- Diamond Hill Loop, Connemara National Park (7 km, Moderate, ~2-3 hours: This popular trail in Connemara National Park near Letterfrack ascends Diamond Hill, offering panoramic views of the Twelve Bens, Kylemore Abbey, and the Atlantic coast. The well-maintained path includes boardwalks and gravel sections, suitable for moderately fit hikers with sturdy boots.
- Inishmore Coastal Walk, Aran Islands (10 km, Easy to Moderate, ~2-3 hours: On Inishmore, the largest Aran Island, this coastal trail explores rugged cliffs, stone walls, and historic sites like Dún Aonghasa, a prehistoric fort. Accessible by ferry from Rossaveal, the walk offers stunning Atlantic views and insights into island culture. Flat terrain suits most walkers.
- Killary Harbour Coastal Walk (16 km, Moderate, ~4-5 hours: Starting in Leenane, this trail follows the southern shore of Killary Harbour, Ireland’s only fjord, with views of the Mweelrea Mountains and Connemara’s wild landscape. Part of the Western Way, it’s a scenic, relatively flat walk, ideal for those seeking coastal and mountain vistas.
- Maumeen Pass and Mám Éan Loop (8 km, Moderate, ~2-3 hours: In the Maumturk Mountains, this trail starts at Maumeen Pass and visits the ancient pilgrimage site of Mám Éan, with a stone oratory and holy well. Expect rugged terrain, boggy patches, and breathtaking views of the Twelve Bens. Suitable for experienced walkers with proper footwear.
- Kylemore Abbey and Victorian Walled Garden Trails (3-5 km, Easy, ~1-2 hours: Near Letterfrack, these gentle trails explore Kylemore Abbey’s grounds, including its Gothic church, lake, and restored walled garden. The woodland paths offer serene views of Connemara’s hills and are family-friendly, with historical insights. An entry fee applies for full access.
- Burren National Park: Knockaunroe Turlough Trail (1.5 km, Easy, ~1 hour: In the Burren region of southeast Galway, this short trail near Corofin explores a turlough (seasonal lake) and limestone pavements, rich with rare wildflowers. The flat, accessible path is ideal for families and those interested in the Burren’s unique geology and flora.
- Clifden Sky Road Loop (11 km, Easy to Moderate, ~2-3 hours: This coastal loop from Clifden follows the Sky Road, offering spectacular views of the Atlantic, Clifden Bay, and offshore islands. The trail combines quiet roads and paths, suitable for casual walkers and cyclists, with stunning sunset vistas.
- Omey Island Tidal Walk (4 km, Easy, ~1-1.5 hours: Accessible at low tide from Claddaghduff, this unique walk crosses a sandy causeway to Omey Island, featuring beaches, dunes, and archaeological sites. Check tide times carefully, as the causeway is submerged at high tide. Ideal for a short, scenic coastal adventure.
- Woodville Walled Garden and Trails, Kilchreest (2-4 km, Easy, ~1 hour: Near Loughrea, this tranquil trail explores a restored 18th-century walled garden and surrounding woodlands. The flat, well-maintained paths are perfect for a leisurely stroll, with colorful flowerbeds and peaceful countryside views, ideal for families.
- Portumna Forest Park Trails (3-10 km, Easy to Moderate, ~1-3 hours: On the shores of Lough Derg, this park near Portumna offers loops like the Forest Friendly Trail (3 km) and longer Riverside Loop (10 km). Trails wind through mixed woodlands, bogs, and lakefronts, with chances to spot red squirrels and historic ruins. Suitable for all levels.
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