Exploring the Best Hikes in Ireland

Welcome, one and all, to the land of shamrocks, Guinness, Riverdance and U2. You guessed it – we’re talking about Ireland! And while we all can enjoy a pint of that refreshing stout and debate the country’s best musical export, we’re here to venture beyond pop culture and talk about hiking.

All across the Emerald Isle, you can find incredible hikes for avid and casual hikers alike. Ireland is known for its breathtaking landscapes and offers hikers a diverse range of trails to explore. From the Gap of Dunloe to Kerry Way, here are what we think are some of the best places to hike in Ireland.

Gap of Dunloe

The Gap of Dunloe is a stunning glaciated valley with beautiful switchback trails that offer views of the lush Kerrygold farmlands. Keep an eye out for those world-famous butter producers, the Kerry cows! Hike through the highland bogs to the peak of Strickeen Mountain, part of the magnificent MacGillycuddy's Reeks Mountain Range! This range is home to Ireland’s highest peaks including Carrauntoohil, which sits at 3,406 feet.

Killarney National Park

Established in 1932 and covering over 25,000 acres, Killarney National Park is Ireland's first national park. While there are many beautiful hikes you can do here, we recommend starting at Muckross Lake and trekking towards the majestic Torc Waterfall. This famous 300-foot waterfall is formed by the Owengarriff River and the Devil's Punchbowl.

From the waterfall, make time to explore the ruins of Muckross Abbey, an ancient monastery and graveyard, and a Druid stone circle from 2000 BC. When you’ve got your fill of these fascinating pieces of history, begin your ascent to Torc Mountain for breathtaking 360-degree views of the Lakes of Killarney and the surrounding windswept mountains.

Mount Knockagarrane

Within the rugged Beara Peninsula – a coastal haven steeped in legend and named after a Spanish princess who fell in love with an Irish warrior – lives a lesser-known mountain called Mount Knockagarrane. Follow the Beara Way and look out for waterfalls, jaw-dropping vistas of the peninsula, bay, lakes and glacier-carved mountains. You’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of Inchiquin Lough and Valley at the top!

Kerry Way

Kerry Way is 214 kilometers, making it Ireland's longest (and potentially most popular) marked footpath. We like to hike a portion of the trail that leads us up the northeastern slope of Seefin Mountain. This trail offers tranquil moments in the secluded Glencar Valley, and if you continue on, you’ll reach the Windy Gap, which offers stunning vistas of Caragh Lake and Dingle Bay.

Ready to lace up your hiking boots and explore Ireland for yourself? Join us on our Ireland Walking & Hiking Tour!