Open Travel Guide
Hiking in Leinster

Leinster Hiking & Trekking Guide 2026

Leinster on foot: graded trails, seasonal windows, and the logistics behind each route.

Leinster has 7+ hiking trails covered in this guide, led by Wicklow Way (Marlay Park to Roundwood), Bray to Greystones Cliff Walk and Lugnaquilla Summit. Each entry below includes the practical details — what it costs, when to go, and how to plan around it.

Leinster is Ireland's eastern province, home to the capital Dublin and encompassing 12 counties stretching from the rolling Wicklow Mountains to the ancient passage tombs of the Boyne Valley. It blends vibrant urban culture with prehistoric monuments, medieval castles, and some of Ireland's most dramatic coastal and mountain scenery.

Top trails

Routes worth lacing up your boots for.

  1. 1

    Wicklow Way (Marlay Park to Roundwood)

    45 km (Day 1–3 of full route); full route 130 km2 days (north section); 7–10 days (full route)Highest point 700m at Djouce. Cumulative ascent approx 1,400m for north section.

  2. 2

    Bray to Greystones Cliff Walk

    8 km one way2–3 hours one way200m total ascent; highest point Bray Head 241m

  3. 3

    Lugnaquilla Summit

    16 km round trip5–7 hours return925m summit. Ascent 780m from Fenton's car park.

  4. 4

    Howth Cliff Walk Loop

    8 km full loop2–3 hours180m cumulative ascent

  5. 5

    Glendalough Spinc & Glenealo Valley

    9.5 km loop3–4 hours400m ascent; views over Upper Lake

  6. 6

    Djouce Mountain

    10 km round trip3–4 hours725m summit; 450m ascent from Crone Wood

  7. 7

    Sally Gap & Lough Tay Walk

    6 km circular from Sally Gap2 hours100m ascent

Trail difficulty levels

Pick a route that matches your fitness and experience.

Easy

Mostly flat, well-marked paths. Suitable for families and casual walkers.

Moderate

Some elevation gain, longer distances. Requires basic fitness.

Hard

Significant climbs and exposure. Requires good fitness and route-finding.

Expert

Technical terrain, scrambling, or alpine conditions. Experience essential.

Local hazards

What to watch out for on the trail.

High

Sudden weather changes — always carry rain gear and warm layers.

Medium

Wildlife encounters — make noise on the trail and store food properly.

Medium

Trail conditions can deteriorate after rain — check recent reports before setting out.