Impressive cliffs, enchanting beaches, hidden coves and the coziest fishing villages – hikers looking for the wildest nature in Ireland should head to the Irish coast. While Ireland’s interior is enchantingly beautiful, it is the coastline that has the most dramatic scenery. In this blog post, we therefore introduce our favorite Ireland coastal walking routes. Will you explore the famous Cliffs of Moher on foot next year or listen to live music on the Dingle Peninsula? Will you hike through the mountains of Kerry or along the geological wonders of the Northern Ireland coast?
Dramatic Cliffs: Burren Way
Much of the Burren Way leads inland through a karst stone landscape. But the part of the route that follows the coastline is one of the most beautiful walking routes along the entire Irish coast. The dramatic Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland’s most popular attractions. Those who see up close how the steep cliffs plunge into the Atlantic Ocean will not forget these dramatic images easily. Other visual delights including enjoying views of the Aran Islands and Galway Bay in addition to spotting the different bird species that build their nests around this nature reserve.
Geological Wonders: Antrim Way
Some of the Irish coast’s most unique scenery can be found in Northern Ireland. The Giant’s Causeway is known for the hexagonal basalt pillars formed here millions of years ago by volcanic activity. The Antrim Way follows much of the Northern Ireland coastline. Impressive castles, views of Scotland and fascinating rock formations lie on this route. Those who can’t get enough of this unique Irish coastal walking route can enjoy a few extra miles of coastline on Rathlin Island!
Mountains and Seaside Towns: Kerry Way
The landscapes along the famous Kerry Way are varied, but also have one element in common: the Atlantic Ocean is never too far away. The most beautiful of the Irish coast is bundled in the route around the Iveragh peninsula. Mountains, cliffs, beaches and coves adorn the coastline of this region of South West Ireland. Highlights include the idyllic seaside town of Waterville, Rossbeigh beach and the moon-shaped bay at the colorful village of Sneem.
Conviviality and music: Dingle Way
The Dingle Way is debatably the prettiest country walking route on the Irish coast, but it is certainly the coziest! The Dingle peninsula is known for its authentic Irish villages with several pubs where traditional music performances take place. In addition to a joyful introduction to traditional Irish culture, visitors can learn about the island’s history. Dingle is full of archaeological monuments and historical artifacts.
Undiscovered Beauty: Sheep’s Head Way
This is one of the most beautiful walking routes along the Irish coast, but perhaps also one of the most unknown. The Sheep’s Head Way is a circular walk on the elongated Sheep’s Head peninsula. The tour leads over varied terrain, such as mountainous moors, quiet country roads and some forest trails. Walkers can enjoy views of the waters of the Atlantic Ocean from almost anywhere on the route.
