleys of the Mourne Mountains. As you hike up the remote slopes of Slieve Donard, feel the enduring presence of Mother Nature in every step you take. 

    Travelling as a family? Check out our Northern Ireland family adventure to the Mourne Mountains, Giant’s Causeway and more! Or hike the Mourne Mountains on our self drive, Belfast, Giant’s Causeway & Donegal.

    For simple, local cuisine, try the Maghera Inn, set amongst the backdrop of the Mourne Mountains. Or if you want something more urban, drive back to Newcastle to the chic menu of the Vanilla Restaurant. Craving simplicity? Check out Great Jones Craft & Kitchen for no-nonsense dishes.

    Get more details on the route here

    The Pilgrim's Path at Slieve League

    Slieve League cliffs

    Distance:

    3.5 miles/5.5 km out and back

    Duration:

    2.5 hours

    Start Point:

    Along route R251, 1 mile from Dunlewy village

    Best For:

    Hike in Nat Geo’s coolest place on earth

    At 609m (1,998feet), the Slieve League cliffs in Co. Donegal are three times higher than the Cliffs of Moher – though they are still far off the beaten path. Take the ancient Pilgrim’s Path up the mountain to the old oratory ruins. If the weather is good, walk along the Old Man’s Track, a narrow path that overlooks the steep cliffs. From the cliff’s edge, enjoy an expansive view of the thundering Atlantic. Discover old ruins, rocky inlets and secretive strands tucked along the route as you walk along these impressive cliffs – certainly one of the best hikes in Ireland! Then, drive around to the Bunglass Viewpoint for the classic panorama of the impressive cliffs. 

    Join our Causeway Coastal Route & Donegal Hiking trip to hike the incredible Slieve League cliffs. 

    Head back to Donegal town to the hip and contemporary Quay West, an award-winning restaurant with stunning views of Donegal Bay for dinner, creative cocktails and local craft beers. If you’re staying at the local Castle Murray House, be sure to try the delicious and creative seafood menu. Donegal Castle is worth checking out to learn about the history of the region. 

    Get more details on the route here

    Mt Errigal in Glenveagh National Park

    Mt Errigal Glenveah - 20 best hikes in Ireland

    Distance:

    5 miles/8 km

    Duration:

    4 hours

    Start Point:

    Car park above Teelin village

    Best For:

    Walk along the edge of some of Europe’s highest cliffs

    At 751 metres, Mt Errigal is the highest mountain in County Donegal, National Geographic Traveller’s pick for #1 on the 2017 Cool List. Mt Errigal and the surrounding Derryveagh Mountains dominate Donegal’s landscape. Part of the desolate but beautiful landscape of Glenveagh National Park, Mt Errigal offers stunning views over the barren landscape of northern Donegal. Hike Ireland’s rugged bogland in this nearly-forgotten corner of Ireland far off the beaten path, and completely worth the views from the summit! From here, take the time to visit the vast moors, romantic castle and quiet lake shores of Glenveagh National Park.

    Hike in Ireland’s Glenveagh National Park and Co Donegal on our Causeway Coastal Route & Donegal Hiking Trip.

    Have a cup of tea with local treats and pastries in the beautiful Glenveagh Castle Tea Rooms before strolling through the lovely castle gardens and along Lough Veagh.

    Get more details on the route here

    Croagh Patrick

    View from Croagh Patrick

    Distance:

    4.5 miles/7 km

    Duration:

    5 hours

    Start Point:

    5 miles from Westport on route R335

    Best For:

    Climb Ireland’s holiest mountain

    Known locally as ‘The Reek,’ Croagh Patrick has been a pilgrimage route since ancient times. This impressive mountain overlooks the town of Westport, Clew Bay and the hundreds of islands populating the bay. It is famous for its saintly connection – St Patrick is said to have fasted on the summit for 40 days, and there is a shrine dedicated to him at the summit. Considered Ireland’s Holy Mountain, it is still climbed by thousands of pilgrims on the last Sunday in July – some of whom walk up the mountain barefoot! Hike Ireland’s holy mountain on our Hiking the Mountains of Connemara & Mayo

    Please keep in mind that the Pilgrim’s Path is highly eroded, not only posing a danger to you but also the mountain, its ecosystem and the future of the path. Instead, best to use one of the other paths up the mountain, perhaps the west path to the ridge. 

    Relax at the Tavern Bar & Restaurant at the foot of the holy mountain after taking in one of the best hikes in Ireland. Full of pilgrims set to climb Croagh Patrick, the menu is as varied as it is delicious – local speciality is seafood from Clew Bay. 

    Achill Head

    Achill Island - 20 best hikes in Ireland

    Distance:

    9 miles/14.3 km

    Duration:

    7 hours

    Start Point:

    Car park of Keem Strand

    Best For:

    Stand at the edge of the Atlantic on Ireland’s highest cliffs

    A hike out around Achill Head, located on the western tip of Achill Island, takes you along some of Europe’s highest sea cliffs, but this strenuous walk is not for the faint hearted and should be approached with caution. While hiking along the highest cliffs in Ireland at 688m or 2,257 ft, you’ll explore old signal towers, follow steep headlands, and keep an eye out for peregrine falcons. You’ll walk along headlands doused in other-worldly mist – and get stunning views with a distant sense of being on the edge of the world. 

    While not currently on any of our scheduled trips, request a tailor made trip to explore Achill Head, one of the best hikes in Ireland.

    Dine at lovely, award-winning restaurant, The Bervie, while overlooking the Minaun cliffs. Traditional cooking with a creative twist, meals use local and organic ingredients.

    Get more details on the route here

    Carrowtiege – The Children of Lir Loop

    Distance:

    6.2 miles/10 km

    Duration:

    2.5 hours

    Start Point:

    Car park at the Seanscoil in Carrowtiege

    Best For:

    Explore one of Ireland’s wildest places

    Head deep into the wilds of the west coast to hike through the tangled and desolate wilderness of North Mayo – the perfect place to learn about Ireland’s rich tales and folklore of old while following one of the best hikes in Ireland. One such Irish legend is that of the Children of Lir: the four children of the sea god Lir who were turned into swans for 900 years by their jealous step-mother. The hike at Carrowtiege features in the legend – the Children were exiled in the form of swans for 300 years on the Sea of Moyle. The hike is flat and approachable, though the incredible views will give you a sense of the might of the Atlantic that you get nowhere else on earth. Keep an eye out for the Children of Lir sculpture that represents those who have emigrated from northern Mayo, much like the legendary Children of Lir.

    While not currently on any of our scheduled trips, request a tailor made trip to hike in Carrowtiege.

    As this part of Mayo has some of Ireland’s wildest regions, the closest food option is Stella Maris in Ballycastle, one of the most popular restaurants on the West Coast and the very picture of serenity.

    Get more details on the route here

    Mám Éan

    Mam Ean hike in Mayo

    Distance:

    10 miles/16.5 km

    Duration:

    5 hours

    Start Point:

    Keene’s Pub in Maam to Lough Inagh

    Best For:

    Follow in St Patrick’s footsteps

    Follow in the footsteps of pilgrims of the past as Mám Éan, or ‘the Pass of the Birds’ is an ancient pilgrim’s path through the mountains. Part of the Western Way, Mám Éan is a sacred spot revered by locals for its associations with the legends of St Patrick as well as the pre-Christain Celtic harvest festival of Lughnasa. There’s a shrine to Ireland’s patron saint, and along the way, the stations of the cross dot the climb. Walk along one of the best hikes in Ireland, the beautiful pass of Mám Éan on our Mountains of Connemara and Mayo Hiking trip.

    The simple country elegance and seasonal menu of Lough Inagh Lodge offers some of the best cuisine in Connemara – a great post-hike eatery.

    Get more details on the route here

    The Bangor Trail

    Distance:

    18 miles/29 km

    Duration:

    10 hours

    Start Point:

    Newport or Brogan Carroll bothy at Letterkeen

    Best For:

    Hike through Ireland’s loneliest and only roadless hills

    Mayo boasts, without argument, some of Ireland’s wildest and remotest spots. There is perhaps no place wilder or more remote than this challenging 29km stretch across the rugged Erris Peninsula through the Nephin Beg mountain range. In fact, the Nephin Beg is the only big range of hills that have remained roadless. It was originally used to drive cattle from Mayo’s desolate northern coast to the market at Newport. The Bangor Trail, argued by some to be the loneliest place in Ireland, is an opportunity to escape from civilisation, de-connect from technology and take a break from everything in the backcountry of Ireland.

    While not currently on any of our scheduled trips, request a tailor made trip to hike one of the best hikes in Ireland, the Bangor Trail.

    This is possibly the wildest and most remote part of Ireland, so options for food and be quite far away. Be sure to bring a lovely picnic to eat in the wilderness! In the evening, drive down the coast to Westport to treat yourself at La Fougère in the fabulous Knockranny House Hotel. In the sophisticated dining hall, enjoy fine, modern cuisine locally cultivated and with perfectly paired wine as the sun sets.

    Get more details on the route here

    Inishbofin Loop

    Inishbofin Island

    Distance:

    Respectively: 8 km/8 km/5 km (5 mi/5 mi/3 mi)

    Duration:

    2.5/2.5/2 hours

    Start Point:

    Inishbofin Pier

    Best For:

    Explore Cromwell’s barracks, other historic ruins and watch for seals

    Off the coast of northern Co. Galway in the Connemara region, the tiny island of Inishbofin is full of hidden coves, rocky caves, sublime beaches and crumbling castle ruins. Inishbofin holds a fascinating place in history due to its strategic importance, from Pirate Queen Grace O’Malley, who once ruled the Galway Bay, to Oliver Cromwell. There are a few looped walks on the island, short enough that they can be combined if desired: the Westquarter loop, which allows for seal and dolphin-spotting as well as time exploring promontory Iron Age forts; the Cloonamore Loop which takes you through lovely green road and to ancient an 14th century church; or the Middlequarter Loop, offering panoramic views of surrounding islands and takes in Iron and Bronze Age sites. Afterwards, head to Inishbofin Pier to partake in a make-your-own pottery class. 

    While not currently on any of our scheduled trips, request a tailor made trip to hike on Inishbofin.

    Enjoy a seafront breeze, an open fire, sustainably-caught seafood, and a wide selection of beer, wine and spirits at the Days Bar on Inishbofin after a thrilling day explore one of Ireland’s best hikes. 

    Get more details on the route here

    Yeats Country

    Sligo Ben Bulbin - 20 best hikes in Ireland

    Distance:

    11 miles/18 km

    Duration:

    7 hours

    Start Point:

    Luke’s Bridge near Mullaghnaneane

    Best For:

    Great views overlooking ‘Yeats Country’

    Hike Ben Bulben, sister mountain Knocknarea and other peaks of Sligo on our Intro to Hiking & Sea Kayaking Adventure in Sligo. Towering over Sligo town, Ben Bulben and its sister peaks are visible from all over Sligo. This ‘table mountain’ is deep within ‘Yeats Country’ as the landscape was highly inspirational to the Irish poet, WB Yeats. This challenging walk takes in three peaks: Ben Bulben, Ben Wiskin & King’s Mountain, known for their natural and mythological richness. One legend tells of a magical ‘Fairy Door’ on Ben Bulbin, which brings good weather when opened, and another legend tells of the birth of Oisin, son of the giant Finn McCool and a druid-turned-deer, born and raised on the wild slopes of Ben Bulben.

    If you prefer a bit more independence, check out our Self Drive – Ireland’s Surf Coast to Mayo, where you’ll hike around Sligo’s Ben Bulben, Knocknarea and more in this lesser-visited region of Ireland.

    For breakfast or brunch, take a detour to the village of Strandhill for Shell’s Cafe, a local treasure, where you’ll find a creative blend of Irish cuisine with a modern twist. For dinner, go to Hargadon Bros in downtown Sligo – on the surface, a cosy Irish pub with live music – but underneath, a gastropub with some of the best fine dining Sligo has to offer! Both are part of the Sligo Food Trail, a group of top-notch eateries in Co Sligo.

    Get more details on the route here

    Carrauntoohil

    Carrauntoohil Kerry - 20 best hikes in Ireland

    Distance:

    8.7 miles/14 km

    Duration:

    7 hours

    Start Point:

    Lisleibane or Cronin’s Yard

    Best For:

    Stand at the summit of Ireland’s tallest mountain

    The highest peak in Ireland, Carrauntouhil well deserves its place on this top 20 list. It’s a challenge of a hike, but well worth it, for not only is the views from the summit some of the best (and highest!) in Ireland, but the trail around mountain itself will rival the Alps or the Pyrenees in beauty. Depending on the weather conditions, there are a few paths to the summit: Devil’s Ladder, O’Shea’s Gully, or the Caher Route. Hike Carrauntouhil and more of the best of Kerry’s mountains on our Hiking the Ring of Kerry Mountains. 

    Please keep in mind that this is Ireland’s highest mountain, and if you’re not an experienced mountain hiker, please do not attempt Carrauntouhil without a guide.

    You won’t find better than in Kenmare, Ireland’s gastronomic capital. One option is the Lime Tree, a chic eatery housed in a historic building featuring farm-fresh meat and just-caught fish. For a different option, try the Horseshoe Restaurant & Pub for a delicious blend of tasty cuisine and comfortable refinement.

    Get more details on the route here

    Mount Brandon

    Mt Brandon Dingle

    Distance:

    5.5 miles/9 km

    Duration:

    5 hours

    Start Point:

    Car park at the Faha Grotto

    Best For:

    Panoramic Atlantic views associated Christian and Irish mythology

    Located at the heart of the Dingle Peninsula, Mt Brandon is a sacred mountain that supposedly takes its name from St. Brendan the Navigator. St Brendan was thought to have spent 40 days on the mountain preparing for his voyage to America (or the ‘Promised Land’), which he supposedly saw from the summit during his climb. You won’t see America, but you will get beautiful views over southwest Ireland! Mt Brandon is also steeped in Irish mythology, getting its name from the pagan deity Bran. Hike Mount Brandon and more on our Hiking the Ring of Kerry Mountains trip. Or, hike the saddle of Mt Brandon on our point-to-point Hiking the Dingle Way trip. 

    This is another route not to be attempted without a guide unless an experienced mountain hiker. 

    After an exciting day on the Dingle Peninsula, head into Dingle town to the quirky restaurant, Out of the Blue, for delicious catch-of-the-day seafood dishes.

    Get more details on the route here

    Torc Mountain

    Torc Waterfall, Killarney - 20 best hikes in Ireland

    Distance:

    4.6 miles/7.5 km

    Duration:

    2.5 hours

    Start Point:

    Torc Waterfall car park

    Best For:

     Listen to the water cascading down Torc Waterfall

    Torc Mountain and Torc Waterfall comprise a lovely forest path within Killarney National Park, which offers stunning views that overlook the beloved Killarney Lakes, the Macgillycuddy Reeks, and Muckross House. Sweeping you past the ever-beautiful Torc Waterfall, you’ll continue on up the mountain through quiet, moss-covered forests and past rushing streams. Part of the Kerry Way, Torc Mountain path is dotted with Irish mythology. In Irish, torc means ‘boar.’ The mountain’s name therefore comes from a magical boar that was killed by Irish hero, Finn McCool – the very same who is credited with creating the Giant’s Causeway!

    Explore Torc Waterfall, Torc Mountain and Killarney National Park with us on our Hiking the Ring of Kerry Mountains trip. 

    Eat at award-winning fine-dining Rozzers restaurant at Killeen House back in Killarney. Be sure to stroll around town to listen to traditional Irish music in the evenings!

    Get more details on the route here

    The Saint’s Road on the Dingle Peninsula

    Ventry beach Dingle Peninsula

    Distance:

    11 miles/17.7 km

    Duration:

    5.5-6 hours

    Start Point:

    Ceann Tra/Ventry

    Best For:

    Visit ancient beehive huts along an ancient pilgrim’s trek

    Between sea and mountain, the Saint’s Road is an easy hiking route following an ancient pilgrim path. The Saint’s Road is littered with beehive huts – small rounded stone structures unique to Ireland and the ancient Celtic peoples who once lived here (other famous examples are found on Skellig Michael). The route takes you from the beach at Ceann Trá (also called Ventry Beach) through the remarkable Dingle Peninsula until it reaches the foot of the famous Mount Brandon (see above).

    Hike the Saint’s Road on Hiking the Dingle Way.

    Pop over to Dingle town for a bit of local Irish music and dinner at the Global Village Restaurant, a melange of classic traditions with a modern touch.

    Get more details on the route here

    Gap of Dunloe

    Gap of Dunloe Killarney Kerry

    Distance:

    6.8 miles/11 km

    Duration:

    4 hours

    Start Point:

    Kate Kearney’s Cottage

    Best For:

    Make a wish at the famous Wishing Bridge while exploring the famous valley

    Kerry’s Gap of Dunloe is world-famous for good reason. A narrow glacial mountain pass between the Macgillycuddy’s Reeks and Purple Mountain, the Gap of Dunloe sweeps you alongside five dazzling lakes, as well as the much-loved ‘Wishing Bridge’ (wishes made on the bridge are said to come true!).  Popular with jaunting cars, the route then eventually descends into the Black Valley – one of the last places in Ireland to get electricity.

    Hike the wilds of Killarney and Kerry on our Deluxe hiking trip, The Kerry Mountains.

    Head to Moriarty’s Heather for fresh, simple meals using ingredients from their own kitchen garden as well as local organic suppliers and seafood of the wild Atlantic. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Macgillycuddy Reek’s.

    Get more details on the route here

    Mullaghmore, The Burren 

    The Burren - 20 best hikes in Ireland

    Distance:

    4 miles/6.5 km

    Duration:

    2-3 hours

    Start Point:

    Car park along R476 3/4 mile north of Kilnaboy

    Best For:

    Climbing over the lunar-like Burren landscape

    Remote and alien, the landscape of the Burren is nearly indescribable. Exposed limestone covers the Burren National Park, creating the famous other-worldly landscape. Always beautiful, the very best time to go is spring when the Burren erupts in a vibrant blanket of wildflowers. It is also an area rich in archaeology – find tombs of the ancient Celtic peoples throughout the region. The Burren also has Global Geopark status. Hike the Burren’s dramatic, lunar landscape on our Hiking the Burren, Aran Islands and Connemara trip. 

    After experiencing one of the best hikes in Ireland, chow down on rich seafood chowder at Monk’s in Ballyvaughan. Enjoy refined bistro cooking, or ‘bistronomy,’ at the Wild Honey Inn then indulge your sweet tooth with the farm-to-fork Hazel Mountain Chocolates cafe.

    Get more details on the route here

    Doolin Cliff Walk to the Cliffs of Moher

    Cliffs of Moher - 20 best hikes in Ireland

    Distance:

    4.5 miles/7 km; Longer option: 11 miles/18km

    Duration:

    3-6 hours

    Start Point:

    Doolin village

    Best For:

    ‘Secret’ access to the Cliffs of Moher

    Whether you choose the shorter route finishing the Cliffs of Moher or continue on along the longer route finishing in Liscannor, the Doolin Cliff Walk is a breathtaking hike along the sharp cliff’s edge. Hike along the narrow path while enjoying dramatic views of the swirling Atlantic Ocean far below your feet. One of the best hikes in Ireland, the Doolin Cliff Walk is also called the ‘secret passageway’ to access to the famous Cliffs of Moher! By approaching on foot from the northern end of the Cliffs of Moher, this is the best way to reach the cliffs, enjoy the famous view and still avoid most of the crowds. (Plus, there’s no charge to walk to the Cliffs of Moher!) 

    Take the Doolin Cliff Walk to the Cliffs of Moher and more on the Hiking the Burren, Aran Islands and Connemara trip.

    Enjoy fresh fish n’ chips with locally-sourced fish and hand-cut chips at The Ivy Cottage in Doolin which overlooks one of the best hikes in Ireland.

    Get more details on the route here

    Coumshinguan Loop Walk in the Comeragh Mountains

    Distance:

    4.5 miles/7 km

    Duration:

    4 hours

    Start Point:

    Kilclooney Bridge near Carrick-on-Suir

    Best For:

    Circle one of Ireland’s finest natural amphitheatres and corrie lakes

    Circling the steep walls of a natural amphitheatre, the Coumshinguan Trail takes in the panoramic views of the breathtaking Lough Coumshinguan, one of the finest examples of a ‘corrie lake’ in Europe. Carved out from a lingering glacial pocket, Lough Coumshinguan is fanned by high cliffs and the rolling Comeragh Mountains in every direction. Keep an eye out for birds, including White-tailed Eagles and red grouse.

    Hike the Comeragh Mountains and more of the best hikes in Ireland on our exciting Ancient East Self Drive

    Stop at The Coach House in Kilmacthomasfor a steaming cup of coffee, light sandwiches and mouth-watering treats.

    Get more details on the hike here

    The Tain Way on the Cooley Peninsula

    Cooley Peninsula King Johns Castle

    Distance:

    25 miles/40 km

    Duration:

    3 days

    Start Point:

    3 options: Carlingford, Omeath on the shores of Carlingford Lough, and in Ravensdale at the Lumpers Pub

    Best For:

    Learning about the famous Irish saga, the ‘Cattle Raid of Cooley’

    This 40km circular trail follows in the footsteps of the ancient Irish epic, the Tain Bo Cualinge, or the “Cattle Raid of Cooley,” through the mythical Cooley Mountains. Steeped in Irish mythology, walk through the landscapes that are alive with the legends of Irish heroes such as Queen Maeve, Cuchualain, Finn MaCool and more along one of best hikes in Ireland. Here, the landscapes have inspired enduring legends so much that they began to shape the lands as well as culture. The town of Carlingford is one of Ireland’s top coastal towns, and also happens to be in the heart of leprechaun country. 

    While not currently on any of our scheduled trips, request a tailor made trip to hike along the Tain Way.

    Award-winning PJ O’Hares in Carlingfordis the the best gastro pub in Co. Louth and has the added bonus of displaying leprechaun paraphernalia.

    Get more details on the hike here

    Glendalough in the Wicklow Mountains - Hike Pilgrim Path St Kevin’s Way 

    Glendalough Valley hiking - 20 best hikes in Ireland

    Distance:

    18 miles/30 km

    Duration:

    1 day

    Start Point:

    Hollywood or Vallymount

    Best For:

    Walk through the ‘Garden of Ireland’ and a famous monastic site

    Based on an ancient pilgrimage route, St Kevin’s Way has been walked by pilgrims since medieval times. A hermit who lived deep in the silent mountains of Glendalough, St Kevin’s hermitage inspired the creation of a monastic city in the 11th and 12th centuries, once one of the greatest centres of learning in Ireland. Today, Glendalough is nestled deep in a glacial valley in the Wicklow Mountains, nicknamed the ‘Garden of Ireland,’ and a popular escape from the din of Dublin. Enjoy awe-inspiring views of the lakes snuggled into the valley as you explore the ancient region. 

    Hike Glendalough and more of the best hikes in Ireland on our gentle hiking trip, Hiking the Wicklow Way.

    A stone’s throw from Glendalough, The Wicklow Heather provides hearty meals in a stately atmosphere. Looking for something different? Try the chic, modern restaurant Bryne & Woods, enjoy upscale, local cuisine in comfort.

    Get more details on the hike here

    Lugnaquilla - The Highest Mountain in Wicklow 

    Distance:

    10 miles/16 km

    Duration:

    7 hours

    Start Point:

    Fenton’s Pub in the Glen of Imaal or Baravore car park in Glenmalure

    Best For:

    Summit an ‘Irish Munro’

    The highest point in Wicklow, Lugnaquilla, nicknamed ‘Lug’, is sometimes called an ‘Irish Munro,’ and is certainly one of the best hikes in Ireland. Partially wooded, partially heathland and partially bog, the changeable landscape of Lugnaquilla is as beautiful as it is desolate. Home to many species of birds, as well as deer, fox and hares, Lugnaquilla is not a hike for the faint-hearted as it is exposed to the elements. But the sweeping, expansive views from the summit on a clear day will take your breath away.

    While not currently on any of our scheduled trips, request a tailor made trip to hike Lugnaquilla and the Wicklow Mountains.

    Enjoy a cosy pub atmosphere by an open fire at the Glenmalure Inn while admiring the views of the beautiful glacial valley outdoors. Or, start your day of hiking off right with a hearty pre-adventure Irish breakfast.

    Get more details on the hike here

    Find Your Next Adventure

    Meet the Author: Dawn Rainbolt

    “American by birth but European in spirit, Dawn has called the US, Costa Rica, Spain, England, Poland, France and now Ireland home over the years. While she has travelled to more than 30 countries, she has fallen in love with the rich Irish culture and sweeping landscapes of Ireland. Armed with a Masters Degree in Tourism Marketing and a love of writing and photography, she is Wilderness Ireland's Marketing Executive since 2017.”

    View profileMore by Dawn

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