Ireland Coast to Coast Hiking

Ireland Coast to Coast Hiking Itinerary:

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• Day 1 Welcome to Ireland where our adventure begins in Dublin. Travel to the village of Bray for a seaside hike up Bray Head before dinner.

  Our trip begins today in Dublin, Ireland. Arrive at the Dublin airport this morning by 8:30 a.m. and transfer to our hotel in Bray for our welcome orientation. This afternoon, jump right in and join us for a guided hike along the beautiful and well-worn coastal path from Greystones to Bray and to the overlook atop Bray Head, the start of the Wicklow Mountains. This pleasant stroll is an ideal introduction to the outstanding ocean, cliffside and mountain views that await you in the days to come. Alternatively, you can return to Dublin city for a self-guided tour– the myriad of possibilities includes an historic walking tour, ambling down Grafton Street and visits to the National Museum, Trinity College, or Christchurch Cathedral, to name just a few. Or just spend the afternoon relaxing in the colorful seaside resort of Bray. Dinner included.

  Hiking: 5-6 miles, 2-3 hours. Terrain: Coastal path, short hill walk. (Alternate – city streets in Dublin.)

  Example: Greystones to Bray Coast Walk – 5.4 miles, 194 ft. ascent. Bray Head, 800 ft. ascent.

  Drive distance, average time: 5 miles, 10 minutes.

• Day 2 Explore the Wicklow Mountains on foot and visit the remarkable monastic "city" at Glendalough.

  Just south of Bray we head straight into the heart of the spectacular Wicklow Mountains, towering granite massifs that form Ireland's largest upland region. Today's highlights include a visit to one of Ireland's most sacred sites along with an invigorating hike in Wicklow Mountains National Park. We begin with an interpretive tour of the remarkable monastic 'city' at Glendalough, founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century. Much beloved for centuries, Glendalough is one of the finest examples of a medieval Irish monastery and marvelous reminder of a uniquely Irish way of life. Afterwards, our hike takes us along the Wicklow Way and high into the Glenlo Valley to experience firsthand the beauty and solitude that St. Kevin himself sought there, with stunning views of the beautiful lakes of Glendalough far below. Naturally, the legends about St. Kevin are always close at hand in such a rare atmosphere. Afterwards we return to Bray for our second night there. All meals included.

  Hiking: 7-9 miles, 4-6 hours. Terrain: Green roads, hilly trails, and boardwalk.

  Example: Glendalough & The Spinc – 8.1 miles, 1,774 ft. ascent.

  Drive distance, average time: 40 miles round trip, 1¼ hour.

• Day 3 Discover historic Kilkenny en route to the renowned Rock of Cashel, where we'll enjoy a guided tour with a local expert.

  Leaving Bray we journey to our next magical destination – Cashel, one of Ireland's most celebrated and beloved Heritage towns. Along the way, our four county odyssey is choc-a-bloc with delightful and amazing diversions. While still in Wicklow, we visit the picturesque village of Avoca and its famous weaving mill, the oldest in Ireland. In Co. Carlow we stop to decipher the massive Browneshill Dolmen, Ireland's largest megalithic tomb. Then we lunch in Kilkenny, Ireland's most medieval city, where the heritage of the once-powerful Earls of Ormonde is still evident, embodied in the likes of the magnificent Kilkenny Castle and St. Canice's Cathedral. Afterward, we drive onwards to Cashel, the day's ultimate objective. We'll discover the Rock of Cashel, possibly the most important heritage site in Ireland, on a guided tour with local experts. You'll have added time to explore this majestic monument to ancient Irish kings and the country's most powerful clergy, followed by a pleasant walk about the town to other significant heritage sights. All meals included.

  Hiking: 2-3 miles, 1-2 hours. Terrain: City streets, paved pathways, gentle grades.

  Example: Cashel History Ramble – 1.5 miles, 80 ft. ascent.

  Drive distance, average time: 131 miles; 3 hours.

• Day 4 Traverse the Beara Peninsula and hike in lovely Gougane Barra, a scenic mountain valley and the former hermitage of St. Finbarr.

  As we continue westward from Cashel to the Beara Peninsula, our passage is punctuated with an equal mixture of fascinating Irish Heritage Sites and awe-inspiring forest walks. We begin the day with a short jaunt to the nearby town of Cahir where we'll explore the magnificent Cahir Castle, perhaps the best-preserved Norman castle complex in Ireland. From this Co. Tipperary stronghold, we venture onwards, skirting Cork City and heading into the dramatic countryside that is West Cork. We stop for lunch and a healthy afternoon hike in Gougane Barra, a remarkable mountain valley that once served as the hermitage of St. Finbarr, Cork's 6th century patron saint. Walking there among towering pines, clear mountain streams and steep heather clad slopes can be both calming and energizing. With Finbarr's Oratory perched on the edge of a glacial lake in the midst of it all, there is definitely a mystical air about this secluded glen. Later we arrive on the Beara Peninsula where a brief stop in the quaint town of Glengarriff offers additional walking opportunities. Finally, we'll continue on to the lively seaport of Castletownbere where we stay for the next two nights. All meals included.

  Hiking: 4-6 miles, 3-4 hours. Terrain: Castle grounds; forest paths and steep mountain trails.

  Example: Gougane Barra Forest Walk – 4.4 miles, 1,267 ft. ascent.

  Drive distance, average time: 143 miles; 3¼ hours.

• Day 5 Hike one of the most remote and lovely sections of the Beara Way.

  These next two days we explore the rugged beauty of the Beara Peninsula, one of Ireland's best-kept secrets! Today, as weather allows, we make our way toward the very end of the peninsula for a variety of headland walks that include some of the most remote stretches of the Beara Way. One route option will take us to the very tip of the mainland and is a prime spot for whale and dolphin watching. Another brings us into the far-flung village of Allihies, the village furthest from Dublin in all of Ireland and a former 19th century copper-mining boomtown. All walks are sure to yield breathtaking views of amazing cliff and coastal scenery, idyllic Irish farmsteads, and a host of historical sites. When storms threaten, we've other Beara walks that are more protected but are still awash in history and grand seascapes. Overnight back in Castletownbere. All meals included.

  Hiking: 7-10 miles, 6-7 hours. Terrain: Waymarked hills and headlands – open hiking over exposed heath land; rolling hills with some steep sections; minimal road walking.

  Example: Garinish Loop and Crow Head – 10.1 miles, 1,708 ft. ascent.

  Drive distance, average time: 28 miles round trip, 1 hour.

• Day 6 Explore another of the Beara Way's most idyllic stretches with a local guide, who shares his stories about growing up in rural Ireland.

  We start our day with a short drive to one of the finest walks on the Beara Way, a route that features incredible panoramas, ancient stone circles, and old oak woodlands. There we meet a colorful local guide who takes us on a hike through sheep pastures, peat bogs, and green rolling hills, all the while sharing with us tales of growing up and living in such an isolated and traditional outpost. In the afternoon, choose from a variety of additional walks in the award winning nature park at Gleninchaquin, a remote mountain valley dominated by a magnificent waterfall, or in nearby Glanmore Valley. At the end of the day we celebrate the day's activities together over terrific pub grub at an authentic Irish country pub overlooking Kenmare Bay. Our lodgings for the next two nights are just a few minutes away in Kenmare, one of Ireland's most friendly and decorated "Tidy Towns." All meals included.

  Hiking: 4-5 miles, 3-5 hours. Terrain: Waymarked walk over rough, rolling hills; can be boggy. Also, developed trails over a variety of terrain.

  Example: Beara Way to Cloonee Lakes – 2.5 miles, 585 ft. ascent.

  Drive distance, average time: 32½ miles; 1½ hour.

• Day 7 Hike the Kerry Way through one of the most beautiful areas of Killarney National Park.

  Today we head through Molls' Gap in the majestic mountains on the Ring of Kerry to Killarney National Park, home to Ireland's largest remaining preserve of native woodlands. There we'll sample parts of the Kerry Way, another of the country's finest long distance walking routes. And since we're blessed with many excellent options, once again we'll choose the most appropriate walk for the day that's in it. One beloved section of the Kerry Way, on the Old Kenmare Road, will lead you through old Oak forest, along centuries-old droving roads, past waterfalls, and into remote mountain valleys with wild and spectacular scenery. Another unique Kerry Way walk leads to the ancient ruins of Muckross Abbey, down tree covered serpentine paths beside the shores of Lough Leane and Muckross Lake, and into secluded and rare Yew woodlands. A further alternative is the ascent of Torc Mountain, a hike that combines Oak woodland, mountain valleys, a majestic waterfall and an unparalleled bird's eye view of the Lakes of Killarney. Needless to say, you'll quickly discover why Killarney has been a Mecca for outdoor pursuits since the Victorian era. We also start early on this day, so upon your return to Kenmare you'll still have time to enjoy the town's many shops and festive atmosphere. All meals included.

  Hiking: 4-8 miles, 4-5 hours. Terrain: Trails, gravel roads, boardwalk and paved paths. Elevation ranges from relatively flat to mountainous.

  Example: Kerry Way on the Old Kenmare Road – 7.3 miles, 1,596 ft. ascent.

  Drive distance, average time: 35 miles round trip, 1 hour.

• Day 8 On our way to Dingle, explore coastal footpaths and castle ruins.

  We complete our Coast-to-Coast journey as we ramble to Dingle, the true gem of County Kerry. The Dingle Peninsula is a treasure trove of ancient history and awe-inspiring panoramas, and the streets of Dingle beckon with a delightful array of unique and wonderful shops, cafes and pubs. But getting there is half the fun, so on our westward journey we typically take the time for a couple of superb walking diversions. One is at Inch Strand, a magnificent three-mile long beach abruptly jutting out into Dingle Bay at the foot of the Slieve Mish Mountains. Another is on the Dingle Way in the parish of Minard, where we can explore the likes of a ruined castle, holy well and storm beach. We arrive in Dingle town in time for lunch, and after checking in to our cozy B&B, the afternoon and evening are free for you to explore on your own. Of course we're always thrilled to recommend the best places to eat, shop and play. Want to walk more? There are terrific scenic walks along Dingle Harbour that start right in town. And don't forget that we'll have two nights to enjoy the legendary nightlife in Dingle's many pubs, known round the world for great "Ceól agus craic" – music and merriment. Breakfast included. Lunch and dinner are on your own.

  Hiking: 4-7 miles, 3-5 hours; Terrain varies with some possible steep, exposed trails.

  Example: Inch Beach – 3 miles, 0 ft. ascent.

  Drive distance, average time: 68 miles; 2 hours.

• Day 9 Experience Dingle town and choose from a variety of exceptional hikes showcasing the highlights of the Dingle Peninsula.

  The Dingle Peninsula is a geographic outpost, the westernmost part of Ireland, boasting some of the most stunning landscapes found anywhere. It's also a "Gaeltacht" or center of Irish-speaking culture, and a repository of antiquity, including thousands of archeological sites. But the peninsula is so much more than just a sum of its parts, and today we'll show you how it can all add up to fantastic, penultimate day out. Our formula begins with an archeology tour of some of the peninsula's most famous sites including ancient Ogham stones, ring forts, castles and early Christian settlements. We combine that with a series of carefully selected walks designed to showcase Dingle's breathtaking coastal headlands, beaches and mountains, all the while interweaving Dingle's lively history and folklore as we go. At the end of the day we complete the equation with a flourish as we gather at one of our favorite award-winning restaurants in Dingle for our farewell dinner, a fitting conclusion to our adventure. All meals included.

  Hiking: 3-6 miles, 3-4 hours. Terrain: Open hiking over exposed headlands; rolling hills with some steep sections.

  Example: Ballydavid Head – 3.3 miles, 792 ft. ascent.

  Drive distance, average time: 38 miles round trip, 1½ hours.

• Day 10 Our Ireland Coast to Coast Hiking Adventure ends today in Shannon.

  After breakfast we depart Dingle for the drive to Shannon Airport for your flight home. We arrive at the airport around 10:30 a.m., in time for afternoon flights. Enroute we pass through Tralee, where you can connect with Irish Rail or Bus Éireann should you need transportation back to Dublin or other eastbound destinations in Ireland. Following our stopover at Shannon Airport, as need arises we continue on to our final disembarkation point – the bustling market town of Ennis, the 'capital' of Co. Clare. With a vibrant nightlife, fantastic traditional music scene, festive atmosphere and medieval heritage, this pedestrian friendly town is an ideal location to prolong your stay that extra day, or use as a departure point for further adventures in the west of Ireland. You can rest assured that wherever we say our good-byes, you won't leave without our best wishes and a "Slan abhaile!" ringing in your ears. Breakfast included.

  Drive distance, average time: 110 miles, 2¾ hours.

Although we do our best to adhere to the schedule listed above, this itinerary is subject to change for numerous reasons beyond our control.

Please check with us before purchasing your airline tickets to ensure your trip has the necessary minimum number of participants required to operate. 

If you are traveling alone and specifically request single accommodations, you will be asked to pay the full single supplement noted on the trip itinerary.  If you wish to share accommodations, we will assign you a roommate if one is available.  If a roommate cannot be found, you will be asked to pay a reduced single fee which is one- half of the full single supplement.  Please be advised that there are a limited number of single accommodations available.

Airport group transfer for those arriving in Dublin on the morning of Day 1 (subject to certain timetable), hotel/guesthouse accommodations, all meals as noted in the daily itinerary, transportation to and from each day's hiking, entrance fees to parks and the following sites: Cahir Castle, and Gleninchaquin Park; experienced guide, tour information and luggage transportation.

Air transportation to Ireland and any private airport transfers resulting from arrivals/ departures outside of the normal timetable, 1 lunch and 1 dinner, travel insurance, excess baggage charges, guide gratuities, alcoholic beverages, and other items of a personal nature.

This trip is rated Moderate [3] and will be enjoyed by anyone who is physically fit and likes to hike.  Prior hiking experience is recommended.  The hikes vary from 5-9 miles (4-6 hours) with elevation gains to 2000 feet. Some sections may be steep and rocky. Walking, jogging, hiking and biking to condition are highly recommended.  Try to include some hill hikes as well.

Weather conditions may vary from day to day.  Rain showers with intermittent sunshine are common.  In some mountainous areas it can be windy and cold even during summer months.  Daytime temperatures usually range from 60° - 75° F, with nighttime temperatures dropping to 55° - 60° F.  Having good waterproof raingear and boots that are strongly water repellant is important as weather is very changeable and some hikes lead through bogs and marshy areas.

This trip is subject to the booking information set forth in the current REI Adventures Reservation Information. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A full gear list and pre-departure information is sent upon sign-up. We highly recommend the purchase of travel insurance through REI Adventures. If coverage is purchased at the time of your initial reservation, the 'Pre-existing Conditions Exclusion' is waived (certain exclusions apply).

We look forward to having you join us for the trip of a lifetime! Why wait? Space is limited, reserve your adventure today.

The key to staying comfortable while on an active trip is layering. To get maximum comfort with minimum weight, you need versatile layers that mix and match to create the right amount of insulation, ventilation and weather protection. Try to bring only what is necessary—this will help you and the field staff.

Gear Checklist

Things to Consider

• Please remember to always pack essential items such as your passport, money, eyewear, a change of clothing, hiking boots and medications in your carry-on baggage, in case your luggage is delayed.
• Wind chill can be a significant feature of this trip. Air temperatures are not very cold, but when the wind is constant, you can be robbed of body heat quickly. Wind and rain gear is very important.
• Cotton is wonderful in warm weather. However, once it becomes wet, it will drain your body heat. Bring wool or synthetics such as Capilene®, MTS® and Thermax®.
• Always test your layers before a trip. Your outer layer should fit easily over the inside ones without binding and bunching up.
• With changes in elevation and terrain on many hikes, the use of trekking poles with baskets is highly recommended.
• Make sure boots are broken-in and bring moleskin, Second Skin® or Blister Block® for foot treatment. Thin liner socks worn under regular hiking socks may minimize the risk of blisters (the liner sock should be silk or synthetic).
• The use of washcloths is not necessarily common in Europe, so hotels and guesthouses oftentimes do not provide them as a bath accessory. You may wish to bring your own in a resealable Ziploc bag.