Howth Bog of Frogs Loop - Purple

Starting from the picturesque village of Howth, just northeast of Dublin city, the Bog of Frogs Loop—marked by purple waymarkers—offers a rewarding 12 km (about 7.5 miles) circuit with roughly 400 metres (1,312 feet) of elevation gain. The trailhead is conveniently located near Howth Dart Station, making it easily accessible by public transport from Dublin city centre; simply take the DART train northbound to Howth, and the trail begins a short walk from the station, close to the harbour and the historic Howth Market. For those arriving by car, parking is available near the harbour and along Harbour Road.

Trail Overview and Navigation

The loop is well-marked with purple arrows, but due to the trail’s varied terrain and occasional fog, it’s wise to use HiiKER for real-time navigation and route tracking. The path combines paved village streets, rugged coastal tracks, and open heathland, so sturdy footwear is essential, especially after rain when sections can become muddy.

Scenic Highlights and Landmarks

Early in the hike, the route skirts Howth Harbour, offering views of fishing boats and the iconic Howth Lighthouse. As you ascend out of the village, the trail passes through mixed woodland and gorse, with the scent of wildflowers in spring and summer. At about 2 km (1.2 miles), you’ll reach the first panoramic viewpoint over Dublin Bay—on clear days, the Wicklow Mountains and even the Mourne Mountains in Northern Ireland are visible.

Continuing along the coastal cliffs, the path undulates above the Irish Sea, with dramatic drops and sweeping vistas. Keep an eye out for seabirds such as guillemots, razorbills, and occasionally peregrine falcons. Around the 5 km (3.1 miles) mark, you’ll pass the ruins of Martello Tower, a 19th-century defensive structure built during the Napoleonic Wars, now a striking reminder of the area’s strategic importance.

Nature and Wildlife

The trail’s namesake, the Bog of Frogs, refers to the wetland area you’ll traverse around the halfway point. This section is rich in biodiversity—listen for the croak of frogs in spring, and watch for butterflies and dragonflies flitting among the reeds. The heathland is dotted with heather and gorse, and in autumn, wild blackberries can be found along the path.

Final Stages and Return to Howth

After looping inland through open moorland and past small streams, the trail gradually descends back toward Howth village. The final stretch offers more coastal views and a gentle walk through residential lanes, returning you to the bustling harbour area. Here, you can reward yourself with fresh seafood from one of the many local restaurants or browse the weekend market stalls.

The Howth Bog of Frogs Loop is a varied and scenic hike, blending coastal drama, historical intrigue, and rich natural habitats, all within easy reach of Dublin.