Top 5 Hiking Spots in Ireland

Photo Credit: Nelly Windmill

When it comes to finding the perfect hiking destination, Ireland comes up trumps on a lot of fronts. Beautiful scenery, a plethora of routes and numerous things to see along the way makes it a fantastic choice for ramblers and hikers keen to rack up some serious miles.

If you’ve got your heart set on an Irish walking holiday, but you’re unsure where to make the focus of your trip, take a look at these examples of some of the best hiking Ireland has to offer.

The Brandy Pad

Smuggling was big business in centuries gone by and some of the routes favoured by smugglers, carrying lots of silk, tobacco and of course brandy, are now the haunt of ramblers and hikers.

The seven mile Brandy Pad takes walkers through some of the most picturesque areas of the Mourne Mountains, in a route steeped in fascinating local history,

The Ring of Kerry

One of the longest routes in Ireland, the Ring of Kerry in southern Ireland is one of the longest routes in the country. Passing beautiful sights such as Muckross Abbey and the Torc Waterfall, this is a perfect route for enthusiastic photographers with a passion for capturing scenic images.

The Devil’s Ladder

The route to the summit of Carrauntoohil, the highest peak in Ireland, is infamously known as the Devil’s Ladder. Don’t be put off by the dramatic nature of the name; making the ascent doesn’t require any specialist equipment, although it should only be attempted by more experienced walkers.
Over time and with increasing use, the path itself has become rather treacherous. Loose stones and rock make walking boots an absolutely must, while the wet conditions which normally prevail at the top of the mountain require waterproof clothing for anyone making the walk.

Take a look at the range of Berghaus jackets, available to buy online from Springfield Camping, that are designed to accompany waterproof trousers and boots – just the job for protecting you from the elements.

Inishbofin Westquarter Loop

Don’t imagine that you have to limit yourself to an Irish walking adventure in the height of summer. Winter walking can offer some truly fantastic scenery and there is no better place to take advantage of this than country’s beautiful coastal areas and neighbouring islands like Inishbofin.

The island itself is a haven for walkers, with routes like the popular Westquarter Loop offering beautiful views of the coastline. However, for something truly unique, visit the neighbouring island of Inishark. Abandoned in the 1960s, the remaining cottages and houses give the place an eerier feel, as do the countless monuments to those lost at sea in the island’s waters.

To find out more about the island, including places to stay and things to do, take a look at the official website.

Urban walking in Dublin

Though Ireland’s lush countryside and rolling hills are the major attraction for walkers, those in search of a more urban experience can find it in the country’s capital. Dublin’s stunning architecture and vibrant history make it a great location for a city walking tour.

Why not take in the many stories the city has to tell, as you clock up the miles in your walking boots, with a guided tour? If you’re staying in Dublin for a few days, use this an introduction to the city, to get to know it a little better before you embark on your own adventures.