Why walk in Ireland?
Inspire yourself and set your senses alight with a walk through some of the most memorable scenery in the world.
-
Overview
There's a good reason why Ireland is fast becoming known as a walker's paradise. This luscious green country on the western edge of Europe not only has the kind of temperate climate that walkers love, but the variety of landscape here is exceptional for such a small country.
The island of Ireland was designed by nature to offer the best walking routes, so whether you want to go on a walking holiday, join the fun of a walking festival or simply branch out on your own self-guided tour, there’s something for everyone on this idyllic island.
Ireland is a land filled with powerful and dramatic landscapes just waiting to be discovered – from rugged rural landscapes to Europe’s highest sea cliffs. Tackling Ireland’s mountains and soaring hills is a challenging and inspirational way to get close to the country’s nature and wildlife, while a trek along an ancient pilgrim’s route brings Ireland’s unique history to life.
Whatever your choice of walk, Ireland's got something to offer with nature, history, archaeology, scenery and the ever famous craic (good fun).
Back to top -
The routes
One of the delightful aspects of walking in Ireland is knowing that you can experience magical scenery – at your own pace. All of the marked walks on the island of Ireland have been designed so that you can estimate roughly how long it will take you to complete, and fit these refreshing treks into your travel plans with ease.
In terms of types, all walks are either linear, where your start and finish point are in different places; or Looped/Circular, which means you start and finish in the same place. The Republic of Ireland has developed a series of National Loop Walks, which are clearly marked and easy to navigate, while highlighting areas of local interest along the way. While Northern Ireland has its own carefully selected series of Circular Walks, which take you through stunning vistas and awesome landscapes.
Back to top -
Taking your time
Short Walks across the length and breadth of the island can take anything from 2-5 hours; Medium Walks are displayed in sections and can take up to a few days to complete, with the sections broken up so that you don’t have to tackle the whole distance all at once; while Long Distance Walks, if you’re to complete the entire walk, can take a few weeks or more. Each clearly marked section has its own highlights, so that even if you are short on time, you can still enjoy the freshness of the air and the beauty of the landscapes.
The island’s marked walks will also indicate what type of terrain you will be crossing, too, which will help you to plan what to take with you for your journey. And with most accommodation providers more than happy to provide packed lunches, you’ll be able to sit back and take time out from your walk to soak up the magnificent views however long you have to spare.
Back to top -
The landscapes
Ireland may be renowned for its 40 shades of green, but there is a lot more to the landscape than just its Emerald hue. As an island, we are bestowed with a glorious coastline that boasts ruggedly isolated inlets, as well as wide golden beaches stretching as far as the eye can see. Some areas, though, have captured the imagination with their utterly picturesque landscapes and diverse range of flora and fauna, and have been designated National Parks (Republic of Ireland) or Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (Northern Ireland) as a result.
Forest trails are another delightful way to experience nature at its very best. The Republic of Ireland’s designated Forest Parks not only surround you with scenic views, but you can also avail of full visitor facilities and a series of marked nature trails. Nature Trails in Northern Ireland are equally as breathtaking and fully cater for the needs of visiting walkers. Mountain and hill walks are plentiful, too, with the rolling landscapes often leading you into lush green valleys where it’s easy to succumb to the heady scent of nature’s wildness. Historical, archaeological walks and pilgrim paths, meanwhile, will enlighten you with their prolific ruins, compelling mythology and the island’s deep-rooted Christian heritage.
Country parks and estates, of course, provide ideal terrain for gentler, more family-orientated strolls, with Powerscourt Estate and Gardens, County Wicklow, and the Castle Ward demesne, County Down, just two of the many exquisitely maintained places to explore. Challenge Walks, on the other hand, are for the more skilled walker, with long-distance walks, such as the Ulster Way and the Kerry Way providing a real test of stamina.
Whichever type of landscape you choose to walk, though, there are some things that are guaranteed: fresh air, outstanding views and, more than anything, the chance to meet friendly locals along the way.
Back to top
Listings
Framar Health
Framar Health are located in Belfast, Northern Ireland and are an...
The Brehon
The Brehon and Angsana Spa,a luxurious hotel of unique style,...
Official links
-
Discover Ireland’s dramatic landscapes
-
Your definitive guide to walking in Northern Ireland
-
Waymarked Ways of Ireland
-
Get out, get active, be alive
-
Promoting responsible use of our countryside
-
A selection of the best day walks in Ireland
What else to explore
-
Ordnance Survey for the Republic of Ireland
-
Ordnance Survey for Northern Ireland
-
Waterway Walks around Ireland
-
The Causeway Coast and Glens Heritage Trust website
-
Providing for the management of the Mourne and Slieve Croob Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).
-
Welcome to the National Parks and Wildlife Service
-
Walks from the Irish Heart Foundation
-
Protection, preservation and enhancement of our national heritage
-
The definitive guide to outdoor activities in Northern Ireland (CAAN)
Your definitive guide to outdoor activities in Northern Ireland
-
The representative body for walkers and climbers in Ireland
-
Governing body for Rambling and Hill-Walking Clubs in the North of Ireland
