Autumn is here so it is time to start packing away those sundresses we never got a chance to wear and embrace the woolly jumpers that we kept on standby all summer.
Although the nights are slowly beginning to draw in and the idea of cuddling up beneath a blanket with a cuppa and inhaling the lingering scent of a TK Maxx pumpkin spice candle may seem enticing, we have another potential idea for your perfect autumnal weekend.
It is undeniable that autumn is one of the most beautiful and inspiring times of the year, so why not spend your weekends trying out some new hiking trails before the winter months well and truly set in.
Ireland boasts some incredible hiking trails all over the country so it would be rude not to visit some of these very Insta worthy locations.
Whether you are an experienced mountaineer or just want to stretch your legs on a Sunday morning, we have listed a few of our fav picturesque hikes, and loop walks from a host of counties around the country.
Glendalough – Saint Kevin’s Way and Spinc Walk
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This 30km walk in the Wicklow National Park follows the steps of the monk Saint Kevin who founded the Glendalough Monastery back in the 6th century.
Other popular walks in the area include the Spinc Walk which is about 9km. The walk is said to be quite a strenuous climb; however the mesmerising views make it worthwhile.
Howth Cliff Path Loop Walk
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This 7.8km loop walk begins in the scenic village of Howth, the walk boasts some spectacular views of the sea and the Baily Lighthouse.
Howth village is around 40 minutes from Dublin on the DART.
Sheep’s Head
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Sheep’s Head is located near Bantry in West Cork. Although the Sheep’s Head Walk itself is around 90 km, there are numerous shorter walks that are more manageable for weekend hikers.
The Seefin Loop and the Barán Loop both begin in the village of Ahakista and are about 13km and 8km respectively.
Doonbeg and Black Head Loop Walk
@adammck_ 📍Doughmore Beach, Doonbeg, Clare.#fyp #viral #ireland #clare #staycation #irelandtiktok ♬ Send Me on My Way – Rusted Root
Both the Doonbeg Loop and Black Head Loop are located in West Clare. The Doonbeg Loop begins at the historical Doonbeg Castle and is around 7km long.
The Blackhead Loop begins at Fanore and is a little more challenging. The 26km hike will give you stunning views of Galway Bay and the Aran Islands.
Torc Waterfall Loop Walk
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The Torc Waterfall is located in Killarney National Park in county Kerry. The trail is a steep 8km walk with views of the beautiful waterfall when you reach the top.
Tollymore Forest Park
@d_aiva Autumnal Adventures 🍁🍂🍁 This is a place not to be missed if you’re anywhere near Newcastle / Belfast. A beautiful forest with miles of walks. There are several trail options. A lovely river walk with many beautiful locations such as Foyles Bridge and the Stepping Stones. Or if you feel more active you can head up the mountain walks with fantastic scenery and views out over Newcastle and beyond. There’s something for everyone. It costs just £5 per car to enter. Car park closes at Sunset, make sure arrive early during this time of the year (autumn/winter), so you can have plenty of time to explore this magical place. 📍Tollymore Forest Park, Newcastle, Northern Ireland #northernireland #visitireland #ireland #discoverni #autumnireland #autumnvibes #travelireland ♬ Game of Thrones (Main Opening Theme of the TV Series) – TV Theme Song Maniacs
Tollymore Forest is situated in county Down. The magical forest gained a lot of popularity after featuring in the very first episode of the Game of Thrones series. If you are a fan of the fantasy series or just want to experience the beautiful forest, there are four different trail options: The Arboretum Path, Rivers Trail, Mountain Trail, and The Drinn Trail.
If you would like more inspiration on different hiking locations around the country, Roz Purcell’s, Hike Life is an amazing Instagram account with all the hidden gem hiking routes for you this autumn.
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