Best nature hiking trails in Ireland
Get back to nature with these scenic trips, designed for those who want to immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of the great outdoors without too much hassle.
Here are some great trails to explore in Ireland.
Most popular trails
Reviews for nature hiking trails in Ireland
Declan · reviewed over 1 year ago
Loads of scree and shale for the last 150m to the top. Dangerous underfoot. Most of the white markers are missing and cloud came in and discretion the better part of valour we turned back. Try again another day.
Gillian Lupton · reviewed over 3 years ago
Love this loop looking down on Coumshingaun. Steep climb to begin with but once up to the height it’s all easy going. Can be treacherous in places so footwear with good grip is needed and take extra care in wet or cloudy weather. Bit of scrambling at times too. Has become very popular so get there early if going at the weekend. Parking for about 15 cars in the car park.
hiikerCEOPaul · reviewed about 2 years ago
Great trek, very cloudy at the top and very cold!! Show broke as we arrived at the last road section. Missed the very couple of KMs in recording.
Frequently asked questions for hiking trails in Ireland
Autumn (September to November) brings cooler temperatures and an increase in rainfall. However, it can be a beautiful time to hike in Ireland, as the landscapes transform with vibrant autumn colors. The weather can be unpredictable, so check forecasts and plan accordingly. Spring (March to May) offers similar conditions, with cool temperatures and occasional showers. It's a quieter time to explore the trails, and you can witness the country's lush vegetation come to life.
Winter (December to February) can be challenging for hikers due to shorter daylight hours, colder temperatures, and more frequent rain. However, some enthusiasts still enjoy winter hiking in Ireland, taking advantage of fewer crowds and the unique beauty of frost-covered landscapes. Safety is paramount during this season, so ensure you have appropriate gear and check local conditions before embarking on your adventure.
For more detailed climate information and to plan your hiking trips accordingly, you can visit Met Éireann, Ireland's National Meteorological Service: https://www.met.ie/
Remember to always prioritize safety and be prepared for changes in weather conditions, regardless of the season.
To learn more about Ireland's flora and identify specific species, resources like the National Biodiversity Data Centre provide valuable information and interactive guides: https://biodiversityireland.ie. Remember to respect and protect the natural environment by not picking or damaging any plants you encounter during your hikes, ensuring that future hikers can appreciate Ireland's diverse flora.
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