Ireland a Paradise for Hill Walkers

Ireland is a paradise for hill walkers. The Emerald Isle is an apt description for this beautiful island with its mild, maritime climate producing a lush green landscape. World-renowned for its friendliness and hospitality, Ireland even has its own word for a good night of talk, music and fun – ‘craic’.

With a rich history which has inspired some of the world’s greatest writers, poets and musicians, Ireland has a unique culture too. Walkers have a variety of terrains to choose from, but Ireland is not a country of natural extremes, so almost everyone can find their perfect patch of this island heaven.

Hiking Trails

Ireland’s longest hiking trail The Kerry Way in the country’s south west is popular with walkers seeking a variety of walking conditions amidst world-famous mountains and Ireland’s oldest national park.

The wonderfully named MacGillycuddy Reeks - also known as the Black Stacks - are Ireland’s highest range, but while the more adventurous will want to tackle the Hewitt’s (peaks over 2,000 feet), the Kerry Way sticks to the lower slopes, offering spectacular views and wild splendour without the need for a full blown expedition.

Killarney town is the start and end of the trail and a wonderful place to visit in its own right. It is one of Irelands’ top tourist towns and has been attracting visitors since the 18th century. The nearby Killarney Lakes, remote and mountain-ringed in the Black Valley, will have photographers in raptures. Innisfallen, the monastic island in Lough Leane; was occupied by early Christians in the 7th century and is reputed to be where Brian Boru, the great Irish king was educated.

The Killarney National Park was gifted to the Republic in the 1930s and is now home to the nation’s last herd of native red deer.

Mountains, lakes, rivers, waterfalls, the ocean, archaeology and lively towns, the Kerry Way has it all. With trails to suit the beginner or more adventurous hill walkers, this is a wonderful way to discover some archetypal Irish landscapes, cuisine and hospitality.

There are a great selection of Walkers Welcome B&B accommodation in Killarney. Homes that have been approved by Failte Ireland that specifically caters for the avid walker. These B&Bs provide suitable secure drying and storage facilities for outdoor walking gear along with shelves, hangers and wall hooks. Emergency rain gear is also provided. Your hosts have an interest in walking and therefore are able to provide you with information on the best hiking routes, times, distances and suitability of walks.