Looking to escape the city and immerse yourself in Ireland’s wild landscapes? From the rugged Atlantic coastline to peaceful mountain valleys, weekend hiking holidays in Ireland offer the perfect balance of adventure and accessibility.
Whether you’re exploring sections of the Wicklow Way or soaking up coastal views along the Dingle Way, these short breaks prove you don’t need a full week to experience the very best of Ireland’s great outdoors.
1. The Wicklow Way (Wicklow Mountains)
- Why hike it? The Wicklow Way is Ireland’s oldest long-distance trail, but it also offers fantastic weekend sections. The highlight is Glendalough, where you can explore the monastic city and hike loops around the Upper and Lower Lakes. It’s accessible from Dublin and gives a taste of wild mountains and deep valleys in just two days.
- Start & Finish: Begin at Glendalough and finish in Glenmalure or Roundwood.
- Time to Hike: 1–2 days.
2. The Kerry Way (Iveragh Peninsula)
- Why hike it? While the full trail is long, short sections around Killarney National Park make for ideal weekend hikes. Wander past lakes, Muckross House, Torc Waterfall, and ancient oak forests before climbing into open mountain valleys with sweeping views.
- Start & Finish: Start in Killarney and finish at Black Valley or return loop via Muckross.
- Time to Hike: 2 days.
3. The Dingle Way (County Kerry)
- Why hike it? The Dingle Way’s coastal paths and beaches are perfect for shorter trips. Spend a weekend exploring the stretch from Dingle town to Dunquin, taking in wide Atlantic vistas and Mount Brandon looming above.
- Start & Finish: Start in Dingle and finish in Dunquin.
- Time to Hike: 2 days.
4. The Beara Way (West Cork and Kerry)
- Why hike it? For a weekend, base yourself in Glengarriff or Castletownbere and hike circular loops along the Beara Way. The Allihies to Eyeries section is particularly stunning, with colourful villages and ocean views.
- Start & Finish: Allihies to Eyeries.
- Time to Hike: 1–2 days.
5. The Western Way (County Galway & Mayo)
- Why hike it? The Connemara section of the Western Way offers a rugged weekend escape. From Leenane, follow the Maam Valley through boglands and mountains, experiencing remote landscapes without needing a full week.
- Start & Finish: Start in Leenane and finish in Maam Cross.
- Time to Hike: 2 days.
6. The Slieve Bloom Way (Counties Laois & Offaly)
- Why hike it? At 75 km total, the Slieve Bloom Way is perfect for shorter adventures. Weekend hikers can do loops from Glenbarrow or Kinnitty, enjoying waterfalls, forest tracks, and panoramic ridges without heavy climbs.
- Start & Finish: Circular loop from Glenbarrow.
- Time to Hike: 1–2 days.
7. Sheep’s Head Way (County Cork)
- Why hike it? The Sheep’s Head peninsula is compact, making it one of the best weekend hikes in Ireland. Trails hug the coastline, with lighthouses, rugged cliffs, and quiet villages. It feels remote yet is easy to explore in just two days.
- Start & Finish: Bantry to Kilcrohane (loop back options available).
- Time to Hike: 2 days.
8. The Burren Way (County Clare)
- Why hike it? Perfect for a weekend, the Burren Way includes dramatic sections along the Cliffs of Moher and across limestone pavements. Expect wildflowers, archaeology, and breathtaking Atlantic views.
- Start & Finish: Start at Doolin, hike along the Cliffs of Moher, and finish in Liscannor.
- Time to Hike: 2 days.
9. The Bluestack Way & Slieve League (County Donegal)
- Why hike it? For a weekend, focus on Slieve League’s dramatic cliffs. Shorter routes lead to viewing points or longer ridge hikes along the Pilgrim’s Path for adventurous walkers.
- Start & Finish: Start in Teelin village and loop to Slieve League cliffs.
- Time to Hike: 1–2 days.
10. Connemara & Aran Islands (County Galway)
- Why hike it? Connemara’s shorter loops around Diamond Hill or Killary Fjord make great weekend hikes, with mountain and sea views packed into half-day or full-day treks. Pair it with a day trip to the Aran Islands for cliff walks and ancient forts.
- Start & Finish: Diamond Hill loop in Connemara National Park, or Kilronan on Inis Mór for Aran Islands.
- Time to Hike: 1–2 days.
Weekend Hiking Holidays Ireland – FAQs
What are the best weekend hiking holidays in Ireland?
Some of the best options include sections of the Wicklow Way, Kerry Way and Dingle Way. These trails offer manageable distances, stunning scenery and great accommodation options nearby, making them ideal for 1–2 day hiking trips.
Can you do a hiking holiday in Ireland over a weekend?
Yes — many of Ireland’s long-distance trails can be broken into shorter sections, allowing you to enjoy a 1–2 day hiking experience without committing to a full multi-day trek. Routes like the Beara Way and Sheep’s Head Way are especially well-suited to weekend breaks.
Where are the best coastal hiking weekends in Ireland?
For dramatic coastal scenery, head to:
- Dingle Peninsula
- Sheep’s Head Peninsula
- Slieve League
These locations offer cliff walks, ocean views and quieter, less crowded trails.
What is the easiest weekend hiking route in Ireland?
The Slieve Bloom Mountains and sections of the Western Way are great for beginners. They offer gentler terrain, looped routes and shorter distances while still delivering beautiful scenery.
Do you need to be experienced for a hiking holiday in Ireland?
Not necessarily. Many weekend hikes are suitable for beginners or intermediate walkers, especially looped routes or lower-elevation trails. However, mountain routes and remote areas require good fitness, navigation skills and preparation.
What should you pack for a weekend hiking trip in Ireland?
Essentials include:
- Waterproof jacket and layers
- Proper hiking boots
- Snacks and water
- Map or GPS
Ireland’s weather can change quickly, so preparation is key for a safe and enjoyable trip.
When is the best time for a hiking holiday in Ireland?
Ireland can be hiked year-round, but:
- Spring & autumn: fewer crowds, mild weather
- Summer: longer daylight hours, ideal for coastal routes
- Winter: quieter but more challenging conditions
Each season offers a different experience depending on your preference.
Are there guided weekend hiking holidays in Ireland?
Yes — many companies offer guided or self-guided hiking weekends, often including accommodation, luggage transfers and local expertise. These are ideal if you want a more relaxed, organised experience.
What makes Ireland ideal for weekend hiking breaks?
Ireland’s compact size, well-marked trails and variety of landscapes make it perfect for short hiking holidays. You can experience mountains, coastline, forests and lakes all within a few hours’ travel, making weekend escapes both easy and rewarding.
Are weekend hiking holidays in Ireland suitable for solo travellers?
Yes — Ireland is considered a safe and welcoming destination for solo hikers. Many trails are well signposted, and towns along popular routes provide easy access to accommodation and food options.