Ireland North to South Hiking
Dublin, Ireland to Dublin, Ireland
Highlights:
- Hike the most stunning 70 miles of Ireland's famous Wild Atlantic Way and summit age-old Croagh Patrick
- See the rugged Cliffs of Moher and the awe-inspiring basalt columns of the Giant's Causeway
- Soak up Irish culture and history from our knowledgeable local guides
Important Trip Details:
This trip is perfect for people who enjoy and are capable of 5 – 10 miles of hiking per day, over a period of several hours. There are days that are hilly, and you’ll even climb a mountain. The terrain is varied, with time spent walking on beaches, footpaths, through fields and grassy meadows, and it is often wet underfoot.
Minimum Age: 18
- Adventure and Active
- Hiking/Trekking
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| Additional Offers |
ID: 8380699
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ID: 8380696
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ID: 8380697
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ID: 8380698
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ID: 8380701
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ID: 8380703
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ID: 8380699
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ID: 8380696
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ID: 8380697
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ID: 8380698
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ID: 8380701
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ID: 8380703
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Day: 1, duration: 3
Bishop's Gate Hotel
Located within the historic Cathedral Quarter of Derry City, the Bishop's Gate Hotel was built over 100 years ago and has maintained its traditional Edwardian architecture style. Each guestroom has modern amenities, such as satellite TV, a coffee maker and Wi-Fi, and has elegant accents to keep with the hotel's heritage. Sip champagne at The Wig bar or tea in the Hervey Library to unwind at the end of the day.
Day: 2, duration: 2Ballyliffin Lodge & Spa
In a castlelike building on a village road, this family-run hotel is features en suite bathrooms, satellite TV, and tea and coffeemaking equipment. WiFi is complimentary in public areas. There's a restaurant with an airy formal dining room, plus a laid-back bar/lounge serving light meals.
Day: 4, duration: 2Westport Plaza Hotel
Located close to the town of Westport, the elegant Westport Plaza Hotel features spacious rooms, with a Jacuzzi bath and separate shower in the en suite bathroom. Savor sophisticated European food at the Merlot Restaurant, take a quick break at the Plaza Bar over cocktails, indulge in one of Spa Sula's massages or facials, or unwind in its thermal suite.
Day: 6, duration: 2Park House Hotel
Sitting in the heart of Galway City right next to Eyre Square, Park House Hotel is a stone's throw away from many attractions. The guest rooms are quiet, clean, and comfortable and The Park House is one of Galway's most popular restaurants, offering full Irish breakfasts and scrumptious dinners. An extremely hospitable staff make guests feel right at home.
Day: 8, duration: 2Dingle Skellig Hotel & Spa
Situated on the beautiful Dingle Peninsula, surrounded by rolling hills and the calm harbor, Dingle Skellig Hotel has offered travelers comfort, warm hospitality, and great service since 1969. After a day on the trail, wind down with a drink at Blaskets Bar or the Cocktail Bar. The Coastguard Restaurant serves locally sourced seafood overlooking the bay and the mountains.
Day: 8, duration: 2Dingle Benners Hotel
This traditional manor house hotel offers airy, classic rooms featuring vintage-style furnishings and en suite bathrooms. Each comes with free Wi-Fi, satellite TV, and tea and coffeemaking facilities. Room service is offered.
Day: 10, duration: 2Great Southern Killarney
Opened in 1854, the Great Southern Killarney retains its elegant Victorian style and old-world charm. The luxurious rooms showcase a full spectrum of plush perks. Surrounded by delightful gardens, it serves locally sourced food at the Garden Room Restaurant, casual food and fine whiskies at The Punchbowl Bar, afternoon tea in the Grand Foyer, and drinks in the Killarney Wine Rooms.
Brendan O'Connor
As an outdoor enthusiast, Brendan had a spoilt upbringing growing up in Killarney where the 22,000-hectare Killarney National Park was literally his very own backyard. He spent his youth out hiking, cycling, and boating in the park. Some years later, he went into ‘exile’ to Cork city for work. He was happy enough in Cork but something was always missing and it was photography that re-awakened Brendan’s love of the great outdoors. It was only then that it dawned on him – “what all these poets were on about.”
Kevin Cronin
From his earliest memories, Kevin has been drawn to exploring the remote, the wild and the isolated. Sharing these places with others on foot or bike brings him the greatest joy. The change of seasons, the abundance of nature, the sun, the wind and the rain are his oxygen. Hidden valleys, stone walls and ancient roads race in his blood. A quiet pint, fresh crab claws, a beautiful ballad or a story well told feeds his soul. Kevin has walked, cycled and explored much of Europe’s most amazing backdrops but is always drawn back to the wilds of Ireland.
Liam Fahy
Liam has loved Ireland's wild places since he was first introduced to them in the scouts as a teenager and has been exploring and enjoying the Irish wilderness ever since then. His first experience of guiding or leading others in the outdoors was as a scout leader where he realized that he enjoyed introducing others to the environment that he knew and loved as much as he enjoyed exploring it himself. Since then, Liam has been leading, guiding and instructing in the great Irish outdoors with youth groups, the Irish Defence Forces and as a wilderness guide.
Inclusions
Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
Snacks and water between meals
Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
Baggage transfers and porterage
Exclusions
International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and guide-drivers
Travel Protection Program
Personal expenses
Reason #01
MT Sobek has been operating world-class adventures in Ireland for decades and this is the perfect hike along Ireland's legendary Wild Atlantic Way.
Reason #02We've isolated the most beautiful 70 miles of the route to create an approachable and well-paced itinerary that you won't find anywhere else.
Reason #03Our local expert guides provide spontaneous opportunities to experience authentic pub life, live traditional Irish music, and a culture of camaraderie.
ActivitiesModerate hikes through iconic landscapes, taking in archaeological sites, galleries and craft shops, paired with heartwarming Irish hospitality.
LodgingFrom elegant historic hotels with gorgeous grounds to modern city hotels jam-packed with amenities, all featuring warm, welcoming service.
ClimateThe climate is actually rather mild, with an average yearly temperature around 50°F. Expect a bit of rain during your trip.
Who will meet me on arrival?Plan to arrive at the Dublin Airport (DUB) by 8:00AM on Day 1. After customs, you will be met by your guide or an MT Sobek representative and transferred to Derry, where the trip will start.
Is this really a hiking trip?Yes. Come prepared for actual hiking in the outdoors. This is not a light touring experience.
What is the best type of shoe/boot for this trip?The perfect footwear for this trip is a medium-weight, waterproof hiking boot.
Do I need hiking poles for this trip?The terrain is often wet and uneven, so hiking poles will really assist with balance on varying terrain.
What is the cuisine like on this trip?During your hiking trip in Ireland, you will be provided with a variety of hearty and nutritious meals to fuel your adventures. Expect traditional Irish cuisine, such as lamb stews, potato dishes, and fresh seafood. Vegetarians can try Champ (mashed potatoes with onion & scallions), colcannon (mashed potatoes with kale or cabbage), or vegetarian shepherd's pie. In addition to the hearty meat, fish, and vegetable dishes, Ireland is also known for its delectable cheese and bread. Irish cheese is made from the milk of cows, sheep, or goats and comes in a variety of textures and flavors. Some of the most popular cheese types include Irish cheddar, blue cheese, and local Brie and Gouda.
Can I skip any of the hikes if I need a rest day?Yes. We will be staying in some hotels for multiple nights, giving you the opportunity to take a day off to explore the village or simply relax at the hotel.
What is the minimum age for this trip?The standard minimum age for this trip is 18, but check out our private trip options for families and groups with younger guests.What is the best time to hike in Ireland?
The best months to hike in Ireland are typically from May to September when the weather is milder, and the landscapes are lush and vibrant. However, it's important to be prepared for rain and rapidly changing weather conditions regardless of the season. Mountain Travel Sobek's Ireland trip runs from May to September.Is the Wild Atlantic Way scenic?
Yes. The Wild Atlantic Way is renowned for its breathtaking coastal scenery, featuring rugged cliffs, picturesque beaches, and charming seaside villages. It is perfect for hikers seeking a scenic trail through the landscape with many highlights and convenient stops along the way.How hard is it to hike the Wild Atlantic Way?
The Wild Atlantic Way stretches along Ireland's scenic west coast and includes rugged terrain, rocky paths, and unpredictable weather. Mountain Travel Sobek's Ireland North to South adventure is rated a moderate Level 3, which means that some training is required to make the most of your adventure, which includes hiking an average of 5 miles per day.How much time do you recommend for hiking in Ireland?
In our experience the best amount of time for a hiking vacation in Ireland is around two weeks. This ensures that you have enough time to settle in before getting out on the trail, and it enables you to see the main highlights plus the hidden gems. Mountain Travel Sobek's Ireland tour is a perfectly paced 12 days.
Day: 1, duration: 3
Bishop's Gate Hotel
Located within the historic Cathedral Quarter of Derry City, the Bishop's Gate Hotel was built over 100 years ago and has maintained its traditional Edwardian architecture style. Each guestroom has modern amenities, such as satellite TV, a coffee maker and Wi-Fi, and has elegant accents to keep with the hotel's heritage. Sip champagne at The Wig bar or tea in the Hervey Library to unwind at the end of the day.
Day: 2, duration: 2Ballyliffin Lodge & Spa
In a castlelike building on a village road, this family-run hotel is features en suite bathrooms, satellite TV, and tea and coffeemaking equipment. WiFi is complimentary in public areas. There's a restaurant with an airy formal dining room, plus a laid-back bar/lounge serving light meals.
Day: 4, duration: 2Westport Plaza Hotel
Located close to the town of Westport, the elegant Westport Plaza Hotel features spacious rooms, with a Jacuzzi bath and separate shower in the en suite bathroom. Savor sophisticated European food at the Merlot Restaurant, take a quick break at the Plaza Bar over cocktails, indulge in one of Spa Sula's massages or facials, or unwind in its thermal suite.
Day: 6, duration: 2Park House Hotel
Sitting in the heart of Galway City right next to Eyre Square, Park House Hotel is a stone's throw away from many attractions. The guest rooms are quiet, clean, and comfortable and The Park House is one of Galway's most popular restaurants, offering full Irish breakfasts and scrumptious dinners. An extremely hospitable staff make guests feel right at home.
Day: 8, duration: 2Dingle Skellig Hotel & Spa
Situated on the beautiful Dingle Peninsula, surrounded by rolling hills and the calm harbor, Dingle Skellig Hotel has offered travelers comfort, warm hospitality, and great service since 1969. After a day on the trail, wind down with a drink at Blaskets Bar or the Cocktail Bar. The Coastguard Restaurant serves locally sourced seafood overlooking the bay and the mountains.
Day: 8, duration: 2Dingle Benners Hotel
This traditional manor house hotel offers airy, classic rooms featuring vintage-style furnishings and en suite bathrooms. Each comes with free Wi-Fi, satellite TV, and tea and coffeemaking facilities. Room service is offered.
Day: 10, duration: 2Great Southern Killarney
Opened in 1854, the Great Southern Killarney retains its elegant Victorian style and old-world charm. The luxurious rooms showcase a full spectrum of plush perks. Surrounded by delightful gardens, it serves locally sourced food at the Garden Room Restaurant, casual food and fine whiskies at The Punchbowl Bar, afternoon tea in the Grand Foyer, and drinks in the Killarney Wine Rooms.
Brendan O'Connor
As an outdoor enthusiast, Brendan had a spoilt upbringing growing up in Killarney where the 22,000-hectare Killarney National Park was literally his very own backyard. He spent his youth out hiking, cycling, and boating in the park. Some years later, he went into ‘exile’ to Cork city for work. He was happy enough in Cork but something was always missing and it was photography that re-awakened Brendan’s love of the great outdoors. It was only then that it dawned on him – “what all these poets were on about.”
Kevin Cronin
From his earliest memories, Kevin has been drawn to exploring the remote, the wild and the isolated. Sharing these places with others on foot or bike brings him the greatest joy. The change of seasons, the abundance of nature, the sun, the wind and the rain are his oxygen. Hidden valleys, stone walls and ancient roads race in his blood. A quiet pint, fresh crab claws, a beautiful ballad or a story well told feeds his soul. Kevin has walked, cycled and explored much of Europe’s most amazing backdrops but is always drawn back to the wilds of Ireland.
Liam Fahy
Liam has loved Ireland's wild places since he was first introduced to them in the scouts as a teenager and has been exploring and enjoying the Irish wilderness ever since then. His first experience of guiding or leading others in the outdoors was as a scout leader where he realized that he enjoyed introducing others to the environment that he knew and loved as much as he enjoyed exploring it himself. Since then, Liam has been leading, guiding and instructing in the great Irish outdoors with youth groups, the Irish Defence Forces and as a wilderness guide.
Inclusions
Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
Snacks and water between meals
Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
Baggage transfers and porterage
Exclusions
International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and guide-drivers
Travel Protection Program
Personal expenses
Reason #01
MT Sobek has been operating world-class adventures in Ireland for decades and this is the perfect hike along Ireland's legendary Wild Atlantic Way.
Reason #02We've isolated the most beautiful 70 miles of the route to create an approachable and well-paced itinerary that you won't find anywhere else.
Reason #03Our local expert guides provide spontaneous opportunities to experience authentic pub life, live traditional Irish music, and a culture of camaraderie.
ActivitiesModerate hikes through iconic landscapes, taking in archaeological sites, galleries and craft shops, paired with heartwarming Irish hospitality.
LodgingFrom elegant historic hotels with gorgeous grounds to modern city hotels jam-packed with amenities, all featuring warm, welcoming service.
ClimateThe climate is actually rather mild, with an average yearly temperature around 50°F. Expect a bit of rain during your trip.
Who will meet me on arrival?Plan to arrive at the Dublin Airport (DUB) by 8:00AM on Day 1. After customs, you will be met by your guide or an MT Sobek representative and transferred to Derry, where the trip will start.
Is this really a hiking trip?Yes. Come prepared for actual hiking in the outdoors. This is not a light touring experience.
What is the best type of shoe/boot for this trip?The perfect footwear for this trip is a medium-weight, waterproof hiking boot.
Do I need hiking poles for this trip?The terrain is often wet and uneven, so hiking poles will really assist with balance on varying terrain.
What is the cuisine like on this trip?During your hiking trip in Ireland, you will be provided with a variety of hearty and nutritious meals to fuel your adventures. Expect traditional Irish cuisine, such as lamb stews, potato dishes, and fresh seafood. Vegetarians can try Champ (mashed potatoes with onion & scallions), colcannon (mashed potatoes with kale or cabbage), or vegetarian shepherd's pie. In addition to the hearty meat, fish, and vegetable dishes, Ireland is also known for its delectable cheese and bread. Irish cheese is made from the milk of cows, sheep, or goats and comes in a variety of textures and flavors. Some of the most popular cheese types include Irish cheddar, blue cheese, and local Brie and Gouda.
Can I skip any of the hikes if I need a rest day?Yes. We will be staying in some hotels for multiple nights, giving you the opportunity to take a day off to explore the village or simply relax at the hotel.
What is the minimum age for this trip?The standard minimum age for this trip is 18, but check out our private trip options for families and groups with younger guests.What is the best time to hike in Ireland?
The best months to hike in Ireland are typically from May to September when the weather is milder, and the landscapes are lush and vibrant. However, it's important to be prepared for rain and rapidly changing weather conditions regardless of the season. Mountain Travel Sobek's Ireland trip runs from May to September.Is the Wild Atlantic Way scenic?
Yes. The Wild Atlantic Way is renowned for its breathtaking coastal scenery, featuring rugged cliffs, picturesque beaches, and charming seaside villages. It is perfect for hikers seeking a scenic trail through the landscape with many highlights and convenient stops along the way.How hard is it to hike the Wild Atlantic Way?
The Wild Atlantic Way stretches along Ireland's scenic west coast and includes rugged terrain, rocky paths, and unpredictable weather. Mountain Travel Sobek's Ireland North to South adventure is rated a moderate Level 3, which means that some training is required to make the most of your adventure, which includes hiking an average of 5 miles per day.How much time do you recommend for hiking in Ireland?
In our experience the best amount of time for a hiking vacation in Ireland is around two weeks. This ensures that you have enough time to settle in before getting out on the trail, and it enables you to see the main highlights plus the hidden gems. Mountain Travel Sobek's Ireland tour is a perfectly paced 12 days.
About MT Sobek
This is where adventure travel began! Since our first Everest Base Camp trek in 1969, we’ve been connecting adventurers to the world through genuine, active and immersive experiences. We can’t think of anything more fulfilling than being outside and going deep into nature, exploring hidden places and getting to know local people. It’s what we love to do, so let us share it with you.
To feed your spirit of adventure, Mountain Travel Sobek offers a wide range of unique and perfectly paced itineraries led by incredible local guides. We keep groups small, usually fewer than 10 people, and seek out great food and characterful accommodations everywhere we go.
Beyond the seamless logistics and careful attention to detail, our aim is to create a space for truly special moments in unforgettable places.
We are the Adventure Company—come explore with us.
About MT Sobek
This is where adventure travel began! Since our first Everest Base Camp trek in 1969, we’ve been connecting adventurers to the world through genuine, active and immersive experiences. We can’t think of anything more fulfilling than being outside and going deep into nature, exploring hidden places and getting to know local people. It’s what we love to do, so let us share it with you.
To feed your spirit of adventure, Mountain Travel Sobek offers a wide range of unique and perfectly paced itineraries led by incredible local guides. We keep groups small, usually fewer than 10 people, and seek out great food and characterful accommodations everywhere we go.
Beyond the seamless logistics and careful attention to detail, our aim is to create a space for truly special moments in unforgettable places.
We are the Adventure Company—come explore with us.
