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Hiking trails & Routes
Ireland
Leinster
Dublin

Donabate to Portrane Cliff Walk

Easy

4.3

(3)

36

hikers

Donabate to Portrane Cliff Walk

01:35

6.21km

20m

Hiking

Hike the easy 3.9-mile Donabate to Portrane Cliff Walk for coastal views, historic Martello Towers, and a refreshing escape near Dublin.

Last updated: February 26, 2026

Waypoints

A

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

1

596ย m

Ladies Beach Portrane

Highlight โ€ข Beach

Fabulous well-sheltered beach with great views toward Howth and Lambay Island. The beach was once the private beach of Lady Sophia Evens, and other ladies of Portrane House, which is where it gets its name.

Tip by

2

803ย m

Cliffs Between Donabate and Portrane

Highlight (Segment) โ€ข Viewpoint

Stroll along the fantastic clifftops between Donabate and Portane and discover islands, towers, forests, mountains, and beaches.

Tip by

3

2.17ย km

Tower Bay Beach

Highlight โ€ข Beach

Lovely intimate beach offering deep water swimming and fantastic views.

Tip by

4

3.01ย km

Portrane Beach Caves and Rock Arch

Highlight โ€ข Beach

Portane Beach is often referred to as 'Paradise Beach' because of the beautiful shells, stones, and caves to discover.

Tip by

B

6.21ย km

End point

Parking

Loading

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

3.64ย km

1.91ย km

230ย m

223ย m

193ย m

Surfaces

3.64ย km

2.04ย km

292ย m

223ย m

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Elevation

Elevation

Nothing selected โ€“ click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

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Weather

Powered by Foreca

Wednesday 6 May

13ยฐC

8ยฐC

31ย %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 12.0ย km/h

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This route was planned by komoot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I park to access the Donabate to Portrane Cliff Walk?

Free parking is available at both the Donabate and Portrane ends of the walk. The trail is conveniently located just 30-35 minutes from Dublin City Centre, making it an accessible option for a day trip.

Is the Donabate to Portrane Cliff Walk suitable for beginners or families?

Yes, this trail is considered very easy and accessible, making it ideal for beginners, families, and those with buggies. It features minimal elevation gain and a generally friendly path.

What is the terrain like on the cliff walk?

The path is a lovely cliff-top route, mostly composed of gravel and asphalt sections. It's generally smooth and easy to navigate, offering a comfortable walking experience.

What can I see along the Donabate to Portrane Cliff Walk?

You'll enjoy breathtaking coastal scenery with views of Lambay Island, Howth Head, and Ireland's Eye. Notable features include historic Martello Towers, limestone cliffs, and sheltered coves. You can also visit Ladies Beach Portrane, Cliffs Between Donabate and Portrane, Tower Bay Beach, and the Portrane Beach Caves and Rock Arch.

Is the trail dog-friendly?

Yes, the Donabate to Portrane Cliff Walk is generally dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially due to the cliff-top nature of the path and to respect other walkers and local wildlife.

What is the best time of year to visit this cliff walk?

The trail can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and summer offer the best conditions for wildflowers and seabird spotting. The views are stunning in any season, but clear weather will enhance the experience of the coastal vistas.

Are there any permits or entrance fees required for this walk?

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access the Donabate to Portrane Cliff Walk. It is freely accessible to the public.

Does the trail connect with other paths?

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Donabate - Portrane Cliff walk and Lady's Walk. While the main cliff walk is about 2.5km one-way, a longer loop option of approximately 12.5km can be explored by incorporating inland roads.

Are there any unique attractions or hidden gems along the route?

Absolutely! A unique attraction at Tower Bay Beach in Portrane is The Sea Sauna, offering wood-fired saunas and cold plunges into the Irish Sea. The trail also features historic Martello Towers and natural rock formations like The Camels Hump, The Healing Shink Well, and The Bleeding Pig, each with local tales.

How long does it take to complete the Donabate to Portrane Cliff Walk?

The main cliff walk is approximately 6.2 kilometers (3.8 miles) round trip, which typically takes around 1 hour and 35 minutes to complete at a moderate hiking pace. If you opt for the longer 12.5km loop incorporating inland roads, it could take 3-4 hours.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see?

Along the route, you can expect to see various seabirds soaring above the cliffs and hear the soothing sounds of waves. The area's natural beauty supports local flora and fauna, especially during warmer months.

Nearby routes

Moderate

4.8

3,241

Howth Bog of the Frogs Loop

03:29h

12.6km

220m

Trail Reviews

Billy
September 21, 2024, Donabate - Portrane Cliff Walk

Lovely walk started in the Donabate beach carpark all the way into Portrane and back across the cliff path. Beautiful, fresh day for it.

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