Walking holidays in Ireland
With the fast pace of life today, things are so busy and rushed that we are sure to miss out on life’s simpler pleasures. Often the best way to experience more is to slow down, take the time to look and listen, be prepared to stop and wait. But to do this we need to walk. Take a walk, a ride – or even a hike.
Ireland is a perfect walking holiday destination. From the stunning coastlines of Donegal and Antrim to the rolling countryside and beautiful mountains of Kerry. For those walkers in the know, Ireland is a well-kept secret: stunning scenery, inspiring views, and far from the crowds. You won’t find yourself walking down the trail like a crocodile from 20 other people, or sharing your view with the school party.
To get you thinking and walking, we’ve compiled our favorite walks in Ireland to help you plan your route.
The Sheep’s Head Way will take you directly to the tip of the Sheep’s Head Peninsula in south west County Cork. Bantry Bay lies to the north and Dunmanus Bay to the south, linked by a narrow column of mountains culminating in Seefin Hill.
You can choose to walk the 26.5-mile Burren Way, following the Clare coastline, the Cliffs of Moher and across the limestone plateau. Or you can walk the short section along the Burren Way Green Road walk. It’s a beautiful spring walk with lots of wild flowers.
Walking the Kerry Way takes you into the foothills of the Reeks, through Killarney National Park and to the shores of Killarney’s lakes, following old green lanes, mountain tracks and small country lanes. Walk the 120 miles or find your favorite section.
The Dingle Way around the Dingle Peninsula, one of the most beautiful and special places in Ireland. You will walk through Dingle Gaeltact where Gaelic is the spoken language and if you stop and wait a while you will enjoy the live music, dancing and culture that is part of everyday life in the area. Dingle Way maps can be purchased online.
Just south of Dublin it joins the Wicklow Mountains. You can walk through the lake-filled valleys of Glendalough and Luggala or stroll through pretty villages like Enniskerry. Wicklow Way is mainly an easy walk that suits most levels of walkers.
Renting a self-catering cottage is an ideal way to get the best out of the Irish countryside and is the perfect base for walking. You can also book different short-term gites for accommodation along longer routes.