Ireland offers an abundance of walking opportunities and is an ideal activity holiday destination for recreational walkers of all abilities. Whether you're a local in need of a weekend break or a visitor from overseas planning a multi-week outdoor adventure, the pointers below will help you make the most of your Irish walking holiday / vacation / staycation.
Find places to walk in Ireland
The Ireland Walking Guide lists more than 1,000 different walking locations throughout the thirty-two counties. These include parkland, woodland, beaches, islands and upland locations. For each county, we have also created dedicated 'home' page to showcase all the local walking opportunities available. If you are planning to walk any of Ireland's long distance National Waymarked Trails, you can find the necessary links on our trails page.
Buy a walking guidebook
There is a good selection of Irish walking guidebooks available in bookshops, outdoor stores and from online retailers. Some of these guidebooks focus on specific walking regions while others provide all-Ireland coverage.
Hire a local walking guide
While the services offered by a walking guide is considerably more expensive than buying a guidebook, hiring one of these local experts is probably the best way to gain a thorough understanding of your chosen holiday destination.
Attend a walking festival
Walking festivals are a great low-cost way to explore the Irish countryside under the guidance of local walk leaders. These events, usually hosted by walking clubs and communities, offer a variety of walks and social activities.
Bring the right gear
Pack everything you need so you can deal with whatever weather Ireland throws at you during your holiday. It is advisable to always be prepared for rain when walking in Ireland.
Consider Transport Options
Ireland's cities and towns are generally well connected by regular bus and train services. In the countryside, however, a car is usually the best mode of transport.
Find Accommodation
Make the most of your walking days by staying close to where you'll be walking. This will reduce the amount of travel needed to get to your walk start point, and also allows you to get some valuable local knowledge from the accommodation provider.
Prepare yourself
Find out some background information about walking in Ireland.
Find places to walk in Ireland
The Ireland Walking Guide lists more than 1,000 different walking locations throughout the thirty-two counties. These include parkland, woodland, beaches, islands and upland locations. For each county, we have also created dedicated 'home' page to showcase all the local walking opportunities available. If you are planning to walk any of Ireland's long distance National Waymarked Trails, you can find the necessary links on our trails page.
Buy a walking guidebook
There is a good selection of Irish walking guidebooks available in bookshops, outdoor stores and from online retailers. Some of these guidebooks focus on specific walking regions while others provide all-Ireland coverage.
Hire a local walking guide
While the services offered by a walking guide is considerably more expensive than buying a guidebook, hiring one of these local experts is probably the best way to gain a thorough understanding of your chosen holiday destination.
Attend a walking festival
Walking festivals are a great low-cost way to explore the Irish countryside under the guidance of local walk leaders. These events, usually hosted by walking clubs and communities, offer a variety of walks and social activities.
Bring the right gear
Pack everything you need so you can deal with whatever weather Ireland throws at you during your holiday. It is advisable to always be prepared for rain when walking in Ireland.
Consider Transport Options
Ireland's cities and towns are generally well connected by regular bus and train services. In the countryside, however, a car is usually the best mode of transport.
Find Accommodation
Make the most of your walking days by staying close to where you'll be walking. This will reduce the amount of travel needed to get to your walk start point, and also allows you to get some valuable local knowledge from the accommodation provider.
Prepare yourself
Find out some background information about walking in Ireland.