The Best Walks in Ireland

By Fiona Donnellan

Whether you're planning a hike or just a leisurely Sunday stroll we've picked the best walks in Ireland for you to try.

Sometimes when the weekend rolls around and you're trying to think of the best spots to go for a walk you're stumped. But there are 101 trails and walks across the country to trial. First up is close to home for us, The Royal Canal, Dublin. 

The Royal Canal may start or finish in Dublin, but it cuts through parts of Kildare, Westmeath, and Longford. In total, the walk stretches for 144km so you can dip in and out of the trail depending on time. The trail is gravel and tarmac paths and whilst it's a tad built up in Dublin city, once you move along the walkway you hit unspoiled countryside.

Greystones to Bray in Wicklow is our next favourite walks. Grab the DART to Greystones and from there take the path leading across the top of Bray Head, following the train line along the cliffs with views of the Irish Sea and Wicklow Mountains. This walkway is 7km so an easy afternoon stroll, you end up in Bray and can walk along the stone beach

From Wicklow to Meath. The Hill of Tara is located near the River Boyne, and has a number of ancient monuments to discover along with a lovely walk trail. Plus you'll get some sweeping views across the plains of Meath along the way. It's a short enough loop, only 2km, so if it's the perfect walk if you're feeling like a lazy Sunday stroll. If however you're after a slightly longer route try the Tara Slí which is a 4.5km loop. It starts at the Hill of Tara carpark. 

Next up on our list is Slieve Bearnagh. Slieve Bearnagh is a mountain in the Mourne Mountains, County Down, and is distinct because of The Mourne Wall crossing the summit of Slieve Bearnagh east to west, also for its granite tors on the summit. Both features can't be missed. 

You'll take in view of Sperrins, Lough Neagh, and Strangford Lough. Pack in the carpark and take the Trassey Track. Markers for the Mourne Way indicate you are on the right track! This is nearly a 10km loop.  

Walk number five is a walk in the west of Ireland. It's the coastal walk at Strandhill, Co. Sligo. Start at the car park located along the promenade at the beach. Head along the beach, past the massive sand dunes towards the old church located in Kilaspugbrone. Then on the way back you'll pass woodland and finish back in the car park. It's 4km total, and the views are epic. 

Share your favourite walks using #girloutdoor and let us know which ones are an absolute must.