Guest post by Paula Casey
5 Must-Do Walks and Hikes in Ireland
Experience the magical Emerald Isle on foot
Ireland captures everyone’s imagination with its history, culture, people and charming, albeit, unpredictable weather! While the natural sights are breathtaking and seemingly fairytale, Lonely Planet also correctly identifies one underrepresented aspect of a trip to this ancient land: “From majestic craggy mountains to lush lakeside woods, from broad sandy beaches to blankets of wild bog stretching as far as the eye can see, Ireland’s great outdoors will never disappoint.”
We’ll take you around the country with 5 must-do walks and hikes that will show you this golden nugget in the Atlantic as you’ve never seen it before.
1. Malin Head, County Donegal
Starting at the northernmost point of the island, this historical walk showcases an unforgettable round-up of everything that comes to mind when you think of Ireland: rugged coastline, fascinating history, lush green fields and folktales. The walk itself isn’t difficult or very long at 4.5km, however you need to prepare for some uneven, elevated ground plus unpredictable weather and cold air straight off the ocean — you might even see Scotland on a clear day. A bonus talking point is that this site was used in Star Wars: The Last Jedi. [More information]
Image by Hazel McLaughlin from Pixabay
2. Ticknock Walk from Tibradden, County Dublin
Only a short drive from Dublin city, this walk shows how you can experience both the city and the woods as well as some fairy magic! The walk itself is a medium level and can easily be completed solo or by a family, with a range of trails from 6km through to 18km. You’ll get to see the Fairy Castle all while experiencing gorgeous woods, views of Dublin and the Dublin Mountains before returning to the city for a post-hike feast of some well-earned pub fare. [More information]
Photo by Marian Brandt on Unsplash
3. Blackrock Castle/Estuary/Old Railway Line Loop, Cork City, County Cork
Starting about 3km east from the city centre, this 8km loop takes you along the water, past a 16th Century castle, along estuary pathways and brings you back to the city via the converted Cork to Crosshaven railway line. An extremely popular walking track that is largely closed to traffic, this route is family friendly and you’ll discover the city’s history across the centuries. Depending on where you’re based, you can extend your loop to start in the city, stop at the castle for lunch and enjoy the sights! [More information]
Image by Daniel Byram from Pixabay
4. Carrowteige Loop Walk, County Mayo
Considered one of the “unpolished jewels in the Mayo tourism crown”, this area in the West is more of a treasure chest with its cliffs, crags and views of the Stags of Broadhaven. Like many places throughout Eire (the Irish name for the island), Carrowteige is considered to be referenced in the legend The Children of Lir with one of the loop options named after the story. Take your time here and spend the day in some seriously sublime nature tackling these walks that start at 10km — you can even swim in the sheltered coves. [More information]
Photo by roya ann miller on Unsplash
5. Benbulbin and Kings Mountain Loop, County Sligo
For your final stop, journey north to “Yeats Country” and the Dantry Mountains. You’ll visit this spectacular plateau as part of a moderate yet lengthy 8km loop that will leave you tired and entirely satisfied as you look out over the panorama of fields, gullies, lakes and the coast. As this is a half day walk, with a range of loop options, you can comfortably fit in more exploration of the legendary area around Benbulbin including W.B. Yeats’ grave and the local forests with unique flora. A fitting finish to your tour around the country on foot. [More information]
Photo by Miles Iwes on Unsplash
Now that you’ve got some ideas for places to go, check out this infographic, ‘How to Prepare For Your First Day Hike’, from Gabor Shoes designed to help you get ready to take these paths on and experience Ireland’s extraordinary diversity.
Which one of the 5 Must-Do Walks and Hikes in Ireland would you like to do first?
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My name is Paula Casey and I am the Marketing Manager of Gabor Shoes Ireland.
Gabor Shoes Ireland is a premium ladies footwear retailer based in Co. Kerry, Ireland.
