The Best Walking Trails In 2025
Ireland beckons with some of the most enchanting walking trails, tailored to every pace and passion. From dramatic coastal cliffs to ancient mountain paths that have guided travellers for centuries, Ireland’s diverse landscape delivers unparalleled hiking experiences at every turn and is a trekker’s paradise.
Here are five of the best walking trails Ireland has to offer this year that will leave you in awe of the Emerald Isle.
Carrauntoohil
Standing at an elevation of 1,039 metres, Carrauntoohil is Ireland’s highest peak that poses ultimate challenge for hikers. Located in County Kerry’s MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, the climb typically takes over 6 hours to complete about 12-14 km, depending on the route. The most popular route is the Devil’s Ladder, while other options like Caher and Brother O’Shea’s Gully offer tougher but more scenic alternatives. Though demanding, the hike rewards you with sweeping views of ridges, glacial valleys and shimmering lakes, making it one of the best day-long walking trails Ireland offers for avid hikers. Since this is a strenuous hike, we recommend that you attempt this climb with a professional guide.
The Wicklow Way
If you are seeking long distance walking trails, the Wicklow Way inevitably tops every conversation. This legendary 128km trail begins in Marlay Park and ends in Clonegal, taking you through what locals affectionately call the “Garden of Ireland”. You’ll traverse heather-dotted hillsides, pristine mountain lakes, and the mystical monastic ruins of Glendalough. Originally a path for transporting cattle to Dublin, the full journey along this trail typically requires 5-7 days, but you can tackle shorter sections if time is limited such as Lough Tay (Guinness Lake) to Glendalough.
Ballyteige Burrow
Not every trail needs to take a week to finish. The Ballyteige Burrow loop in County Wexford is a relaxed 4.5 km walk across sand dunes and shoreline. Extend it further and you’ll cover nearly 9 extra kilometres along a nature reserve. With butterflies flitting around and sea air filling your lungs, it’s one of the best short walking trails Ireland has for a refreshing getaway.
Errigal
Head to Donegal and ascend the striking peak of Mount Errigal, a 4 km trail gaining over 500 meters in elevation. Famed for its quartzite slopes, Errigal takes on a golden-pink hue when the sun starts to drop, making it a photographer’s dream. While the hike is relatively short with most walkers completing it in 2-3 hours, it’s steep, rocky before rewarding you with panoramic views over the Glenveagh National Park and Derryveagh Mountains.
Cliffs of Moher Coastal Trail
Ireland's coastline equally provides some of the best walking trails Ireland proudly showcases. Starting in Liscannor, the 20km-long Cliffs of Moher coastal trail ends in Doolin, where you'll witness dramatic limestone formations rising from crashing Atlantic waves while seabirds nest in the cliff faces above. However, as of now, a large portion of the coastal trail remains closed for safety and maintenance. Please check for updates before arriving.
If you're planning to walk the Cliffs of Moher coastal trail, it's worth adding a stop in Limerick to your itinerary - a lively city with plenty to see and do. For a deeper look at the city, check out our blog on Limerick and if you’re curious about local routes within the county, read our blog on walking trails in Limerick. Clayton Hotel Limerick is a great base for a comfortable stay before your adventure.
FAQs: Walking trails in Ireland
The Wicklow Way, Carrauntoohil, Cliffs of Moher Coastal Trail, Mount Errigal rank as Ireland's premier hiking destinations.
The Wicklow Way is 128 kilometres long and typically takes 5-7 days to complete on foot.
Carrauntoohil typically takes nearly 6 hours to climb via the most popular route, known as Devil’s Ladder.
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