Appalachian Trail

The Appalachian Trail is a linear trail in the most northwestern corner of Ireland, covering more than 100km. Start at the Sliabh Liag (Slieve League) cliffs and head along the Bluestacks Way before finishing at Ballycastle in Antrim. Rocky, boggy and remote, enjoy 360-degree panoramas of scenic landscapes of cliffs and beaches along the coastline. 

Glencolmcille Loop

Discover the Glencolmcille Loop, a 35km stretch of impressive coastline. Check out the views on the Drum Loop and the shorter Tower Loop, both of which start and end at the Fire Station in Glenn Cholm Cille (Glencomcille) village. Embark on your hike and spot nods to the area's rich history, such as the Megalithic tombs and historical ruins.

Lough Easkey Loop

Soak up the amazing scenery of the 6km Lough Easkey Loop with its lakeshores and green countryside. Hike the 90-minute trail, cross the bridge over the Easkey River and loop back to the trailhead. Admire the lake’s clear waters while walking through the expansive bogland and enjoy the peace of the remote landscape.  

Wild Nephin National Park

Set on 15,000 hectares of land filled with rocky terrain, scenic landscapes and wildlife, the Wild Nephin National Park makes for a lovely hike. Take to the leafy green Letterkeen Loops, ranging from 6km to 12km and for experienced walkers, there’s the challenge of the 40km Bangor Trail. Appreciate this remote park and the beautiful views of the Nephin Beg Mountains.

Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk

The Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk is a 20km coastal cliff path that brings you all the way from Liscannor to Doolin, through the Cliffs of Moher. Roughly 5.5km of the famous trail closed in August 2024 for updates and improvements, including a 5km stretch south of the cliffs between Doolin and Hags Head and a 500m section north of the cliffs themselves. You can still access the trail via open sections north and south of the cliffs and from Doolin directly, where you can take in views of the Árainn (Aran Islands) and Galway Bay in the distance. Take caution when walking this route and always heed any weather warnings – stick to the main paved path and avoid the unpaved sections on the cliff edge, as there are no barriers.

Afterwards, head to lovely Doolin for its traditional Irish music, craic and lively atmosphere. 

Beara Way

Composed of a 242km circuit along the southwestern edge of the Beara Peninsula, the Beara Way trail begins and ends in the small village of Glengarriff. Brimming with archaeological and historical sites, the peninsula is shrouded in mystical legends and is known for its beaches, fishing harbours and offshore islands, which are worth a visit themselves.  

To round off the day, wander down the narrow roads that lead you to some of the county’s finest eateries.

Sheep’s Head Way

If you're looking for a spot to explore on a fun hiking getaway, check out Sheep’s Head Way in West Cork, one of the most remote hiking spots on the Wild Atlantic Way. Although there are plenty of trails along this route, the best views are found along the main 172km loop of the peninsula. Tucked right into the southwestern corner of the country, the trail begins and ends in lovely Bantry, taking in beautiful sights such as Sheep's Head Lighthouse, deserted famine settlements and heathered fields. 

If you're looking for a shorter hike that doesn't skimp on impressive scenery, try the Lighthouse Loop, a 4km segment off the main trail which will lead you straight to the famous landmark.