

Fill your heart with the great outdoors
Epic clifftop walks, cycles through showstopping scenery and the chance to enjoy nature in great company






There’s nothing quite like getting out in nature in Ireland. A slow, thoughtful journey on foot or by bike allows you to properly appreciate the rugged drama and wild beauty of the landscape. But more than that, walking and cycling here is a great way to connect with people and traditions. Because you never know who you’ll meet on the way!
To get you started, we’ve got all you need to know about walking and cycling routes. Escape from it all on the Wild Atlantic Way, hike through history in Ireland’s Ancient East, get off the beaten track in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands or weave along the majestic paths of the Causeway Coastal Route.
If you’re looking for the perfect activity break, you’ve come to the right place.
Pedal power
Ireland is a fantastic place for cyclists – whether you’re a Lycra-clad expert, or enjoy more of a leisurely cycle, there is something on offer for everyone. Ireland’s greenways, a network of trails built to be used exclusively by cyclists (as well as pedestrians), are the perfect way to enjoy a peaceful cycle amongst nature.
We recommend the Great Western Greenway, from lively Westport to Achill Island, a route that takes in majestic views on the west coast. The Waterford Greenway, which runs from Waterford city to the seaside town of Dungarvan along the rugged Copper Coast, is also one to add to your list.


Malin Head, County Donegal © Chris Hill Photographic
Hike your way to happiness
There’s no better way to enjoy the great outdoors than lacing up your boots and taking your time to enjoy your surroundings by walking. The island of Ireland has a richly varied landscape of beaches, bogs, and rolling green fields, and wherever you go there are lots of well-signposted, easy-to-do walks and hikes ready to get stuck into.
In Northern Ireland, try the Gobbins Cliff Path – a dramatic coastal walk you won’t forget! Wander along pathways and across tubular bridges that hang above sea caves and lashing waves – an invigorating experience that brings you in close contact with the elements. And of course, we couldn’t talk about Northern Ireland without mentioning the Giant’s Causeway! Tick this amazing UNESCO World Heritage Site off your list by choosing to visit via the Giant’s Causeway Clifftop Experience – the best way to experience the site.


Clifftop Experience, Causeway Coastal Route © 2023 Rob Durston
For gentler walks that still deliver breathtaking views – head to the Wild Atlantic Way which offers a whole host of walking routes, including the Beara Peninsula in West Cork and the Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry.
Hardcore hikers can opt for the Wicklow Way: a paradise of mountain trails. The ultimate challenge? That’ll be the tallest mountain on the island of Ireland, Carrauntoohil, in Kerry’s MacGillycuddy’s Reeks. The Slieve Blooms in counties Laois and Offaly are a hidden gem – peaceful peaks rising from the island’s central plains.
Here are some of our favourite hikes on the island of Ireland:


Lough Derg, County Tipperary © James Maher
Kayaking and canoeing
Glassy lakes, winding rivers, and thrilling sea kayaking: the island of Ireland is a fabulous place to explore by kayak or canoe.
Summing up Ireland’s network of waterways isn’t easy, but were the Lakelands to have a capital, Fermanagh would be it. The maze of bays, narrow channels of slow-moving water and innumerable islands around both Upper and Lower Lough Erne offer superb opportunities for people embarking on their first canoe or kayaking trip. And there are wonderful places to stay around the water: camping at Castle Archdale, island accommodation on Lusty Beg, and quirky bubble domes at Finn Lough.


Belle Isle Estate, County Fermanagh @ Belle Isle
For gentler walks that still deliver breathtaking views – head to the Wild Atlantic Way which offers a whole host of walking routes, including the Beara Peninsula in West Cork and the Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry.
Hardcore hikers can opt for the Wicklow Way: a paradise of mountain trails. The ultimate challenge? That’ll be the tallest mountain on the island of Ireland, Carrauntoohil, in Kerry’s MacGillycuddy’s Reeks. The Slieve Blooms in counties Laois and Offaly are a hidden gem – peaceful peaks rising from the island’s central plains.