Waymarked

Take things at your own pace and get away from it all on one of Ireland’s National Waymarked Trails.There are currently an impressive 43 from which to choose. They can be found meandering along our stunning coastline with views out over the ocean and through the lesser-visited midland where vast views of rolling hills and a patchwork of tidy fields greet the eye.

From the reasonably short 26km Cavan Way to the 214km Kerry Way, each and every one cuts through exceptional scenery and offers unforgettable sights. These routes are split into stages and usually have plenty of accommodation along the way so you can decide how far to walk each day.

A favourite for many is the circular 196km Beara Peninsula Way which runs along a narrow finger of mountainous land that juts into the Atlantic. It remains one of the most unspoilt parts of the South West and is a magical world of mountains and lakes surrounded by staggering coastal vistas. Walkers here get up close and personal with the past as they pass many prehistoric standing stones and burial monuments but for many the highlight is crossing to Dursey Island on Ireland’s only cable-car.

Other walkers love the hidden treasures of the lesser-known 77km Slieve Bloom Way. This route traverses lofty heathery ridges and descends into deep glens where pretty streams flow. The Slieve Blooms stand alone on Ireland’s central plain so offer extensive views.

There are many more gems of varying lengths and requiring different fitness levels just waiting to be discovered. Choosing which one is for you might just be your biggest challenge!