REVEALED: Popular Mayo hiking trail named among Ireland's Top Ten
New analysis by outdoor specialist store Trailblazers has revealed Ireland’s most popular hikes
A popular Mayo hiking destination has been named among the top ten across Ireland.
New analysis by outdoor specialist store Trailblazers has revealed Ireland’s most popular hikes, with one iconic Wicklow trail rising above all others.
Just in time for spring hiking season, Trailblazers analysed Instagram hashtags to find which of Ireland’s hiking routes are getting the most attention online.
The results show:
Glendalough is Ireland’s most popular hike with 258,000 Instagram posts, far ahead of the rest of the list.
County Kerry boasts four of the top 10, with Carrauntoohil, Torc Mountain, Mount Brandon and The Dingle Way all hugely popular.
Long-distance routes like the Wicklow Way also make the list, showing the appeal of multi-day walking adventures.
The full list:
1. Glendalough, Wicklow
The iconic boardwalk trail above the Upper Lake in Glendalough is widely considered one of the best day hikes in Ireland.
2. Diamond Hill, Connemara, GalwayA relatively short but spectacular hike in Connemara National Park with panoramic views over the Twelve Bens and Atlantic coastline.
3. Croagh Patrick, Mayo
A historic pilgrimage hike overlooking Clew Bay, Croagh Patrick is climbed by thousands each year, particularly during Reek Sunday.
4. Wicklow Way, Wicklow/Dublin
Ireland’s oldest waymarked trail, running from Dublin through the Wicklow Mountains to County Carlow.
5. Carrauntoohil (Devil’s Ladder Route), Kerry
Ireland’s highest mountain and one of the country’s most famous climbs, located in the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks. The Devil’s Ladder is the most common ascent route.
6. Mount Errigal, Donegal
The tallest mountain in Donegal and a favourite for hikers thanks to its quartzite peak and sweeping views of the northwest coast.
7. Torc Mountain, Killarney National Park, Kerry
A popular hike above the lakes of Killarney, known for its accessibility and exceptional views over the national park.
8. Mount Brandon, Kerry
One of Ireland’s highest peaks on the Dingle Peninsula, Mount Brandon is a popular hike known for its sweeping Atlantic views and historic pilgrimage route to the summit.
9. The Dingle Way, Kerry
One of Ireland’s most celebrated long-distance trails, looping around the Dingle Peninsula with coastal views and traditional villages.
10. The Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk, Clare
A dramatic cliffside trail along Ireland’s most famous sea cliffs, offering views across the Atlantic and the Aran Islands.