Last year we decided to start walking some of the longer trails in Ireland. We found they are a fabulous way of discovering places that you might never normally visit. These trails pass through villages and forests, over mountain and bog, down little boreens with grass growing up in the middle of them, and pass by hidden little gems such as wells, stone circles, ruined medieval churches and interesting graveyards with famous people interred within.
Stopping at small cafés or bars along the way brings the opportunity to meet local people who will chat readily about the various sights and events in the area. In small villages, particularly, you’re always welcomed with a smile.
I’ve written about the trails we’ve followed and categorised them below. So, although it doesn’t look like much on this page, when you click into the trails, you can see how many kilometres we’ve walked. This page is being updated as we walk, so do come back, and feel free to leave a comment and tell us what your experience has been if you’ve walked any of these trails.
The Beara-Breifne Way
The Beara-Breifne Way is Ireland’s longest national way-marked trail at 700km in length. A passport is available for the walk and can be obtained through the Beara-Breifne way website.
The Blackwater Way
The Blackwater Way comprises the Avondhu Way and the Duhallow Way and is a 168km (officially) long distance walk that starts in Clogheen, Co. Tipperary and finishes in Shrone, Co. Kerry.