Best Hikes in Ireland
2 Min Read
01 September 2023
Best Hikes in Ireland

The isle of Ireland is a treasure trove of hidden gems and wonderous hiking trails that journey through enchanting landscapes and vibrant towns and cities. Ireland is one of our most popular hiking destinations, so we’ve rounded up our best hikes in Ireland for you to choose from, including the Dingle Way, the Wicklow Way, and for a bit of a slower adventure Walking Ireland’s West Coast.  

The Dingle Way (West Coast) Best for coastal scenery and quaint villages and pubs

Labelled ‘the most beautiful place on earth’ by Nat Geo, this stunning circular hike journeys along the windswept coast of the Dingle Peninsula. A route peppered with ancient relics and magnificent castles, be whisked back in time while you experience the unchanged charming Irish hospitality and unmatched views.

The most popular of our 5 tours on the Dingle Way is the 10 days/9 Day itinerary. This hikes the entire route with some long days of 14-17 miles and visits all the quaint coastal villages (and pubs!).

If you're short on vacation allowance or wish to hike a bit less, we have shorter versions to accommodate this.  

 
Dunmore Head, The Dingle Way

 

The Wicklow Way (East Coast) Best for history, ancient ruins and Dublin culture

The Wicklow Way and mountains are located south of Dublin, in the center of Ireland’s ‘Ancient East’. These tours all start with a night in Dublin where a dynamic art and music scene and buzzing atmosphere have you falling in love the second you step into the city. The route travels south, following gravel paths through pine forests and tracks that skirt the serene ‘Guinness Lake’ leading to ancient settlements and ruins from a bygone era.

We have 4 tours along the Wicklow Way, the most popular being Dublin & The Wicklow Way In Comfort which showcases premium accommodation in historic estates and award-winning hotels alongside hikes through sensational countryside and mountains older than the Alps and Himalayas.  

 
Glendalough Monastery, The Wicklow Way

 

Ireland’s West Coast Best for ancestry and remote beauty

A series of truly enchanting hikes which are slightly easier on the legs but embrace all of Ireland’s beauty and spirit. The top of our recommended list is Walking Ireland’s West Coast with the iconic Cliffs of Moher and the limestone landscapes of the Burren. 

If you want to see more but still enjoy some hiking, our Wild Atlantic Way Drive & Hike which starts and ends in Dublin should be at the top of your list. Whichever trip you choose, they all treat you to the world-renowned Irish charm, lively pubs with local music and unbelievable natural beauty. The cherry on top of the cake? You can jump on a direct flight from Chicago straight to Shannon, the region’s airport. 


Cliffs of Moher, Ireland's West Coast

 

The Kerry Way (South-west) Best for mountains and long hiking days

Located on the peninsula south of the Dingle, the Kerry Way starts in the gorgeous town of Killarney and loops around the coast. Killarney National Park is Ireland’s oldest protected area, with unspoiled beauty and home to the highest mountains in Ireland (2,000ft). Wander remote glens, vast valleys and historic trails – the origins of many local folklore. The Kerry Way 11 days is our most popular with some wonderful long days of hiking.  

The beauty of Ireland is that you can easily combine tours if you can’t decide which is best – a great option if you're making your hiking adventure part of a longer vacation to Europe.  

These enchanting and dramatic Irish adventures are right at your fingertips. Explore more of the Emerald Isle. 


County Kerry coastline, The Kerry Way

Kirsty Schneider

Written by

Kirsty Schneider
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