Hiking adventures in Ireland

Walking and hiking are an absolutely essential way of getting truly in touch with a landscape, and the only real way to get yourself truly off the beaten track, and far from the crowds. It’s a wonderful way to really experience a destination, and this is as true in Ireland as it is anywhere.

And walking holidays in Ireland are about so much more than rolling green fields and wild coastlines, even if you do have them in abundance. Whether you’re venturing on a hike into the dark, ancient woods near Sligo, or along the Wild Coastal Way, there’s always a cosy pub and a great craic with the locals waiting at the end of a long day.

Hiking in Ireland represents a chance to see the things that most tourists don’t, ancient monasteries crumbling into forest clearings, isolated fishing villages that cling onto generations-old traditions, hidden mountain peaks that offer panoramas over glistening, deep blue lakes on the Emerald Isle.

A walking or hiking holiday in Ireland is about finding these hidden gems, these off the beaten track locations, and with a local guide, passionate about their home and the trails that wind through the hills, you’ll be sure to find the very best locations and the most thrilling walks.

You can relax and soak up the scenery, let go of worrying about directions or places to stay, and simply drink in the experience of exploration.

Where to experience walking holidays in Ireland

Head to the south coast and the wild cliffs that are battered by the swirling Atlantic Ocean in County Cork, for an adventure along the world-renowned Wild Atlantic Way, where you’ll travel back in time to discover ancient Celtic Ireland and medieval castles, and sample the legendary Irish hospitality in quaint fishing villages including Castletownbere, Killarney and Dingle.

Alternatively, head up to County Sligo and experience the laid back, slow pace of life of this surfing mecca, that also offers stunning trails and hikes into the old forests and hills and the famous Irish craic until late into the night.

Wherever you head for your walking holiday in Ireland, one thing is guaranteed, you’ll create memories that last a lifetime.

Who are our Irish walking holiday guests?

Experienced hikers, people looking for a way to get in touch with the landscape, and those who just fancy getting out into the fresh air; absolutely anyone and everyone is welcome on our Irish walking holidays.

Your guides will be experts in judging the lengths and difficulties of each hike, and the experience will be totally tailored to you, so that you can simply relax and enjoy the feeling of getting your legs pumping, filling your lungs with fresh, clean air, and discovering the hidden gems far from the tourist trail.

All you need to bring is lots of energy, a willingness to discover new things and a love for the outdoors. Sound like you?

Why choose Not In the Guidebooks?

We’re passionate about helping people find the most amazing experiences on their travels, through meeting local people, exploring new places, and discovering alternative activities that make holidays special. We do this by carefully selecting partners in countries around the world who are experts in their local area, sourcing interesting people who can guide you through immersive experiences.

We’ve got local partners all across Ireland, from the wild coastlines of County Cork in the south, all the way to the pristine beaches and stunning forests of County Sligo. Choosing a Not In The Guidebooks holiday in Ireland means you don’t have to choose between a beach holiday or an activity-filled break, you can get the best of both worlds with a unique trip.