Best Hiking Trails Around the World in Dublin, Ireland
1. Wicklow Way
Stretching over 127 km, this trail offers breathtaking views of the Wicklow Mountains and the Irish Sea.
- Variety of Terrain: The trail includes forests, valleys, and mountain passes.
- Rich History: Pass by ancient monastic settlements and medieval villages along the way.
- Accessibility: Easy to reach from Dublin, with several stages suitable for day hikes.
2. Dublin Mountains Way
A challenging 50 km trail through the Dublin Mountains, offering panoramic views of Dublin city.
- Challenging Terrain: Includes steep ascents and rocky paths suitable for experienced hikers.
- Natural Beauty: Hike through pristine forests, glens, and upland heaths.
- City Views: Enjoy spectacular views of Dublin city from the highest peaks.
3. Glendalough Monastic Trail
A picturesque 11 km trail surrounding the Monastic City of Glendalough, known for its stunning lakes and valleys.
- Historical Significance: Visit well-preserved monastic ruins dating back to the 6th century.
- Scenic Beauty: Take in breathtaking views of lush valleys, crystal-clear lakes, and rugged mountains.
- Accessibility: Easily reachable from Dublin and suitable for a day hike.
4. Howth Cliff Path
A scenic 10 km walk along the cliffs of Howth Head, with stunning views of Dublin Bay and the Irish Sea.
- Coastal Scenery: Enjoy breathtaking coastal views and spot seabird colonies.
- Fishing Village: Explore the charming fishing village of Howth with its fresh seafood restaurants.
- Accessibility: Easy to reach from Dublin city centre by DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit).
5. Powerscourt Waterfall
Ireland's highest waterfall located in the beautiful Powerscourt Estate, a short drive from Dublin.
- Natural Wonder: Admire the stunning 121-meter waterfall.
- Historical Estate: Explore the elegant Powerscourt House and Gardens nearby.
- Accessibility: Easily accessible by car, with a short walk to reach the waterfall.
6. Tibradden Wood
A woodland park in the Dublin Mountains offering a variety of walking trails and stunning views.
- Urban Forest: Experience an urban forest within easy reach of Dublin city.
- Scenic Views: Enjoy panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside.
- Nature Reserve: Discover a wealth of wildlife, including red squirrels and deer.
7. Lugnaquilla Mountain
Ireland's highest peak located in the Wicklow Mountains, offering a challenging hike with spectacular views.
- Challenging Terrain: A demanding hike suitable for experienced mountaineers.
- Natural Beauty: Hike through pristine forests, glens, and rugged mountain terrain.
- Summit Reward: Reach the summit for breathtaking views of the surrounding Wicklow Mountains.
8. Killiney Hill Park
A popular park in Dalkey offering panoramic views of Dublin Bay and the city.
- City Views: Enjoy spectacular views of Dublin city and Dublin Bay.
- Easy Access: Accessible by DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit) and a short walk from Dalkey town.
- Historical Landmarks: Visit nearby historical landmarks like Vico House and Dalkey Castle.
9. Bray to Greystones Cliff Walk
A scenic 7 km coastal walk between the seaside towns of Bray and Greystones.
- Coastal Scenery: Enjoy stunning views of the Irish Sea and spot seabird colonies.
- Accessibility: Easy to reach from Dublin city centre by DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit).
- Fishing Villages: Explore the charming fishing villages of Bray and Greystones.
10. The Sally Gap
A scenic mountain pass in the Wicklow Mountains offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
- Scenic Beauty: Take in breathtaking views of the Wicklow Mountains from the Sally Gap.
- Historical Interest: Learn about the history of the area, including the famine roads used during the Great Famine.
- Accessibility: Easily accessible from Dublin and suitable for a day trip.
11. Glendalough Valley Loop Walk
A peaceful loop walk around the beautiful Glendalough Valley, taking in the historic monastic city and stunning lakes.
- Historical Significance: Visit well-preserved monastic ruins dating back to the 6th century.
- Scenic Beauty: Take in breathtaking views of lush valleys, crystal-clear lakes, and rugged mountains.
- Accessibility: Easily reachable from Dublin and suitable for a day hike.
12. Sugar Loaf Mountain
A popular hill located in the Dublin Mountains offering panoramic views of Dublin city and surrounding countryside.
- Scenic Views: Enjoy spectacular views from the summit.
- Challenging Terrain: A demanding hike suitable for experienced hikers.
- Accessibility: Easily accessible from Dublin city centre by car or bus.
13. The Spinc and Glenealo Valley
A challenging hike in the Wicklow Mountains leading to panoramic views of the Glendalough Valley.
- Challenging Terrain: A demanding hike suitable for experienced hikers.
- Scenic Beauty: Take in breathtaking views of the Glendalough Valley and surrounding mountains.
- Accessibility: Easily reachable from Dublin as a day trip or overnight stay.
14. The Scalp Mountain
A challenging hike in the Wicklow Mountains offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
- Challenging Terrain: A demanding hike suitable for experienced hikers.
- Scenic Beauty: Take in breathtaking views from the summit of the Scalp Mountain.
- Accessibility: Easily reachable from Dublin as a day trip or overnight stay.
15. The Wicklow Way to Marlay Park
A section of the Wicklow Way leading from the picturesque village of Laragh to Marlay Park in Dublin.
- Scenic Beauty: Take in breathtaking views of the Wicklow Mountains and the Irish Sea.
- Historical Interest: Pass by historic monastic settlements and medieval villages along the way.
- Accessibility: Easily reachable from Dublin as a day trip or overnight stay in Wicklow.