Plenty of options are out there for hikers of all levels looking to get dug into an adventure outdoors, with all corners of Ireland boasting scenic trails.
Here is a rundown of some of the best hikes on offer around the country.
Howth Cliff Walk - Dublin
A view of the Bailey Lighthouse, on the Howth trail in Dublin.
Boasting stunning views all around, the Cliff Walk starts at Howth Harbour and runs along a narrow dirt track, taking in the Baily Lighthouse along a 7.8km trail that leads onto Sutton Strand.
The trail takes roughly two hours to complete in its entirety and is easily accessed by taking the DART from Dublin city center to Howth village.
Look out for the 'tiny hidden beach' along the cliff path, with steep steps winding down the cliff edge if you fancy an adventurous detour, and a chance to see seals in the water.
Moanbaun Woods - Cork
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Just outside Watergrasshill, Co Cork, Moanbaun Woods lies on a plateau on high exposed ground and offers a gentle hike along the forest track.
Suitable for kids, it is an ideal hike for groups or families and is also dog-friendly. The hike takes roughly an hour and 15 minutes to complete and is laid out as a loop.
The elevated path allows for lovely views of the Nagle and Galtee Mountains as well as the Ballyhoura Hills.
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Lough Boora Discovery Park - Offaly
Lough Boora Discovery Park, Offaly.
Often marketed as Ireland's 'Hidden Heartlands' the counties of the Midlands are not to be forgotten in the hiking stakes, with Lough Boora Discovery Park offering a range of routes and views.
Located between Tullamore, Birr and Clonmacnoise, the park offers walks of all lengths suitable for all ages and fitness levels, with the Sculpture Park Route a standout option.
3.3km long, the circuit starts and ends at the Lough Boora Visitor Centre - as all routes do - and features a host of innovative land and environmental sculptures along the way.
Abbey Hill - Clare
Abbey Hill - Clare
A manageable hike of just under 6km in the Burren, Abbey Hill can be completed in under two hours. It starts out along the greenway track before going 150m uphill across the limestone to the hilltop.
Views from the top are plentiful; the hiker will spot Oughtmama & Turlough Hills to the south and Ailwee Hill to the west before heading down the far side of the hill towards Corcomroe Abbey.
Corcomroe Abbey was founded in 1194 and an on-site information board on its history can be viewed before completing the final 2km of the hike along the main road, back to where the route started.
* This article was originally published on GeekIreland.com.
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