Best Hikes Near Dublin, Ireland
Ireland has some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world, with amazing views that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. You’ll see many of these amazing views on hikes around Dublin.
One of the best things about hiking in Dublin is that there are trails for everyone. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, you’ll find a trail that’s right for you. The range of terrain means you can choose the perfect route depending on your fitness level and still enjoy amazing views. Late spring, summer and early autumn are the best time to visit Ireland.
When I worked abroad in Dublin for six months, I made plans to explore some of these hikes for my own enjoyment. The days I spent hiking around Dublin were some of the most memorable of my entire abroad experience. I was fortunate to have sunny weather, which made the hikes even more enjoyable.
If you’re planning a trip to Dublin, be sure to add hiking to your to-do list. You will not be disappointed. Breathtaking scenery and various trails will give you unforgettable memories.
Lace-up your boots and enjoy these 7 best hikes near Dublin.
Dalkey and Killiney Hill
Length: 2 km
Distance from Dublin: 40 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
This easy 2-kilometer trail near Dublin gives you stunning coastal and mountain views and a monument at the top. The scenery is truly breathtaking and is filled with wildflowers along the way. Just 40 minutes from the city, this is one of the best hikes near Dublin.
The Dalkey and Killiney Hill Trail is relatively easy and short, perfect for all ages and even kids. The entire journey can be done in just a few hours. Remember to wear comfy hiking shoes and pack a snack for the journey.
The main attraction of this hike is the Obelisk at the top of Killiney Hill. Built in 1741, it is a popular place for marriage proposals. At the top, you can see Dalkey Island, Wicklow Mountains and Sugarloaf Mountain.
After the hike, if you have time, visit Killiney Beach. Hawk Cliff and White Rock Beach are also in the area and worth checking out, especially around sunset if you’re lucky enough to be hiking at that time.
This Dublin hiking trail is free and accessible all year round. However, it gets especially busy on weekends. To avoid the crowds, try visiting mid-week.
A popular spot to start the hike is the Killiney Playground, which can be found on Google Maps.
Djouce and War Hill Trail via Wicklow Way
Length: 11 km
Distance from Dublin: 1 hour
Difficulty: Medium
The Djouce and War Hill Trails offer a stunning hilly trek with great views of Ireland’s natural inland landscape. From the top of the mountain, you can see for miles below, plus a breathtaking lake.
This hiking trail is moderate and about 11 kilometers long, so it is best done in one day. Bring some water, food and durable hiking boots as the trail is known to be muddy.
Some of the best sights to see along the hike include Powerscourt Falls and Liffey Head Bog. The waterfall is especially fun to see as it is the tallest in all of Ireland.
There are places to stop and grab a snack along the way, and most people choose to stop by Coffin Rock to eat. The hike is free, although there may be a small fee to park the car.
Although you can do this hike any time of the year, try not to go when it’s windy or rainy because the area is very open and you’ll get wet!
Click here to see where the car park is near the trailhead
Howth Cliff Walk
Length: 6 km
Distance from Dublin: 40 minutes
Difficulty: Easy (not for those who don’t like heights)
Howth Cliff Walk is a 6km walk along the beautiful seafront to the charming fishing village of Howth. Must say this is one of the best spots for hiking near Dublin. Besides the great hiking, Howth is a must-see in Ireland.
This trail is easy and has multiple routes of different lengths. Please keep in mind that it can be rocky and rough at times. You may have to climb a few small rock faces, especially if you want the best view of the coast.
If you don’t like heights, this may not be the hike for you as there is nothing between you and the cliff edge. It’s great for all ages, but if you bring kids, be careful about them getting too close to the edge. Pack a snack, water, and depending on the weather, a raincoat or sunscreen, as the trail is very open with no shade.
One of the main attractions of the walk is the Bailey Lighthouse, which is easy to see about halfway across. You can also visit County Wicklow from here. About three-quarters of the way, there is a snack break with a perfect spot for photos and a view.
If you forgot to bring food or plan to pick something up in Howth, check out Howth Market. It has a variety of food stalls, from candy and gelato to hot dogs.
The hike is free, but before you start, stop by the Visitor Center near Howth Harbor to grab a map. Although the trail is well marked, a map would be handy. You can hike this trail any time of year, but avoid windy days as it is very exposed.
Click here to see where the Howth car park is located since the trail starts nearby You can easily reach Howth Cliff Walk via Dublin Bus or Irish Rail.
Glendalough White Route
Length: 8.9 km
Distance from Dublin: 75 minutes
Difficulty: Medium
The Glendalough White Route in County Wicklow is a favorite among hikers for its beautiful lake views. The trail is 8.9 kilometers long, but Glendalough has many other trails for hikers of all levels. You can find the best hikes in Ireland here.
This trail takes you through mostly mountainous terrain, with some rocky and forested areas. It loops around the lake, offering better views as you climb 1,500 feet in elevation. It’s perfect for hikers who can handle a moderate-level trail—not too difficult but not as easy as the Coastal Cliff Walk.
Be sure to bring layers as it can get windy the higher you go. Don’t forget bug spray, rain gear, water, and a snack. The lake is the highlight of this hike with multiple viewpoints along the way. Keep an eye out for wildlife, too—you might spot interesting birds, lizards, and more!
There are spots along the trail where you can stop and have your snacks. The hike itself is free, but there is a small fee for parking. This hike is best done when the weather is not too rainy as the higher elevations are quite exposed.
Click here to see where the trail starts on Google Maps. Just 1 hour 15 minutes from Dublin, Glendalough is one of the most popular spots for hiking near the city. For more walks around Glendolph, click here.
Bray Head Cliff Walk
Length: 7 km
Distance from Dublin: 45 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Bray Head Cliff Walk is a beautiful coastal walkway about 45 minutes south of Dublin. It begins in Greystones and ends in Bray, or vice versa, you can choose which direction to start. This is one of the most fascinating hikes around Dublin.
Although it is over water, the Bray Head Cliff Walk is very easy. Hikers of all levels, including children and beginners, can enjoy it. If you’re not a fan of heights, don’t worry—there’s a fence between the hiking trail and the cliff face, making it completely safe.
The trail is only 7 km long, well marked and easy to walk. You won’t get lost because the route is straight. Just be sure to pack good walking shoes, water, and a snack. Good hiking boots with proper support are important for this trail. You can find great options for hiking gear, from boots to backpacks, on a variety of hiking gift lists.
About halfway through the hike, there is a viewpoint you don’t want to miss. This spot is not fenced, but you can walk to a flat area near the cliff face. It’s perfect for photos or quick breaks.
If you forget to bring a snack, you can pick one up near the trailhead at Greystones or at a visitor center along Brae Promenade. The best time to do this hike is in spring or summer.
Click here to see where the Cliff Walk usually starts in Bray. For a fun change, you can start the hike at Greystones, which you can find here and finish with beautiful views of Bray Promenade.
Dublin Mountain Loop Trail
Length: 19.6 km
Distance from Dublin: 30 minutes
Difficulty: Medium
The Dublin Mountain Loop Trail is a beautiful hike near Tallaght, a town just 30 minutes southwest of Dublin. This forest and mountain route is famous for its amazing historical monuments. But more on that later.
The trail is about 19.6 kilometers long and gets about 2,400 feet in elevation. This is a loop trail that you can complete in a few hours depending on your level of fitness and hiking experience. This moderate trail is best for hikers who have done a few hikes before.
Although the trail is well marked, it can be quite muddy. So, be sure to wear comfortable hiking boots. Bring snacks and water to boost energy along the way.
As you hike, look for historic monuments such as wedge tombs, passage tombs, and Stone Age and Bronze Age chambered cairns. If you want to learn more about these historic sites, consider doing this hike with a guide.
You can easily stop along the way to rest and refuel. This hike is best done on a clear day. Foggy weather can obscure beautiful views.
Click here to see where the trail begins. This is the most common starting point for hiking near Dublin and is a great place.
Hellfire Club Walk (Montpelier Loop Trail)
Length: 5 km
Distance from Dublin: 30 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
If you’re looking for a spooky hike, try the Hellfire Club Walk, also known as the Montpelier Loop Trail. This trail is about 5 kilometers long, making it one of the easiest and best hikes in Dublin The hike can be mostly hilly and muddy, so bring a water bottle and a rain jacket.
The Hellfire Club Walk is great for all levels of hikers and can even be done with kids. The path is easy to follow, and it has an interesting history. According to legend, Richard Parsons founded the Hellfire Club in 1735. The club was notorious for practicing black magic and devil worship. Keep an eye out for the ruins where they supposedly met!
Before Hellfire Club, R.J. Connolly, a member of the House of Parliament, had a hunting lodge at the top of Montpelier Hill. The lodge is still partially in ruins today, adding an extra layer of mystery to your trip.
This hike is free, and you have a few options to reach the top of the mountain. Both trails from the car park are good, but one will lead through the forest. Click here to see where the car park is located The trailhead is just beyond the car park.
Now you know the best places to hike near Dublin
These hikes around Dublin will leave you with unforgettable memories. Every hike offers amazing views, be it the gorgeous coastline or the fascinating ruins of the Hellfire Club. Most of the trails on this list are easy or moderate, so there’s something for everyone.
If you want a unique way to experience the beauty of Ireland, plan at least one hike during your trip to the Emerald Isle.