That’s the way we hike it
Hiking is more than a pastime for so many people; it’s a way of life. Whether visiting from abroad or from somewhere else in the country, Ireland’s Ancient East boasts some of the very best trails in the country and is just waiting to be explored by you.
Every county in the region is criss-crossed with a seemingly endless network of hikes for all levels of experience. Take county Monaghan for example. Rossmore Forest Park Loop is a moderate 6.9km trail near Kilmore that will take you about two hours to complete. A popular trail for hiking, running, and walking, the trail still offers plenty of solitude during quieter times of day. Another great hiking spot in the county is Slieve Beagh. Generally considered an easy route, this 6.4km trail near Sheskin will take an average of 1h45min to complete.
Heading south to county Louth, the stunning 9.8km trek from Carlingford to Slieve Foye represents what hiking is all about. Moderate in difficulty, the trail is located on the Cooley Peninsula and will take upwards of three and a half hours to get done. The trail will bring you to the top of Slieve Foye where you’re treated to stunning views for miles. It’s important to mention that dogs aren’t permitted on this trail. Another amazing trail in Louth is the 8.5km Ravensdale Forest Circular which takes you through Ravensdale Forest Park on the western slopes of Black Mountain. Another moderate trail, it should take you no more than three and a quarter hours to finish.
Moving to county Kildare, the Ballymore Bridge Loop near Ballymore Eustace offers a scenic route through the countryside as it meanders alongside the river Liffey, providing picturesque riverside views. A moderately challenging route, the 5.5km route is path is well-marked and is famous for its wildlife encounters. Also in county Kildare is the 6.6km Donedea Forest Park Alymer Walk Loop. The trail is a great walk through a well-maintained forest with lots to see, including a stunning castle and a 9/11 commemoration plot along the way. There is also a coffee shop to rest and re-energize on-site. It costs €5 per car to enter and is an easy-going route that is suitable for most abilities.
According to alltrails.com, the Mount Leinster trail in county Carlow is one of the best around. A whopping 13.2km in length, this moderately challenging trail takes an average of 4 hours and 58 minutes to complete as it takes visitors to the summit of Mount Leinster where you will have sweeping views of the surrounding countryside before returning to the start via the top of Knockroe.
Here in Cork, once of the most popular trails in the entire county is the Ballycotton Cliffs and Ballyandreen Bay hike. The 7.2km out-and-back trail is simple to follow and offers great rewards with the entire route being framed by magnificent views out to sea. Considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 1 hour 55 mins to complete. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash!