Best Long-Distance Hiking Trails in Ireland & Northern Ireland
April 15, 2026"I will arise and go now, for always night and day
I hear lake water lapping with low sounds by the shore;
While I stand on the roadway, or on the pavements grey,
I hear it in the deep heart's core." - W.B.Yeats
There are many things that first come to mind when imagining Ireland: traditional Celtic music, a pantheon of all-time greats of literature, the roaring yodels of The Cranberries, a pint of Guinness and a packet of cheese and onion Taytos, and crucially; the never-ending landscapes of green.
It's no secret that the scenery of both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland have inspired the masses for centuries (with no sign of stopping). And while no one's expecting you to go on a hike and come back with a fully-formed Pulitzer Prize winner, there's no harm in getting your feet stuck into some of these iconic landscapes this year.
And what better way to enjoy nature than a good old-fashioned hike? Spanning across much of both countries, we've put together a list of just some of the best long-distance hiking trails this island has to offer. From the distinctive boglands of Fermanagh and the mountainous landscapes of Donegal, to the rolling hills of Kerry and the ancient Pilgrim's Walk of Saint Patrick; there's a little something for everyone here.
Disclaimer: Ireland is known for championing all four seasons in one single day. So, if you're trying to get an idea of what kit to bring, it's well worth investing in some reliable waterproofs, a sturdy pair of men's or women's hiking boots, and a burly three to four-season tent.
Without further ado…
The Ulster Way
Location: The six counties of Northern Ireland | Distance: 636 miles | Duration: 3 to 5 weeks+
At a hefty 636 miles, The Ulster Way is the longest hiking trail on the whole island. Taking in the six counties of Northern Ireland, it's also one of the most unique ways to get to know the North in its entirety. It's a circular route crossing the Mourne mountains, the iconic Giant's Causeway, the spine of the Sperrins, the uplands of the Fermanagh lakelands, and a hell of a lot more. Better described as a multi-week expedition than a standard hiking trail, the Ulster Way consists of mostly waymarked routes, with a few non-waymarked sections where public transport is recommended.
Where does the Ulster Way start and finish?
The Ulster Way is a circular route encircling Northern Ireland, so it has no fixed start or finish point. Most walkers choose to join or leave the trail at a convenient town or transport hub. Belfast is the most popular base for those tackling it in sections, while the trail is also commonly accessed at Newry, Enniskillen and Portrush. The route can be walked clockwise or anticlockwise, and in its entirety or in individual sections.
How long does it take to walk?
Due to its enormous length, most walkers tackle the Ulster Way in sections rather than as a single continuous thru-hike. Walking the full 636 miles takes approximately three to five weeks, based on an average of around 20 miles per day. The trail is divided into 26 sections, each of which can be walked independently over one or more days – making it equally suitable for a weekend break or a summer-long adventure.
Difficulty level
The Ulster Way is a mixed-difficulty trail. Its Quality Sections – the waymarked, off-road stretches that pass through Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty – range from moderate to challenging, taking in open bogland, mountain terrain and coastal clifftops. The non-waymarked Link Sections, which follow public roads, are more straightforward but less scenic; walkers are actively encouraged to use public transport on these sections and focus their energy on the Quality Sections.
Accommodation along the way
Accommodation varies significantly across the trail, from plentiful options in towns such as Newcastle, Bushmills and Enniskillen to more limited choices in remote rural stretches. B&Bs, guesthouses, hostels and hotels can all be found along the route, though advance booking is strongly recommended for busy sections and peak season. The WalkNI website at walkni.com provides a full interactive map of accommodation and food options along each of the 26 sections.
The Kerry Way
Location: Starts and finishes in Killarney | Distance: 133 miles | Duration: 7–10 days
Located in the south-west region of Ireland, County Kerry is famed for its unbelievable vistas of green. It's also home to the highest mountain range in Ireland, the MacGillycuddy's Reeks mountains, as well as the tallest peak on the island, Carrauntoohil. The Kerry Way, however, loops around the Iveragh Peninsula, passing through some of the most iconic landscapes in the country. While still challenging, this hiking route sticks to the lower reaches of the mountain ranges rather than the high peaks themselves, taking in more scenery in a shorter amount of time. Including farmlands, boglands, tarmac sections, and abandoned old coach roads (known as 'boreens' in Irish); it's the walking alternative to the famous Ring of Kerry driving route. It also starts and ends in the tourist town of Killarney, so rest assured, you'll have a nice place to stay once you've finished.
Where does the Kerry Way start and finish?
The Kerry Way starts and finishes in Killarney, County Kerry – a well-connected tourist town with good rail and bus links from Dublin and Cork. The route runs anti-clockwise around the Iveragh Peninsula, passing through villages including Black Valley, Glenbeigh, Cahersiveen, Waterville, Caherdaniel, Sneem and Kenmare before returning to Killarney.
How long does it take to walk the Kerry Way?
Most walkers complete the Kerry Way over nine or ten days. The trail is typically divided into nine stages of between 13 and 25 kilometres each, though the pace is entirely flexible. Those who want to take a more relaxed approach often allow extra rest days, particularly in the earlier mountain stages around the MacGillycuddy's Reeks.
Difficulty level
The Kerry Way is rated as moderate. While the Iveragh Peninsula is mountainous, the route deliberately avoids the high peaks, skirting mountain flanks and passes rather than summiting them. That said, there is a significant amount of road walking (around 47% of the route), and some sections of open moorland can be wet and muddy underfoot, particularly outside the summer months. The total ascent across the full route is approximately 5,400 metres.
Accommodation along the way
The Kerry Way has some of the best accommodation infrastructure of any Irish long-distance trail. B&Bs, guesthouses, hotels and hostels can be found in most of the overnight villages, with the hostel at Black Valley and options in Glencar, Cahersiveen, Waterville, Sneem and Kenmare being popular stops. During peak season (May to September), accommodation fills quickly and advance booking is essential. Luggage transfer services are widely available, allowing walkers to travel light between stages.
The Burren Way
Location: Lahinch to Corofin | Distance: 71 miles | Duration: 3 to 5 days
Traversing much of the Burren National Park, The Burren Way takes you across some of County Clare's most fascinating and unique landscapes. More specifically it takes you across The Burren itself, a mystical area of broken bedrock consisting of glacial-era limestone, remote cliffsides, archaeological sites of interest, and much more. While isolated and desolate in parts, The Burren Way also takes you through ancient woodlands, coastal towns and quaint Irish villages. Along the way you'll have views across to Galway Bay and the Aran Islands, as well as visits to ancient Christian monuments and neolithic ruins. If you fancy a little detour, you'll even have the option of visiting the lesser known – more modern – site of interest known as Father Ted's House. Iconic, to say the least.
Where does the Burren Way start and finish?
The Burren Way starts in Lahinch – a popular surfing town on the County Clare coast – and finishes in the inland village of Corofin, roughly 114 kilometres to the north-east. The trail passes through Liscannor, Doolin, the Cliffs of Moher coastal walk, Lisdoonvarna, Ballyvaughan, Carran and Kilnaboy along the way. Many walkers choose to begin in Ballyvaughan instead, focusing on the more dramatic limestone interior sections and skipping the coastal road walking.
How long does it take to walk the Burren Way?
Most walkers complete the Burren Way in four to five days. A typical five-day itinerary takes you from Lahinch to Liscannor (or the Cliffs of Moher), then to Doolin, Fanore, Ballyvaughan, Carran and finally Corofin, with stages varying between 12 and 25 kilometres per day.
Difficulty level
The Burren Way is generally considered a moderate trail. The terrain is a mix of tarmac road, old green roads, ancient droving tracks, coastal paths and some forestry. Total ascent across the full route is around 550 metres, meaning there are no sustained steep climbs. The main challenges are the exposed coastal sections in poor weather and some stretches on busier roads. The dramatic clifftop section between the Cliffs of Moher and Doolin is the trail's undisputed highlight.
Accommodation along the way
Accommodation along the Burren Way is plentiful, with a good selection of B&Bs, guesthouses and hostels in the main overnight villages. Doolin in particular has a strong walker infrastructure, with several hostels and campsites. The Aille River Hostel and Nagle's Camping are both popular options there. Ballyvaughan and Lisdoonvarna also offer a good range of accommodation. Booking ahead is advised in summer months. For those keen on camping, there are designated sites in Doolin and a handful of other locations along the route.
The Wicklow Way
Location: Marlay Park to Clonegal via Co. Wicklow | Distance: 81 miles | Duration: 5 to 7 days
With an average ascent of 3,200m (10,500ft), the Wicklow Way is traditionally hiked from north to south, starting in Marlay Park in South Dublin, and finishing in Clonegal in County Carlow. On the route you'll pass through County Wicklow (nicknamed 'The Garden of Ireland'), and meander through the iconic hills and valleys of the Wicklow Mountain Range. Created in 1980, the Wicklow Way is actually Ireland's first signposted long-distance hiking trail and is arguably one of the more accessible routes on this list. Whilst wild camping is – technically – not legal in Ireland, many just ask local landowners for permission to camp whilst on this trail. Alternatively, you'll find a fair amount of local B&Bs and hostels along the way, though you'll want to book well in advance.
Where does the Wicklow Way start and finish?
The Wicklow Way runs from Marlay Park on the southern outskirts of Dublin to the village of Clonegal in County Carlow. It is traditionally walked from north to south, though it can also be completed in reverse – finishing in Dublin makes onward travel considerably easier. The route passes through Enniskerry, Roundwood, Laragh, Glenmalure, Tinahely and Shillelagh along the way, with the monastic settlement at Glendalough being one of its most celebrated highlights.
How long does it take to walk the Wicklow Way?
The Wicklow Way is most commonly walked over five to seven days, with many walkers breaking it into six or seven stages of between 15 and 25 kilometres. A seven-day itinerary is comfortable for most walkers of moderate fitness. The northern mountain sections, from Marlay Park through to Glenmalure, are the most scenic and challenging; the southern stretches through rolling farmland are gentler, with more road walking.
Difficulty level
The Wicklow Way is rated as moderate. It follows a mix of forest tracks, mountain paths, boreens and quiet country roads, reaching a maximum height of around 630 metres. The northern sections are more demanding, with several sustained climbs and descents through open mountain terrain. The southern sections are more rolling and forgiving. The trail is well waymarked throughout and straightforward to follow with a good map. Up to 24,000 people walk sections of the Wicklow Way each year, making it Ireland's busiest long-distance trail.
Accommodation along the way
Accommodation on the Wicklow Way is largely made up of small B&Bs, guesthouses and inns, with limited hostel options. Given the rural and mountainous nature of much of the route, availability in some locations is restricted, so advance booking – particularly for summer months – is strongly recommended, ideally three to six months ahead. Three Mountain Meitheal open shelters are dotted along the trail south of Glenmalure, providing basic free overnight accommodation for those happy to sleep out in more rustic conditions. Some accommodation providers are set a short distance off the trail – check pick-up options when booking.
The Western Way
Location: Oughterard to Bunnyconnellan via Co. Mayo | Distance: 125 miles (roughly) | Duration: 7 to 10 days
Taking in the spectacular counties of Galway, Mayo, and the edges of Sligo (depending on which iteration of the route you choose to take), is the mighty Western Way. As a predominantly coastal route skirting the western regions of Ireland, this hiking trail unsurprisingly crosses paths with the iconic Wild Atlantic Way. In this sense, you'll be walking with the sea by your side, and there'll be plenty of opportunities for a quick detour to the beach. Along the route itself, you'll start in Oughterard and head north past Maum and Drummin to Letterkeen, Ballycastle, and finally south-eastwards towards Bunnyconnellan in County Sligo. Famed for inspiring the poetry of W.B.Yeats, there's no better place to end your journey.
Where does the Western Way start and finish?
The Western Way begins in Oughterard on the shores of Lough Corrib in County Galway and ends near Bunnyconnellan on the County Sligo border, covering approximately 179 kilometres. From Oughterard the trail heads north through the Maumturks, into the Inagh Valley and on to Leenane at the head of Killary Harbour (Ireland's only fjord). It then enters County Mayo at Aasleagh, crossing the eastern slopes of Croagh Patrick before passing through Westport, Newport and the remote Nephin Beg mountains on its way north to Ballycastle and Killala.
How long does it take to walk the Western Way?
Walking the full Western Way takes approximately seven to ten days. The Galway section alone (Oughterard to Leenane) typically takes two to three days; the longer Mayo section adds a further five to seven days depending on pace. The trail can also be walked in sections, with the Galway stretch being particularly popular as a standalone multi-day walk through the heart of Connemara.
Difficulty level
The Western Way is a challenging trail and should not be underestimated. While much of the terrain consists of tarmac road, forest track and boardwalk, the route also crosses remote mountain passes and bogland, particularly through the Nephin Beg range in Mayo – one of the most isolated landscapes in Ireland. The Galway section is rated moderate; the Mayo section significantly harder. Good navigation skills, waterproof clothing and proper hiking gear are essential.
Accommodation along the way
Accommodation is limited in places, particularly through the more remote Mayo sections, and requires careful planning in advance. B&Bs can be found in the main towns and villages along the Galway stretch – Leenane, Maam and Oughterard all have options – but some overnight stops on the Mayo section involve a diversion of several kilometres off the trail to reach the nearest accommodation. The Connemara Hostel near Inagh is a well-regarded stop on the Galway section. Always check availability and book ahead.
Saint Patrick's Way
Location: Armagh to Downpatrick | Distance: 82 miles | Duration: 6 to 10 days
Saint Patrick's Way is a signed walking trail connecting some of the key Christian heritage sites relating to Saint Patrick (the primary patron saint of Ireland) between County Armagh and Downpatrick in Northern Ireland. In this sense, it's one of the less remote hiking trails, taking you through a combination of on and off-road trails in order to reach these sites of interest. Fear not, you'll get your fair share of natural beauty too, including the Mourne Mountains, the Murlough Bay Nature Reserve, and Tyrella Beach, to name a few. One of the key sights of interest, however, is the final resting place of Saint Patrick, situated in Down Cathedral in the city of Downpatrick.
Where does Saint Patrick's Way start and finish?
Saint Patrick's Way starts at the Navan Centre just outside Armagh city – one of Ireland's most significant archaeological sites and the ancient seat of Ulster's kings – and ends at Down Cathedral in Downpatrick, which marks the traditional burial site of Saint Patrick. Along the route the trail passes through Armagh, Scarva, Newry, Rostrevor, Newcastle and the Mourne Mountains before reaching Tyrella Beach and finally Downpatrick. Walkers can collect a Pilgrim's Passport at the start and have it stamped at 10 locations along the way, receiving a certificate on completion from the Saint Patrick Centre in Downpatrick.
How long does Saint Patrick's Way take?
The full 132-kilometre trail typically takes between six and ten days to complete, depending on pace and the number of rest days taken. It is divided into seven manageable sections ranging from around 15 to 38 kilometres each. The longest and most demanding section covers the Mourne Mountains between Rostrevor and Newcastle, and is best split over two days.
Difficulty level
Saint Patrick's Way is a moderate trail overall, with the significant exception of the Mourne Mountains section, which is challenging and requires proper preparation. The trail combines canal towpaths, quiet country lanes, forestry tracks and upland mountain paths, covering very varied terrain throughout. Waymarking is generally good, though walkers have noted that some sections – particularly around the Mournes – benefit from carrying an Ordnance Survey map for backup.
Accommodation along the way
There are several towns and villages along Saint Patrick's Way where accommodation can be found, including Armagh, Newry, Rostrevor and Newcastle. A mix of small hotels, B&Bs and guesthouses line the route. Armagh city offers the widest choice at the start of the trail; Newcastle – at the foot of the Mournes – is well served for both accommodation and resupply before the mountain section. Booking ahead is advisable, particularly for the Mourne sections in summer.
Causeway Coast Way
Location: Portstewart to Ballycastle | Distance: 31.5 miles | Duration: 2 days
Another fabulous hiking trail from Northern Ireland is the Causeway Coast Way. Though one of the shorter routes on this list, this trail still packs a punch, passing through the Causeway Coast Area of Outstanding Beauty (Ireland's only World Heritage Site) and several other Areas of Special Scientific Interest. Popular attractions include the Giant's Causeway (see picture), the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Dunluce Castle and the Bushmills distillery, the oldest licensed whiskey distillery in the world. The trail itself mostly follows the coastline, hugging craggy cliffs, isolated beaches, and large sections of The Ulster Way. Beginning in Portstewart and ending in Ballycastle, this is one hike you'll never forget.
Where does the Causeway Coast Way start and finish?
The Causeway Coast Way runs from Portstewart in the west to Ballycastle in the east, covering approximately 53 kilometres of the Antrim coastline. The trail passes through Portrush, Bushmills, the Giant's Causeway, Dunseverick and Ballintoy, hugging the clifftops for much of its length. It forms part of the broader Ulster Way and also overlaps with the International Appalachian Trail.
How long does the Causeway Coast Way take?
The Causeway Coast Way is most comfortably walked over two days, making it one of the most accessible long-distance trails on this list for those with limited time. A common split is Portstewart to the Giant's Causeway on day one, and the Causeway to Ballycastle on day two. Faster walkers can push through in a single long day, though the density of sights along the route makes this a shame.
Difficulty level
The Causeway Coast Way is moderate in difficulty. The terrain is predominantly coastal – clifftop paths, sandy beaches, rocky headlands and some road sections – with relatively modest elevation changes. The path is well maintained and clearly waymarked throughout. The main challenge is exposure to wind and rain on the open clifftops; appropriate waterproofs and sturdy footwear are essential whatever the season.
Accommodation along the way
Given the route's popularity and relatively short length, there is a good range of accommodation along the Causeway Coast Way. Portstewart, Portrush, Bushmills and Ballycastle all have hotels, B&Bs and self-catering options. The Giant's Causeway area has several nearby guesthouses, and Ballintoy and White Park Bay have options for those wanting to break the walk at mid-point. Booking in advance is recommended in summer, when the Causeway Coast is one of Northern Ireland's busiest tourism destinations.
South Leinster Way
Location: Kildavin to Carrick-on-Suir | Distance: 65 miles | Duration: 5 days
The South Leinster Way begins in the village of Kildavin, County Carlow, and crosses parts of Kilkenny before finishing in the town of Carrick-on-Suir in County Tipperary. Ascending an average of 1,600m (5,250ft), you'll come across peaks such as Mount Leinster (795m) in the Blackstair Mountains, and Brandon Hill (515m) by the river Barrow, as well as the valleys of Nore and Suir. Compared to the likes of the Wicklow Way or Saint Patrick's Way, the South Leinster Way is relatively less-trodden, and would suit a hiker searching for something less touristy. It's full of authentic Irish charm too, passing many remote villages you might not have thought to visit before.
Where does the South Leinster Way start and finish?
The South Leinster Way starts in the village of Kildavin in County Carlow – where it connects directly with the southern end of the Wicklow Way – and finishes in the market town of Carrick-on-Suir in County Tipperary. The route passes through Borris, Graiguenamanagh, Inistioge and Mullinavat, following the banks of the River Barrow and River Nore through much of the journey. The South Leinster Way forms part of the European long-distance route E8, which stretches all the way to Istanbul.
How long does the South Leinster Way take?
The South Leinster Way is typically completed in four to five days, covering around 100 kilometres across a mix of river valley, farmland and mountain terrain. It is most commonly walked west to east, from Kildavin to Carrick-on-Suir, and pairs naturally with the Wicklow Way for those looking to walk a longer, combined route from Dublin southwards.
Difficulty level
The South Leinster Way is moderate in difficulty. The terrain includes forest tracks, riverside paths, quiet lanes and some open hillside, with the main climbs over the Blackstairs Mountains and Brandon Hill providing the most demanding sections. Total ascent is around 1,600 metres. The trail is less well-trodden than the Wicklow Way, which means waymarking can occasionally be less reliable; carrying a detailed map is advisable. For those looking to build their hiking fitness, this is an excellent stepping stone before tackling longer, more demanding routes.
Accommodation along the way
Accommodation along the South Leinster Way is more limited than on the more established routes, reflecting its quieter, less touristy character. B&Bs, guesthouses and small hotels can be found in the main towns – Borris, Graiguenamanagh and Carrick-on-Suir being the best-served – but in some sections the nearest accommodation requires a short diversion off the trail. Planning your overnight stops carefully in advance is essential. For those who enjoy wild camping, this is one of the more feasible routes on which to do so, provided you seek landowner permission.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the longest walking trail in Ireland?
The Ulster Way is the longest walking trail in Ireland, covering 636 miles (1,024km) in a circular route around all six counties of Northern Ireland. It is also one of the longest waymarked trails in the British Isles. For those in the Republic, the Kerry Way – at around 130 miles – is the longest of the National Waymarked Trails in the south.
What is the oldest hiking trail in Ireland?
The Wicklow Way holds the distinction of being Ireland's oldest officially signposted long-distance walking trail. It was first proposed by Dublin hill-walker J.B. Malone in a series of newspaper articles in 1966, and formally opened in 1980. It remains one of the most popular routes on the island today, attracting up to 24,000 walkers per year on its busiest sections.
Is wild camping legal in Ireland?
Wild camping is not legally permitted in either the Republic of Ireland or Northern Ireland without the explicit permission of the landowner. Unlike Scotland, Ireland has no general right of responsible access to the countryside, meaning that camping on private land – which covers the vast majority of the island – requires prior consent. In practice, many walkers on long-distance trails ask landowners directly and are usually met with a warm welcome; the key is to ask, leave no trace, and respect the land. Some trails, such as the Wicklow Way, have designated open shelters that provide free basic overnight accommodation as an alternative. Always check the Leave No Trace Ireland principles before heading out.
What gear do I need for long-distance hiking in Ireland?
Ireland's weather is notoriously unpredictable, so preparation is everything. The non-negotiables for any long-distance walk on the island are a reliable waterproof jacket and trousers, a good pair of walking boots (waterproof and well broken-in), warm mid-layers, and a hat and gloves even in summer. For multi-day routes, a well-fitted rucksack, a map and compass (in addition to any GPS device), a first aid kit, and sufficient food and water for each day's stage are all essential. Those planning to camp will also need a three to four-season tent capable of handling Atlantic weather. Check out our full range of walking and hiking gear for everything you need before you head out.
What is the best time of year to walk long-distance trails in Ireland?
The best time to walk most Irish long-distance trails is between May and September, when daylight hours are longest, temperatures are at their most pleasant and the majority of accommodation and services along the routes are open. Late May and early June are particularly recommended – the trails are quieter than mid-summer, the days are long and the countryside is at its greenest. July and August bring the best weather but also the most competition for accommodation, so advance booking becomes essential. Shoulder season walking in April or October is possible but requires good waterproofs and preparation for shorter days and wetter conditions.