View MapView Map
HomeWild Atlantic WayThe best hikes on the Wil ...
The best hikes on the Wild Atlantic Way
Uncover some of the best views in the country while on a hike along the Wild Atlantic Way.
Wild Atlantic Way colour logo
Discover some of the best hikes in Europe on the Wild Atlantic Way, from circular and linear treks for beginners to challenging hikes for the more advanced walker. With views of towering cliffs, surf on deserted beaches and islands, explore the trails along this beautiful route.

It doesn't get any better than hiking these seven great trails along the Wild Atlantic Way.

  • 1.
  • 2.
  • 3.
  • 4.
  • 5.
1Donegal

Appalachian Trail

The Appalachian Trail is a linear trail in the most northwestern corner of Ireland, covering more than 100km. Start at the Sliabh Liag (Slieve League) cliffs and head along the Bluestacks Way before finishing at Ballycastle in Antrim. Rocky, boggy and remote, enjoy 360-degree panoramas of scenic landscapes of cliffs and beaches along the coastline. 

People hiking the Sliabh Liag (Slieve League) cliffs in Donegal
Start your hike of the Appalachian Trail at the Sliabh Liag (Slieve League) cliffs.


Glencolmcille Loop

Discover the Glencolmcille Loop, a 35km stretch of impressive coastline. Check out the views on the Drum Loop and the shorter Tower Loop, both of which start and end at the Fire Station in Glenn Cholm Cille (Glencomcille) village. Embark on your hike and spot nods to the area's rich history, such as the Megalithic tombs and historical ruins.

Ruins on the Glencolmcille Loop in Donegal
Roam the ruins on the Glencolmcille Loop.
2Sligo

Lough Easkey Loop

Soak up the amazing scenery of the 6km Lough Easkey Loop with its lakeshores and green countryside. Hike the 90-minute trail, cross the bridge over the Easkey River and loop back to the trailhead. Admire the lake’s clear waters while walking through the expansive bogland and enjoy the peace of the remote landscape.  

The Easkey River in Co Sligo
Ramble along the Easkey River.
3Mayo

Wild Nephin National Park

Set on 15,000 hectares of land filled with rocky terrain, scenic landscapes and wildlife, the Wild Nephin National Park makes for a lovely hike. Take to the leafy green Letterkeen Loops, ranging from 6km to 12km and for experienced walkers, there’s the challenge of the 40km Bangor Trail. Appreciate this remote park and the beautiful views of the Nephin Beg Mountains.

A hiker sitting beside Lough Feenagh along the Nephin Beg Mountains in Mayo
Spare an extra moment for the views of the Nephin Beg Mountains.
4Clare

Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk

The Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk is a 20km coastal cliff path that brings you all the way from Liscannor to Doolin, through the Cliffs of Moher. Roughly 5.5km of the famous trail closed in August 2024 for updates and improvements, including a 5km stretch south of the cliffs between Doolin and Hags Head and a 500m section north of the cliffs themselves. You can still access the trail via open sections north and south of the cliffs and from Doolin directly, where you can take in views of the Árainn (Aran Islands) and Galway Bay in the distance. Take caution when walking this route and always heed any weather warnings – stick to the main paved path and avoid the unpaved sections on the cliff edge, as there are no barriers.

Afterwards, head to lovely Doolin for its traditional Irish music, craic and lively atmosphere. 

An old cottage along the Doolin Cliff Walk in Co Clare
Hear the crashing waves along the Doolin Cliff Walk.
5Cork

Beara Way

Composed of a 242km circuit along the southwestern edge of the Beara Peninsula, the Beara Way trail begins and ends in the small village of Glengarriff. Brimming with archaeological and historical sites, the peninsula is shrouded in mystical legends and is known for its beaches, fishing harbours and offshore islands, which are worth a visit themselves.  

To round off the day, wander down the narrow roads that lead you to some of the county’s finest eateries.

People walking along the Beara Peninsula in West Cork
The Beara Way is a bucket list hike for any hiker.


Sheep’s Head Way

If you're looking for a spot to explore on a fun hiking getaway, check out Sheep’s Head Way in West Cork, one of the most remote hiking spots on the Wild Atlantic Way. Although there are plenty of trails along this route, the best views are found along the main 172km loop of the peninsula. Tucked right into the southwestern corner of the country, the trail begins and ends in lovely Bantry, taking in beautiful sights such as Sheep's Head Lighthouse, deserted famine settlements and heathered fields. 

If you're looking for a shorter hike that doesn't skimp on impressive scenery, try the Lighthouse Loop, a 4km segment off the main trail which will lead you straight to the famous landmark. 

People walking on Sheep's Head Trail in West Cork
Discover the bounty of sights found on Sheep's Head Way.
Start planning your trip to the Wild Atlantic Way

The best way to maintain the beauty of Ireland's hiking trails is to leave them how we found them. Learn more about how you can leave no trace before you explore some of the best hikes on the Wild Atlantic Way

More to discover
Mail Icon SVG

Subscribe now to receive destination inspiration, travel tips, upcoming events and all the best things to do around Ireland.