Where rugged coasts, boglands, and mountain ridges meet Ireland’s most dramatic Atlantic scenery.
The West of Ireland is where landscape and legend meet — a region of cliffs, quiet mountains, island-dotted bays, and timeless paths shaped by weather, culture, and the sea. From Connemara’s boglands and mountains (a designated National Park) to the Cliffs of Moher and the limestone wilderness of The Burren National Park, this is one of the best areas in Ireland for walking holidays.
This is a region made for walking holidays, with coastal trails, limestone uplands, pilgrim mountains, and remote linear routes linking villages, valleys, and wild terrain.
The West is equally rewarding for outdoor adventures such as Atlantic kayaking or coasteering, offering surfing beaches, kayaking routes, cycling greenways, and scenic headlands with Atlantic views in every direction.
It’s also ideal for cycling holidays, with routes such as the Great Western Greenway, quiet lanes around Clew Bay, and gentle roadside loops across Connemara and the Burren.
And when the day slows, you’ll find places to stay close to the coastline, mountains, and walking hubs — from Doolin and Westport to Clifden, Leenane, and villages across Connemara and North Clare.
Ireland’s most iconic coastal walk links Liscannor and Doolin along dramatic clifftops, while the Burren uplands offer inland hikes across surreal limestone pavements, wildflower meadows, and ancient tombs.
A wild, varied long-distance trail running from Oughterard to Ballina via Connemara, the Maumturk Mountains, Killary Harbour, and the Partry Hills. Ideal for multi-day, self-guided walking.
Climb Ireland’s most famous pilgrim peak, then explore Clew Bay by foot or bike. The area offers kayaking, island-hopping boat trips, coastal walks, and off-road routes with sweeping views.
A perfect base for scenic walking breaks, Connemara offers marked loop trails, rugged peaks, boardwalk paths, and some of Ireland’s best mountain-and-sea panoramas.
The West of Ireland is a place to move through, not just visit — perfect for slow, self-guided adventures and multi-day walking holidays across Ireland’s most vivid landscapes.
Top routes include the Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk, the Western Way, and Diamond Hill in Connemara National Park. These options cater to both short scenic walks and long-distance trekking.
Yes — hiking, cycling, kayaking, surfing, and wild swimming are all excellent here. Croagh Patrick, Clew Bay, The Burren, and Connemara provide diverse terrain and activities.
The best time for walking holidays is between May and September, when days are longer and the weather is milder. Spring and early autumn offer fewer crowds, dramatic light, and excellent walking conditions.
Yes. It’s fully waymarked and suitable for self-guided walking with basic planning for accommodation and transport.
Recommended bases include Doolin (for the Cliffs and Burren), Leenane or Clifden (for Connemara), and Westport (for Croagh Patrick and the Greenway). Each offers trail access, good accommodation, and plenty of local charm.
