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Best historical hiking trails in County Dublin
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Best historical hiking trails in County Dublin

Take a stroll through time! These trails lead to fascinating historical landmarks, where every step takes you deeper into the stories of the past and leaves you with a new appreciation for history.

Here are some great trails to explore in County Dublin.

Most popular trails

1

Medium

Howth Bog of Frogs Loop

County Dublin, Ireland · star 5.0 (71) · 12.4 km · Est. 3 hrs 6 min

2

Easy

Dublin Mountains Loop Trail

County Dublin, Ireland · star 5.0 (37) · 17.2 km · Est. 4 hrs 16 min

3

Medium

Fairycastle Loop

County Dublin, Ireland · star 5.0 (65) · 5.8 km · Est. 1 hrs 31 min

4

Easy

Dun Laoghaire to Killiney Hill Park Loop

County Dublin, Ireland · star 5.0 (34) · 13.6 km · Est. 3 hrs 7 min

5

Medium

Two Rock to Tibradden Loop

County Dublin, Ireland · star 5.0 (29) · 9.3 km · Est. 2 hrs 21 min

6

Easy

Poolbeg Lighthouse

County Dublin, Ireland · star 5.0 (16) · 10.8 km · Est. 2 hrs 12 min

7

Easy

Portmarnock to Malahide Trail

County Dublin, Ireland · star 5.0 (35) · 11.0 km · Est. 2 hrs 17 min

8

Medium

Barnaslingan and Carrickgollogan Loop

County Dublin, Ireland · star 5.0 (30) · 5.2 km · Est. 1 hrs 18 min

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Reviews for historical hiking trails in County Dublin

noel avatar

Howth Bog of Frogs Loop

noel 路 reviewed almost 3 years ago

star star star star star

Natasha Isabelle avatar

Dublin Mountains Loop Trail

Natasha Isabelle 路 reviewed over 4 years ago

star star star star star

Easy to follow - Interesting trail with a combination of forestry tracks, open moorland path and country lanes. Great views over to Dublin City, Dublin Bay and Wicklow mountains. Worst bit was the last km or so on quite a busy road, felt a little unsafe with no path.

avatar

Fairycastle Loop

WildwoodTracker97 路 reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Lovely walk mainly uphill, would recommend. Beware it鈥檚 quite exposed, so might be preferable to do this loop when it鈥檚 not too windy. HiiKER app was great, hard to follow the maps/markings in tiknock without the app.

Iain Breen avatar

Dun Laoghaire to Killiney Hill Park Loop

Iain Breen 路 reviewed over 2 years ago

star star star star star

Lovely loop for a clear summer's day. Perfect for a family day out and some snacks at the top of the hill.

Mark Finlay avatar

Two Rock to Tibradden Loop

rudedoc 路 reviewed almost 3 years ago

star star star star star

One of my favourite walks close to the city. Good conditions under foot, great views of the city. Took a while to get a parking spot down around Zippit. It was very busy today. Lots of changes to the landscape recently. Did it with two ten year old. Took us 2 hours and 37 minutes. 9.42KM.

Frequently asked questions for hiking trails in County Dublin

What is the climate like for hiking in Ireland?

Ireland's climate is influenced by the North Atlantic Drift, which keeps temperatures mild throughout the year. Summers (June to August) are generally the warmest months, with average temperatures ranging from 15掳C to 20掳C (59掳F to 68掳F). It's a great time for hiking, with longer daylight hours and generally drier conditions. Be prepared for occasional rainfall and pack layers to adapt to changing weather.

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 脡ireann, 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.

Do I need a permit to hike in Ireland?

In Ireland, most hiking trails do not require permits for individual hikers. However, certain areas, such as national parks and nature reserves, may have specific regulations. To obtain permits or gather information about restricted areas, contact the relevant agencies or organizations. The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) manages Ireland's national parks, while local county councils oversee regional parks and trails. For more details, visit the NPWS website: https://www.npws.ie/

Is wild camping allowed in Ireland?

When it comes to wild camping in Ireland, it's important to note that it is generally not legal unless you have obtained permission from the landowner. While there may be instances where it's tolerated, it's crucial to respect private property and seek alternative options for overnight stays. It is advisable to plan your hikes in areas where there are designated campsites or seek accommodations such as hostels, B&Bs, or campgrounds. Respecting the environment, leaving no trace, and following the principles of responsible hiking are essential to preserve Ireland's beautiful landscapes for future generations to enjoy.

Are there mountain rescue services in Ireland?

In the event of an emergency while hiking in Ireland, it is crucial to contact the appropriate agencies for mountain rescue. The primary organization responsible for coordinating mountain rescues is the Irish Coast Guard. Dialing 112 or 999 will connect you to emergency services. Additionally, the Mountain Rescue Ireland (MRI) provides assistance and support. For more information, visit the Irish Coast Guard website: https://www.gov.ie/en/policy-information/eda64a-the-irish-coast-guard/

Are there dangerous plants in Ireland?

While hiking in Ireland, hikers can expect a diverse range of flora to enhance their outdoor experience. The country is renowned for its lush landscapes, featuring beautiful wildflowers, mosses, ferns, and heather. Woodlands, such as Killarney National Park and Glendalough, showcase native trees like oak, birch, and holly. Coastal areas, like the Burren, boast unique floral displays with rare orchids and vibrant coastal plants. Exploring Ireland's flora adds an extra dimension to the hiking experience.

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.

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in Ireland?

When hiking in Ireland, it's important to be aware of the diverse insect and animal life you may encounter. In wooded areas, keep an eye out for midges and ticks, particularly during warmer months. Along coastal paths, you might spot seals, seabirds, and even dolphins. The Burren region is known for its unique flora and fauna, including butterflies and wild goats. Remember to respect the wildlife and their habitats, keeping a safe distance and not feeding them. If you want to learn more about the specific species you may come across, the National Parks and Wildlife Service website provides useful information. Stay curious and enjoy the wonders of nature while hiking in Ireland! Link: National Parks and Wildlife Service website

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