Outdoor Odysseys

Walks of Wonder: Ireland’s Enchanting Paths and Woodlands from Dublin to Donegal

Ireland’s rich landscape offers a wealth of walking opportunities, from ancient pilgrim paths to modern greenways. The country’s Christian heritage is particularly evident in its historic pilgrim routes, which have seen a remarkable revival since the establishment of Pilgrim Paths Ireland in 2013. These ancient ways include the Kerry-based Cnoc na dTobar and Cosán na Naomh, Cork’s St Finbarr’s Pilgrim Path, the cross-county St. Declan’s Way connecting Waterford and Tipperary, Wicklow’s St. Kevin’s Way, Kildare’s Brigid’s Way, Mayo’s Tóchar Phádraig, and the Donegal-situated Lough Derg path. Enthusiasts can earn a Pilgrim Certificate (Teastas Oilithreachta) by completing five of these routes. For those seeking guidance, John G. O’Dwyer’s comprehensive guidebook, “Pilgrim Paths in Ireland – From Slemish to Skellig Michael”, provides detailed maps and directions.

The National Trails Office has accredited numerous walking trails throughout the country. In County Limerick, the Broadford & Ashford Walking Trails showcase eight well-marked paths, including the notable Ashford to Broadford Way and its reverse route. These trails are enhanced by informative storyboards detailing local history and biodiversity, with comprehensive information available in the Broadford biodiversity report.

County Cork boasts several remarkable walking destinations. Drimoleague, rightfully known as “The Walker’s Junction of West Cork”, offers six Heritage Walkways where the Sheep’s Head Way intersects with St Finbarr’s Pilgrim Way. The Heritage Walkways cater to various skill levels, presenting diverse landscapes from quaint village scenes to dramatic hilltop vistas, woodland paths, and riverside routes. The historic St Finbarr’s Pilgrim Way spans 37 kilometres, traditionally walked over two days, following the 6th-century path of its namesake saint. The southern Mizen Peninsula features the extensive Fastnet Trails network, comprising seven trailheads and 28 distinct walks.

Coillte, Ireland’s state forestry company, maintains forests nationwide with an open forest policy that welcomes visitors whilst promoting Leave No Trace principles. These managed woodlands provide spaces for various outdoor activities, including walking, cycling, and camping, whilst protecting valuable wildlife habitats.

Northern Ireland offers equally impressive walking opportunities. County Antrim’s Glenariff Forest Park, situated in one of the renowned Antrim Glens, provides trails of varying difficulty, showcasing spectacular views of the glen, waterfalls, and coastline. The Fermanagh Lakelands present various walking options, with the Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail being particularly notable for its scenic views.

Tipperary’s walking highlights include The Vee, which marks the beginning of the 13-kilometre Tipperary Heritage Way to Ardfinnan. The county also features the Suir Blueway, suitable for walking, cycling, or paddling. Dublin caters to both urban and nature enthusiasts, with city walks and the popular Howth Cliff Walk in its surrounding area.

The Slieve Bloom Mountains, straddling counties Laois and Offaly, stand as some of Europe’s oldest mountains. Beyond walking and hiking trails, they offer diverse activities including horse riding, mountain biking, and fishing. In County Donegal, the challenging Sliabh Liag Cliff Walk rewards brave hikers with breathtaking scenery, though it requires a steady nerve and proper walking equipment.

For those seeking modern walking infrastructure, Ireland’s greenways utilise repurposed railway lines and canal towpaths, creating safe routes for walkers and cyclists. Walking enthusiasts can find detailed information through resources like Irish Walks, Out More NI, Walk Northern Ireland, The Ireland Walking Guide, MountainViews and Discover Ireland, at least some of which categorise trails by region and difficulty level, helping visitors plan their walking adventures effectively.