There is some great walking just a stone’s throw from our cities so even if you are on an urban break you can still get out and stretch your legs. These routes offer the perfect burst of fresh air when you’ve tired of streetscapes and traffic.
As Dublin is on the coast, many visitors enjoy the walks that overlook the sea. Dun Laoghaire’s piers are a great place to see and be seen. Beaches within the city limits like Dollymount and Sandymount are other great options.
But if you want to feel even more away from it all, check out the fantastic looped walks on stunning Howth Head. With its craggy cliffs, secluded coves and abundant gorse, it has a great wild feel but is easily accessible by Dart.
The Dublin Mountains and Wicklow are also just a short hop away and offer limitless options from quick strolls to day-long hikes.
If you happen to be in Kilkenny, Cork, Limerick or Galway, there are lots of choices too.
Highlights include the section of the Nore Valley Walk which runs from Kilkenny City to charming Bennetsbridge. Mostly running along the picturesque river bank, the route takes you through farmland and woods, and past ruined mills.
If you’re visiting Limerick there are long stretches where you can walk out from the city along the Shannon and nearby Lough Derg also has lots of walking temptations. Or check out the Dromore Wood, Ballycroum and Errinagh Bridgelooped walks which are not too far away if you’re driving.
On a visit to Cork, you could take a walk on the wild side in fabulous Fota Wildlife Park, with wallabies, cheetahs and penguins.
As for Galway, there is lovely seaside walking in Salthill or you might prefer to check out Cong Woods, Blackhead or Carran loops which are not too far away. And you’re only a hop, skip and a jump from endless options in Connemara.