Nine great walking routes on the island of Ireland

From greenways to cliff paths, and mountains to woodlands, there are wonderful trails on the island of Ireland to suit dedicated hikers and fair-weather walkers alike.

Step out on these nine great routes that all come with a stamp of approval from Tourism Ireland.

Howth Cliff Path, Co Dublin

Walking this 6km looped trail is a brilliant way to spend an afternoon.

Easily reached from Dublin City, the Howth Cliff Path walk offers superb views over Dublin Bay as it wends its way along the cliff path and over heather-clad hills.

You’ll see the picturesque Baily Lighthouse perched at the end of a peninsula before starting your descent into the charming village of Howth.

Howth Cliff Walk, Howth Head, Co Dublin. (Ireland's Content Pool)

Hare’s Gap, Mourne Mountains, Co Down

The majestic Mournes offer many paths to its peaks but the climb to Hare’s Gap is easily done in a few hours.

Considered to be the most dramatic pass in the Mournes, Hare’s Gap was created by glaciers and was once a favourite haunt of smugglers.

Hare's Gap, Co Tyrone. (Discover Northern Ireland)

Glencar Hill Walk, Co Leitrim

This beautiful 7km trail rises up from the shores of Glencar Lake past the “wandering water” of the waterfall that was immortalised in the poetry of W B Yeats.

At its highest point of Glencar Hill Walk, you will be treated to spectacular views over Sligo Bay, Knocknarea, and beyond.

Glencar Lake, Co Leitrim. (Ireland's Content Pool)

Carrauntoohil, Co Kerry

Ireland’s tallest mountain is the ultimate challenge for hikers in Ireland.

Rising to over 1,000m, Carrauntoohil has three routes to the top including the aptly named Devil’s Ladder. Not for the faint-hearted, the climb is demanding and lengthy but rewards hikers with breathtaking views.

For those looking for a less arduous climb, the Cronin’s Yard Loop is an 8km walk through the foothills of the mountain.

Stony path, Carrauntoohil, MacGillicuddy Reeks, Co Kerry. (Ireland's Content Pool)

Gobbins Cliff Path, Co Antrim

Said to be Europe’s most dramatic cliff walk, The Gobbins is a unique adventure.

Clinging to the side of a cliff, the walkway is made up of tubular and suspension bridges with steps down into smugglers caves and undersea tunnels.

Only accessible on a three-hour guided tour, the Gobbins Cliff Path combines an elemental experience with insights into local history and folklore.

The Gobbins Cliff path, Co Antrim. (Ireland's Content Pool)

Glendalough, Co Wicklow

The location of a sixth-century monastic site, Glendalough is one of the most beautiful places for a walk on the island. The ancient landscape is dotted with the remains of the religious buildings including an impressive round tower.

The lake walk is stunning and the experience is even more magical on a night-hike.

Glendalough, Trail, Co Wicklow. (Ireland's Content Pool)

Royal Canal Greenway

The full length of the greenway runs 130km from Maynooth to Longford, but you can join it at 12 different access points to walk as much or little as you want.

The Royal Canal Greenway route follows a towpath beside the canal and is mostly flat. Along the way, there are plenty of heritage sights including old bridges, locks, and aqueducts.

Cycling on the Royal Canal Greenway, Co Westmeath. (Ireland's Content Pool)

Sperrin Mountains, Co Tyrone

An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty yet one of the lesser-known parts of Northern Ireland, the Sperrin Mountains have walking trails to suit every ability.

Ramble through Gortin Forest, loop around Vinegar Hill, or enjoy a riverside walk at Dunnamore and let the peace of the mountains inspire you.

Walkers on Sperrins Trail, Co Tyrone. (Ireland's Content Pool)

Lough Derg Way, Counties Limerick, Clare, and Tipperary

If you’re looking for a multi-day hike, the Lough Derg Way is perfect. Stretching for 68km, it can be walked in three days and follows a mix of riverbank, canal bank, forest track, old roadway and minor roads.

Along the way you’ll pass charming villages and heritage towns.