Best river hikes in Ireland
Go with the flow on these riverside adventures! From gentle streams to powerful rapids, these hikes offer constant companionship with the sound of rushing water.
Here are some great hikes to explore in Ireland.
Most popular hikes
Reviews for river hikes in Ireland
BigBur · reviewed about 3 years ago
I was lucky with the weather. Fully packed 17kg backpack and the full stretch in five days is a challenge but one worth to go for. 🤟
Iain Breen · reviewed over 2 years ago
I've recorded this trail! Part 1 - Shankill to Fairy Castle https://youtu.be/f2Ixi7rj7V0?si=nbVBLmfUiTi48nlY Part 2 - Fairy Castle to Glensamole Valley https://youtu.be/RQcrTKsivjA?si=cLqa7BDVzQlKpuiq The DMW was the first waymarked trail that I completed. I did it over 2 days - Shankill to Fairy Castle, and Fairy Castle to Tallaght. Transport for Day 1: handy public transport options. The Dart and Dublin Bus (145) service Shankill. There's a bus that only goes on weekdays from Glencullen to Dundrum after your obligatory pint and food in Johnnie Foxes! I recommend going past Glencullen on Day 1 and heading up to your well deserved views at Three Rock, before doubling back to Glencullen to exit. Transport Day 2: That weekday bus from Dundrum to Glencullen will get you right back, and you'll go all the way to the end in Tallaght, where you can get the Luas or Bus back to the city. Day 1 is lovely. The part from Shankill to Ballybetagh is great. Do be wary of the road section between Ballybetagh and Glencullen - it's long, there's no path, and some blind corners. However, the forests at Rathmichael, Carrickgollogan, Barnaslingan and Ballyedmunduff are incredible. Day 2 is a longer one,and has a frustrating mix of incredible mountain sections, gorgeous forests, and endless road sections! I don't recommend taking the spur to The Hellfire Club (unless you've never been) - it adds a bit more kms and time. Lots of downhill road sections heading towards Bohernabreena - this can be taxing on the knees, I'd recommend hiking poles here if you usually use them.
Steveo · reviewed almost 5 years ago
superb trail not to be be underestimated. plenty of altitude accumulated most days which can test you with a heavy pack and a 20km + day average. could get quite wet in the wetter times of year with soft boggy conditions underfoot. breathtaking views and prolonged hiking at height with stunning panoramic views of the peninsula bere island and further on clear days. decent mix of accommodation near tail stages with some careful planning helpful. would highly recommend to seasoned hikers.
Lough Ouler and Tonelagee Loop
Hannah · reviewed over 3 years ago
Definitely helps to have hiking boots, was very muddy underfoot for much of the trail. My poor friend fell several times in a pair of regular runners. Took us about 4 hours, with a 20 min lunch stop and we did a good bit of the start through thick undergrowth which I'm sure added a few minutes. Saw plenty of people with dogs on the trail. We did the trail in the opposite direction than indicated and enjoyed the riverside walk at the end, which is a nice relaxing way to end the hike
Mountain Mike · reviewed almost 5 years ago
consisting of two separate trails I had a really wonderful time. There are improvements needed and less road walking but overall it was a good experience.
Frequently asked questions for hikes 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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