The best hiking routes in Ireland
Discover the best walks in Ireland. 399 routes on the map, with descriptions, photos and GPX.
About Ireland
Ireland's walking terrain divides clearly between the rugged Atlantic west and the gentler, historic east. In western regions like County Kerry and County Donegal, walkers encounter steep sandstone ridges, deep sea inlets, and exposed quartzite peaks. Underfoot, the ground often alternates between rocky mountain tracks and thick, waterlogged peat bog. These areas lack manicured paths, meaning walkers must navigate rough, open hillsides where low cloud can quickly obscure the route.
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About Ireland
Ireland's walking terrain divides clearly between the rugged Atlantic west and the gentler, historic east. In western regions like County Kerry and County Donegal, walkers encounter steep sandstone ridges, deep sea inlets, and exposed quartzite peaks. Underfoot, the ground often alternates between rocky mountain tracks and thick, waterlogged peat bog. These areas lack manicured paths, meaning walkers must navigate rough, open hillsides where low cloud can quickly obscure the route.
Read moreIreland's walking terrain divides clearly between the rugged Atlantic west and the gentler, historic east. In western regions like County Kerry and County Donegal, walkers encounter steep sandstone ridges, deep sea inlets, and exposed quartzite peaks. Underfoot, the ground often alternates between rocky mountain tracks and thick, waterlogged peat bog. These areas lack manicured paths, meaning walkers must navigate rough, open hillsides where low cloud can quickly obscure the route.
In contrast, the eastern counties offer more predictable footing and moderate gradients. County Wicklow features rounded granite hills covered in heather, where wide forestry tracks and wooden sleeper boardwalks protect the boggy ground. Further north in County Meath, the landscape flattens into agricultural pasture and quiet river valleys, where walking is mostly on grassy canal towpaths and narrow country lanes. These eastern trails are generally easier to follow and lie closer to services.
Timing your walk changes the landscape significantly. In August, the hillsides of County Wicklow turn purple as the heather blooms, while the limestone pavements of County Clare are best visited in May when rare alpine wildflowers grow in the rock crevices. Walkers should expect wet ground underfoot throughout the year, requiring sturdy boots rather than light trainers.
Regions in Ireland
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Hiking routes in Ireland (399)
#1. Abbeyleix Bog Walk 1
#2. Abbeyleix Bog Walk 2
#3. An Gleann Loop
#4. Anthony TrollopeTrail
#5. Araglin - Clogheen
#6. Ardgroom - Lauragh
#7. Ardgroom Pulleen Loop
#8. Ardnakinna West Island Loop
#9. Ardra Loop
#10. Ards Forest - Red Walk
#11. Ards Forest - Yellow Route
