Ireland is famous for its lush landscapes, rugged coastline, and mythical charm. But beyond the historic castles and cozy pubs, the country is an unparalleled outdoor paradise for hikers. Whether you’re an experienced trekker or on a weekend getaway, Ireland offers a variety of trails that are sure to amaze you.
From towering mountains and coastal trails to misty hills and glacial valleys, these are some of Ireland’s most captivating hikes. We’ll reveal our top picks below trails that combine Ireland’s wild beauty, rich heritage, and soul-stirring scenery into one unforgettable journey.
The Wicklow Way – County Wicklow
Distance: 130 km (can be sectioned)
Difficulty: Moderate
Time: 7–10 days (full route)
The Wicklow Way is one of Ireland’s oldest walking routes, stretching from the southern suburbs of Dublin to the heart of County Wicklow. Known as the “Garden of Ireland,” the area is a haven of upland woodland, glens, and marshes, offering hikers a wealth of hiking opportunities.
Notable sites include one of Ireland’s longest glacial valleys, the mysterious Lough Tay (aka Guinness Lake), and the site of Glendalough Abbey, which is set in a dramatic valley surrounded by lakes and mountains. The route is well-marked and can be tackled in whole or in part, making it accessible to most hikers.
What’s most beautiful about it is that it offers a journey through Ireland’s natural and cultural heritage from the outskirts of the city to the remote countryside through a changing landscape. This route is sure to impress anyone.
Croagh Patrick – County Mayo
Distance: 7 km (round trip)
Difficulty: Strenuous
Time: 3 – 4 hours
It would be an understatement to say that this is one of Ireland’s most popular walks. The iconic pilgrimage has been a spiritual journey for thousands of years, and it is held here. Croagh Patrick, known as “The Reek,” rises 764 metres above Clew Bay and is traditionally climbed by pilgrims, many barefoot, on the last Sunday in July.
The summit is relatively small, but the climb is steep and challenging, especially the final ascent over loose rock. The view from the summit, which offers a heavenly perspective of Clew Bay’s twin islands and the Mayo wilderness, is an extraordinary experience.
It is breathtaking. The reason behind this is the sheer sense of history, spirituality, and panoramic rewards that make this a bucket-list hike. This trail is sure to impress any hiker.
The Kerry Way – County Kerry
Distance: 214 km
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
Time: 9 – 11 days (full route)
The Kerry Way is one of Ireland’s longest and most scenic walks. It mirrors the famous Ring of Kerry driving route, taking in scenery not accessible to cars, including wild moors, tranquil lakes, woodlands, and ancient ruins.
Hikers pass through charming villages such as Sneem and Kenmare, traverse remote mountain passes, and enjoy uninterrupted views of the Atlantic. It is also part of Ireland’s famous coastal route, the wider Wild Atlantic Way.
It’s a long-distance hike through Ireland’s cinematic southwest, with endless natural drama. Hikers can enjoy cinematic views along the way.
Mount Brandon – County Kerry
Distance: 9-12 km (depending on route)
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
Time: 4 – 6 hours
Named after Saint Brendan the Navigator, Mount Brandon is the highest peak in Ireland outside of MacGillycuddy’s Reeks. It offers incredible views of the Dingle Peninsula and beyond especially on a clear day. Its breathtaking scenery makes for a great hiking experience.
There are several routes to the summit, including the Faha Ridge Route for experienced climbers or the more accessible Pilgrim’s Path. Either way, the combination of coastal beauty, myth, and spiritual tranquility makes it a remarkable experience. It is a fascinating experience for anyone, not just hikers.
It attracts hikers with its rugged peaks, ancient spirituality, and 360-degree views of land and sea.
Carrauntoohil – County Kerry
Distance: 12 km (via Devil’s Ladder)
Difficulty: Strenuous
Time: 4 – 6 hours
Carrauntoohil is not just a hike, it is a tradition for Irish adventurers. As Ireland’s highest peak, it rises in the heart of MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, a rugged mountain range known for its dramatic beauty and remote charm. The standard route, Devil’s Ladder, starts in the green Hag’s Glen and climbs up a steep, loose rock gully to a wide summit ridge, where you’ll find a large steel cross marking the summit.
While Devil’s Ladder is the most popular route, it’s important to remember that the path has suffered from erosion over the years and can be difficult to walk on. For those in good fitness and with some experience, alternative routes such as Brother O’Shea’s Gully or the Coomloughra Horseshoe are thrilling ridge walks. They offer views of sparkling mountain lakes such as Lough Eighter and Lough Gouragh.
Glenariff Forest Park – County Antrim
Distance: 3-9 km (multiple trails)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Time: 1 – 3 hours
Known as the “Queen of the Glens,” Glenariff is one of nine glens (valleys) carved by glaciers on the Antrim Plateau. This forest park is located within the Greater Glens of Antrim, a fascinating area of outstanding natural beauty and folklore although it is not a high-altitude trek. Glenariff Forest offers a magical experience full of mossy gorges, cascading waterfalls, and tranquil woodland paths.
The Waterfall Walkway is the park’s showstopper: a 3 km loop that winds through a wooded gorge alongside the Glenariff River, crossing wooden footbridges and revealing hidden waterfalls around every bend. The scenic trail, almost 9 km long, climbs through the forest and opens up views of the valley and the sea beyond.
The Dingle Way – County Kerry
Distance: 179 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Time: 8 – 10 days (full route)
My personal favourite is the Dingle Way. If you’re looking for a route that combines everything with coastline, mountains, traditional villages, prehistoric sites, and stunning scenery then the Dingle Way is our top choice.
Starting and ending in Tralee, the loop trail circles the Dingle Peninsula. You’ll walk along beaches, moors, farms, and dramatic cliffs. The route, which stretches from Dunquin to Slea Head, is often called Ireland’s most beautiful coastal walk, with the Blasket Islands dotted like emeralds off the coast.
The route is well-maintained and has plenty of small towns and B&Bs to enjoy the local hospitality.
Whether you’re climbing the clouds of Carrauntoohil, following in the footsteps of saints at Croagh Patrick, or wandering along the Atlantic on the Dingle Way, hiking in Ireland is more than just a physical challenge, it’s a journey into the spirit of the land.
So lace up your boots, pack your rain jacket, and hit the trail. Because in Ireland, a path isn’t just a path, it’s a story waiting to be discovered.
