Top 5 family friendly hikes in Ireland
Explore the great outdoors and the beauty Ireland has to offer. SuperValu Getaway Breaks have complied a list of the top 5 family friendly hikes in Ireland to help keep the whole family entertained. If you’re a family of outdoor lovers and are looking for some beautiful places to go hiking, then this list is for you. It’s time to get out and about, to soak up the breath-taking landscape Ireland has to offer. All of these hikes take less than 3 hours to complete, perfect for families to enjoy together.
1. Crone Wood & Maulin Mountain loop - Wicklow
Located in county Wicklow, this trail is 7.7km in length, is well marked and is also pet friendly. It has some breath-taking views along the way. On a clear day, the Wicklow mountains including the Sugar Loaf are in sight as well as an amazing view overlooking Powerscourt Waterfall.
If you plan to add this to your list, why not stay at the Arklow Bay Hotel & Leisure Centre where you can enjoy a relaxing hotel stay and free breakfast to fuel before your hike.
2. Torc Waterfall Loop – Kerry
6.6km in length, this is moderately challenging route but perfect for all the family. If you choose to bring the dog along, they must be kept on a leash at all times. The trail is absolutely beautiful, the experience of being in contact with nature is unforgettable. As you begin the walk, you will hear the sound of water crashing against the rocks alongside the path. Within 15 minutes of the starting point, you will come to the foot of the waterfall itself which is the perfect backdrop for some family photos. As you continue on the stone stesps, you will come across splendid views of Muckross Lake on a clear day. Picnics on a sunny day can be a great choice for the family to enjoy all the greenery and views the hike has to offer.
The Brehon Hotel & Angsana Spa, Riverside Hotel Killarney and Killarney Court Hotel will be sure to cater for all your post hiking needs
3. Ballycuggaran Forest, Moylussa – Clare
This is a long out and back trail with stunning views of Lough Derg, pets are allowed and can be off the leash in some areas. The scenery is breath-taking, with numerous birds and flowers along the way. The route is easy to follow and you have the choice to make it as long or as short as you wish. Within the first 3km, you will have stunning views of the lake, the perfect place to stop for a break and some snacks.
Why not treat the family to a hotel break in The Killaloe Hotel & Spa, The Falls Hotel & River Spa or Treacy’s West County Hotel and head off to Ballycuggaran Forest after a re-energising hotel stay.
4. Ravens Point – Wexford
This 6.8km walk offers a unique blend of a beach and forest walk, giving you great bang for your buck. You will start the trail, on a well-marked route through the forest which will then lead onto a long stretch of golden sand on Curracloe beach. As you loop back to the starting point, you will walk along a sand covered board walk with the forest to the left where you might be lucky to spot some important bird species.
Fill the lungs with fresh sea air and then head to Brandon House Hotel & Solis Croi Spa or the Maldron Hotel Wexford hotel for a nights rest.
5. Gougane Barra Forest Park - Cork
Located on the outskirts of the Sheehy Mountains, the Gougane Barra Forest Park has a range of routes to suit all ages. You have a choice to walk as little as 0.5km or as long as 2.5km. The park itself covers over 339 acres and is located in a gorgeous valley. This picture perfect trail is the perfect backdrop for family stroll, followed by a picnic.
When you’ve soaked in this magnificent scenery, head to the Rochestown Park Hotel or the Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa Cork hotel to relax in style.
We fell in love with these hikes, and we think you will to. Whether you’re looking for a mid-week activity or a romantic weekend away, SuperValu Getaway Breaks has plenty to suit all tastes and budgets.
