- Sheep’s Head Way (93 km total, Easy to Moderate, multi-day or shorter loops: This long-distance trail on the Sheep’s Head Peninsula offers stunning coastal views, with shorter loops like the 10 km Lighthouse Loop ideal for day hikes. Expect rugged cliffs, quiet beaches, and Atlantic vistas. Well-marked paths wind through heather-covered hills, perfect for serene coastal walks.
- Beara Way (Cork Section) (50 km in Cork, Moderate, multi-day or shorter sections: Part of the 206 km Beara Way, Cork’s section stretches from Glengarriff to Kenmare, featuring coastal paths, mountain trails, and views of Bantry Bay. Shorter day hikes, like the 12 km Glengarriff to Adrigole section, showcase forests and rugged peaks. Waterproof boots are advised for boggy areas.
- Ballycotton Cliff Walk (7 km, Easy, ~2 hours: This scenic coastal trail from Ballycotton to Ballyandreen follows cliff-top paths with panoramic views of the Celtic Sea. Spot seabirds, lighthouses, and wildflowers along this gentle, family-friendly route. The path is well-maintained, but caution is needed near cliff edges.
- Glengarriff Nature Reserve Trails (2-5 km, Easy to Moderate, ~1-2 hours: Located in Glengarriff, these trails include loops like the Big Meadow and River Walk, winding through ancient oak woodlands and along the Glengarriff River. Expect serene forest paths, waterfalls, and views of Bantry Bay. Ideal for families and casual walkers.
- Gougane Barra Forest Park Trails (1-6 km, Easy to Moderate, ~1-2 hours: Located in a glacial valley, this park near Ballingeary offers short loops like the Slí Gaeltacht Mhuscraí trail, featuring lakeside paths, waterfalls, and views of St. Finbarr’s Oratory. The tranquil setting and diverse flora make it perfect for a peaceful hike.
- Knockadoon Cliff Walk (8 km, Moderate, ~2-3 hours: Starting at Knockadoon Pier near Youghal, this coastal loop offers dramatic sea views, rugged cliffs, and quiet beaches. The trail passes historic sites like Capel Island and is ideal for birdwatching. Sturdy shoes are recommended for uneven terrain.
- Blarney Castle Grounds Walk (3-5 km, Easy, ~1-2 hours: Explore the gardens and woodlands of Blarney Castle, with trails winding through the Arboretum, Fern Garden, and along the River Martin. This family-friendly walk combines history, lush scenery, and the famous Blarney Stone. Paths are well-maintained and accessible.
- Carrigfadda Hill Walk (6 km, Moderate, ~2 hours: Near Skibbereen on the Wild Atlantic Way, this hilltop trail offers sweeping views of Roaringwater Bay and Carbery’s Hundred Isles. The path climbs through farmland and heather, rewarding hikers with coastal panoramas. Suitable for moderately fit walkers.
- Farrangalway Nature Reserve Walk (4 km, Easy, ~1-1.5 hours: Near Kinsale, this gentle trail loops through woodlands and wetlands, offering a peaceful escape with opportunities to spot wildlife like otters and herons. The flat terrain and clear paths make it ideal for families or casual strollers.
- Seven Heads Peninsula Walk (12 km, Moderate, ~3-4 hours: Starting in Timoleague, this coastal trail explores the Seven Heads Peninsula, featuring cliffs, beaches, and historic sites like the Timoleague Abbey. Expect stunning views of Courtmacsherry Bay and a mix of quiet roads and paths. Suitable for a half-day hike.
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