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5 Irish Mountain Trails with Amazing Views
Nothing beats mountaintop views after a long, rewarding trek on a clear day. A hike up these hills is sure to remind you why Ireland is renowned for its second-to-none vistas and rolling green landscapes.
Here are some hill and mountain trails, rated as moderate, that will lead you to some spectacular views...
Errisbeg Mountain ~ Connemara, Co. Galway
Errisbeg Mountain as seen from across the bay
Errisbeg offers a challenging climb to its modest summit of 987 ft. The views from the top are amongst the best in Connemara, with Galway Bay to the South, Roundstone bog and stunning views of The Maumturk and Twelve Ben Mountains to the North.
Allow at least 3 hours to complete this walk over some tough terrain at times. Strong, waterproof boots with a good grip are required, and remember to pack for changeable weather. Treat your feet to a dip in beautiful Dogs Bay before you head back.
Distance: 5.4 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Corrin Hill Trail ~ Fermoy, Co. Cork
The magnificent Corrin Cross looking out over the surrounding countryside
The wooded hill of Corrin is a prominent landmark for thousands of motorists that pass it each day on the M8 Cork to Dublin motorway. The beautiful, imposing stone cross at the summit has stood here for almost 90 years.
The hill rises from the surrounding plain to a height of 222 metres (728 feet) at the summit, from where there are spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. It is the site of one of Ireland's most ancient settlements, with a ring fort that dates back to the Iron Age.
Distance: 4.8 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Dublin Mountains Loop Trail ~ Near Tallaght, Co. Dublin
A steep rocky trail in the Dublin Mountains
The Dublin Mountains Loop Trail is a 19.6 km loop trail located near Tallaght, which features a great forest setting and is rated as moderate. This is a longer trail suitable for those who are looking for a day in the countryside while staying near the Capital.
This hike is ideal for experiencing the many different aspects of Ireland's natural habitat. You start on a paved/gravel path through the mossy woods that takes you around to a mountain side trail with great views of the City and the Bay.
Distance: 19.6 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Knockma Hill Walk ~ Caherlistrane, Co. Galway
Stone steps leading up a Galway hill
Knockma Hill stands at 170m high and is the most prominent landmark in Caherlistrane in County Galway. It is the legendary burial place of Queen Maeve and, in folklore, Knockma was the seat of Finnvara, King of Connacht fairies. The many ancient remains, including cairns, underground passages and forts, are evidence of a major place of settlement stretching back to pre-Christian times.
Knockma hill and the surrounding woods are the most accessible of the hikes listed here, however the climb is still rated as moderate so do come prepared for a challenging walk. The ancient cairns that greet you at the summit make it well worth the effort.
Distance: 3 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Torc Mountain Hike ~ Killarney, Co. Kerry
Torc Mountain is an extremely popular and scenic moderate 2-2.5 hour (7.5 km) walking route to the summit of Torc Mountain (535m) with spectacular 360-degree views of Killarney town and lakes, Muckross House, the Killarney National Park and the McGillicuddy's Reeks, County Kerry in the south-west of Ireland.
The walk starts at the upper Torc Mountain car park for ease of access. The trail includes a 1.5 km walk that takes you across the Owengariff river before you reach the signposted summit trail. Don't forget to check out Torc Waterfall at the base of the mountain before leaving the area!
Distance: 7.5 km
Difficulty: Moderate
