Hiking in Ireland
Including Connemara National Park, Coumshingaun Corrie Lake, and Kerry Way. On the map.
The vibe
Wind-scoured ridges and boggy turf give walking here an elemental, unmanicured edge that differs entirely from the manic gravel tracks of continental ranges. Late spring and early autumn bring the most reliable daylight and firmest ground beneath your boots. You mostly navigate open country on your own steam, sharing stiles with local sheep rather than crowds of trekkers.
Connemara National Park
County Galway
EliziR / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Dominated by the Twelve Bens mountain range, this park features boglands, heaths, and rugged peaks. The Diamond Hill loop is a standout hike, providing panoramic views over the Atlantic coastline and the surrounding islands.
Access. Located near Letterfrack; best reached by car from Galway city.
Notes. Trails can be very boggy; sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are mandatory.
Coumshingaun Corrie Lake
The Municipal District of Comeragh
kevin higgins / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)
A spectacular hike in the Comeragh Mountains leading to one of the finest examples of a corrie lake in Europe. The trail involves a steep ascent to the ridgeline, offering dizzying views down into the deep, dark waters of the lake below.
Access. Trailhead is located in the Nire Valley or via the Kilclooney woods; accessible by car.
Notes. The ridgeline walk is exposed and requires a good head for heights.
Kerry Way
Killarney Municipal District
Joseph Mischyshyn / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)
Ireland's longest signposted trail, this route encircles the Iveragh Peninsula, offering spectacular views of the Atlantic, rugged mountains, and ancient woodlands. It is a premier multi-day trek that captures the wild, untamed essence of the southwest coast.
Access. The trail begins and ends in Killarney, which is well-connected by rail and bus from major cities.
Notes. Requires careful planning for accommodation as some sections are remote.
Mount Errigal
County Donegal
Colin Park / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)
The highest peak in County Donegal, Errigal is famous for its iconic conical shape and quartzite scree slopes. The hike to the summit is a steep, rewarding climb that offers sweeping views across the desolate, beautiful landscape of Gweedore.
Access. Trailhead is located off the R251 road; parking is available in a designated gravel lot.
Notes. The scree slopes are loose and slippery; poles are highly recommended.
Ox Mountains Way
Ballymote-Tubbercurry Municipal District
Oliver Dixon / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)
Discover a quiet, rugged ridge walk across ancient metamorphic rock uplands in Counties Sligo and Mayo. The terrain features blanket bogs, open moorland, and panoramic views stretching across drumlin fields to the Atlantic Ocean. It offers a remote, crowd-free hiking experience for those seeking solitude.
Access. Trailheads can be accessed via local rural roads from Tubbercurry or Enniscrone; a rental car is recommended.
Notes. Navigation skills and waterproof boots are essential due to boggy terrain and occasional lack of waymarking.
Slieve League Cliffs
County Donegal
David Dixon / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)
Towering significantly higher than the Cliffs of Moher, these sea cliffs offer a thrilling and steep hike along the One Man's Pass. The terrain is narrow and exposed, providing some of the most dramatic coastal vistas in Europe.
Access. Accessible via a narrow road from Carrick in County Donegal; parking is available at the lower viewpoint.
Notes. The One Man's Pass is extremely narrow and should be avoided in high winds or poor visibility.
The Burren Way
County Clare
Michael Dibb / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)
Traverse a surreal lunar-like limestone landscape along ancient green roads and coastal cliffs in County Clare. The terrain features dramatic karst pavement, rich Arctic-Alpine flora, and sweeping views across Galway Bay. It offers a moderate walking experience with fascinating geological and archaeological sites.
Access. The trail begins in Ballyvaughan and spans roughly 123 km through Doolin and Lisdoonvarna, easily accessible by regional buses or rental car.
Notes. Weather can change rapidly on the coast; sturdy footwear is essential due to uneven limestone surfaces.
Wicklow Mountains National Park
The Municipal District of Wicklow
DI Florian Fuchs / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
This expansive mountain range offers a mix of rugged, high-altitude terrain and serene glaciated valleys. Hikers can tackle the challenging Wicklow Way or enjoy shorter, scenic routes around the historic monastic site of Glendalough.
Access. Easily accessible by car or bus from Dublin, with the main trailhead located at the Glendalough Visitor Centre.
Notes. Weather can change rapidly; waterproof gear is essential even in summer.