With the weather finally brightening up, it’s the perfect time to get outside and explore the Irish countryside.
If you love hikes then we have some gorgeous hikes around the country to get you out of the house!
And while they might not be the easiest, you definitely will have a great day out. And honestly feel like Roz Purcell after it all!
The Mourne Mountains – Co Down
There are plenty of different hikes across the Mourne Mountains in Co Down. You don’t have to climb to the highest peak to explore the beauty around them.In the foothills you’ll find forests.
Take a walk along the Shimna River at Tollymore Forest Park and view many curiosities along the way including rocky outcrops, bridges, grottos and caves!
At Castlewellan Forest Park, explore the garden and see terraces, fountains, ornamental gates and flower borders dotted throughout. Get lost in the Peace Maze, one of the world’s largest permanent hedge mazes where visitors can attempt to solve their way to the bell in the centre.
You can find out more at Discover Northern Ireland.
The Causeway Coast Trail – Co Antrim
If you want to see some incredible sites then you’ll definitely want to head up to Antrim!
There’s quite a lot to see along the Causeway Coastal Route, voted the Number 1 Region in the World to visit by Lonely Planet in 2018.
There’s plenty to see along here including The Gobbins, The Giant’s Causeway and the iconic Mussenden Temple, all of these make incredible hikes.
You can find out all the stops you need to make and hike here.
Coomloughra Horseshoe Loop – Co Kerry
Head to the other end of the country, to County Kerry for the Coomloughra Horseshoe Loop, which is part of the tallest mountain in Ireland – Carrauntoohil.
So this one is definitely for experienced hikers. But if you love a challenge and have conquered most of the other peaks in Ireland.
It is a difficult, challenging, but unforgettable hike!
You can find out more here.
Coill Chnoc Meá – Co Galway
This is a gorgeous 4.2-km loop trail near Beaghmore, County Galway.
You can also keep an eye out for wood carvings and take your time at the ancient stone remains.
It is also said to be the hill of Queen Maebhdh! So if you love Irish mythology this is the walk for you!
You can find out more about the hike here.
Bog of Frogs Loop – Co Dublin
This is a pretty long hike but thankfully there are not too many ascents!
This 15.1 km hike tarts from the Howth DART station and first leads you down West Pier, continue past the Howth Yacht Club, which was founded in 1895, to the East Pier. Walk to the very end, where you’ll have a great view of Ireland’s Eye.
Oh and to keep you walking There are numerous fish shops and restaurants along the pier!
Find out more here.