The best walks and hikes around Dublin

Many trails in the Dublin and Wicklow Mountains are dog-friendly, but policies can vary. In areas like the Wicklow Mountains National Park, dogs must be kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and livestock. Always check the specific regulations for the trail you plan to hike and be prepared to clean up after your pet.

For a relatively flat and engaging walk, the Five Canyon Loop is an excellent choice. It's an easy trail that's manageable for children. Another popular option is the Killiney Hill Park walk, which offers fantastic views without a strenuous climb, making it a rewarding experience for all ages.

Yes, several great hiking areas are accessible via public transport. The DART train service is perfect for reaching coastal walks like the Howth Cliff Walk and the Bray to Greystones path. Many bus routes also service the foothills of the Dublin Mountains, getting you close to trailheads for places like Ticknock Forest.

Most popular trailheads, such as those for the Great Sugar Loaf, Ticknock, and Glendalough, have dedicated car parks. However, these can fill up very quickly, especially on weekends and during good weather. It's always best to arrive early to secure a spot or consider using public transport where possible.

If you're new to hiking, the Rolling Hills Trail offers a gentle introduction with minimal elevation gain. The various routes in Phoenix Park are also ideal, providing easy walking on paved and unpaved paths. For a coastal option, the Portmarnock to Malahide walk is flat and scenic.

The weather in the mountains can change rapidly, regardless of the forecast in the city. It's essential to wear sturdy hiking boots with good grip. Dress in layers that you can add or remove, and always bring a waterproof jacket. Even on a sunny day, it can be windy and cool at higher elevations.

Yes, there are many excellent loop trails. The Tassajara Ridge Trail loop from Windemere is a great moderate option that brings you back to your starting point. The trails around Glendalough in the Wicklow Mountains also offer several well-marked loops of varying lengths, such as the popular Spinc and Glenealo Valley walk.

Coastal walks, like the famous Howth Cliff Walk, primarily offer stunning sea views on well-defined paths with moderate inclines. Mountain hikes, such as those in the Wicklow Mountains National Park, involve more significant elevation gain and can feature more rugged and uneven terrain. While both offer incredible scenery, the mountain trails generally require a higher level of fitness.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the incredible accessibility of wild landscapes so close to the city. The variety is a major highlight, from the breathtaking coastal views on the Howth peninsula to the feeling of remoteness in the Wicklow Mountains.

Absolutely. The hike to the Hellfire Club on Montpelier Hill is famous for its folklore and the ruins of a supposedly haunted 18th-century hunting lodge. For ancient history, the Fairy Castle Loop in Ticknock leads to a 5,000-year-old passage tomb at the summit of Two Rock mountain.

For panoramic views over the entire city and bay, the trails at Ticknock are unbeatable. The walk up to Fairy Castle provides a glorious vantage point. Killiney Hill also offers a classic, highly-regarded viewpoint looking north over Dublin and south towards the Wicklow Mountains.