I’m not really a camping person. Honestly, my friends sometimes joke I’m way too ‘high-maintenance’ for this sort of thing. But when my brothers (who hardly ever visit) asked me to join them, I couldn’t really turn them down.
We ended up camping in a national park, but I had no idea that would make me a buffet for 30-something mosquitoes—I’ve never been more unprepared in my life! My brothers are great company and I loved the sunrise. Still, there’s no way we’re doing this again.
So after that trip, I made it my mission to look for many outdoor activities in Ireland that we can all enjoy. Take a look below!
What can you enjoy outside in Ireland?
There are a bunch of things you can enjoy outside in Ireland! Notable ones include hiking at a national park, cycling along the coast, surfing at a popular beach, kayaking on freshwater lakes, and rock climbing at a granite quarry.
Hike Through Wicklow Mountains National Park
Media credit: uainireland
Website: http://www.wicklowmountainsnationalpark.ie/
Address: 4MVQ+6J Sally Gap, County Wicklow
Contact Details: +353 404 45800, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Open 24 hours
Want to start your outdoor activities in Ireland with breathtaking views? The Wicklow Mountains can offer a varied terrain with lush valleys, rocky ridges, and glacial lakes.
Speaking of varied, we bet you won’t get bored with the trails here. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned hiker, there’s something for everyone. We say go from the easy Glendalough Green Road to the intimidating Lugnaquilla—Ireland’s 13th highest peak!
Of course, if you’re a history buff, we reckon you’d like the Glendalough Monastic Site as well! For us, this place could be the calm break you need amid all the excitement from your hikes.
Pro tip:
When hiking through the Wicklow Mountains, we recommend wearing the sturdiest, comfiest boots you own. The trails can be pretty uneven, so we say don’t risk choosing style over function here.
Cycle the Great Western Greenway
Media credit: joeyshuker
Website: https://www.greenway.ie/
Address: Co. Mayo
Contact Details: +353 (0)94 9064000, [email protected]
If you love to bike, the Great Western Greenway’s 42 km path provides travellers with a majestic Clew Bay coastline. We say take a deep breath of fresh air since you’ll see plenty of hills, islands, and rural landscapes here.
We also like that the path here is very biker-friendly since it’s mostly flat. No need to worry if you cycle for fun or bragging rights. Plus, you can go through the fascinating villages or the historical Westport House to maximise your exploration.
Friendly reminder:
For us, it’s best to plan your breaks at the Great Western Greenway from the get-go. While there are a couple of places here for a stopover, we recommend bringing your own snacks and water so you’re all set.
Surf in Lahinch
Media credit: lahinchsurfschool
Website: http://www.lahinchsurfschool.com/
Address: Surf School Beach Hut, Promenade, Dough, Lahinch, Co. Clare
Contact Details: +353 87 960 9667, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 5 PM
Fancy doing cool water sports on the beach? The sandy Lahinch Beach offers cool waves suitable for both seasoned surfers and beginners—there are a bunch of surf schools and rental shops around for this!
And when you’re done enjoying the fun surfing culture there, we suggest going for a chill stroll and exploring the shops and cafes around.
Alternatively, you could try windsurfing or kite surfing! If you don’t want to get too wet, we also recommend considering other adventures. This involves trying the local seafood or walking around with a bit of people-watching.
Just remember:
Easily get cold? The Atlantic waters can get pretty chilly, so we think wearing a good wetsuit would be appropriate—yes, even in the summer!
Kayak on Lough Corrib
Media credit: sapphirelunatravels
Address: Homefarm, Leagaun, Moycullen, Co. Galway
Contact Details: +353 89 460 0405, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 5 PM
Kayaking seems great if you prefer serene freshwater lakes over beaches. Lough Corrib is one of Ireland’s biggest lakes, so we believe you’ll have enough space for water activities.
We reckon this could be a fantastic date idea since you can paddle through peaceful waters. You’ll enjoy the islands, hills, and lavish greenery as well.
Moreover, we bet you’ll love having access to historical sites! You can go to O’Brien’s Bridge, a picturesque village. Otherwise, you can visit Aughnanure Castle, the well-preserved late-medieval tower house.
Stay waterproof:
Though the waters are typically serene at Lough Corrib, we believe bringing a waterproof bag is best. This way, you can keep your phone and other valuables dry and safe.
Rock Climb at Dalkey Quarry
Media credit: combokate
Address: Dalkey Commons, Dublin
Operating Hours:
- Open 24 hours
Just 30 minutes from Dublin, Dalkey Quarry is a top attraction for locals and travellers who want a good range of climbing routes.
Not only that, but the quarry overlooks the Irish Sea! This gives you magnificent views as you climb—we believe this makes the whole climb more satisfying!
Expert advice:
Consider bringing your personal climbing gear. Yes, we know rental options exist—but we reckon having your own would ensure your comfort throughout.
Ride Through Killarney National Park
Media credit: paulinethesoul
Website: https://www.nationalparks.ie/killarney/
Address: 2C4V+8G Pallas, County Kerry
Contact Details: +353 1 539 3620, +353 (0) 64 663 5215 (Killarney House and Gardens, Visitor Centre), [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Open 24 hours
Love horseback riding? You can make the most of this activity by riding through lush woodlands, past sparkling lakes, and along mountain paths at Killarney National Park.
There are many stables here that offer guided horseback rides, so you can see plenty of lovely routes! This includes seeing the lovely Lough Leane and Torc Waterfall views too.
For the animal lovers:
Keep your eyes open for the famous Kerry Bog Pony (mountain and moorland pony breed) or other wildlife you can only find in Killarney National Park.
Dogs are also allowed here! Just be a responsible fur parent and bring your pet’s leash, their food and drink essentials, as well as cleaning items.
Fish in Lough Neagh
Media credit: loughneaghsstories
If you want to do something fulfilling that lets you take home the prize, why not fish? You can start at Lough Neagh, Ireland’s biggest freshwater lake—this is where you can catch tons of fish, such as salmon, trout, pike, and perch!
And the way we see it, you don’t need to worry about distractions—this lake is surrounded by peaceful villages too.
Smart pointer:
Before you start preparing your rods, reels, and bait to catch something good at Lough Neagh, remember that you’ll need a proper fishing licence—it’s required for freshwater fishing!
Explore the Caves at Marble Arch
Media credit: marblearchcaves
Website: https://marblearchcaves.co.uk/
Address: 43 Marlbank Rd, Enniskillen BT92 1EW
Contact Details: +44 28 6632 1815, [email protected]
Operating Hours (Visitor Centre & Cafe):
- Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM
Fees:
- Adults (18+) – £16
- Child ( 5 to 17) – £8
- Family (2 Adults + 2 Children) – £40
- Family (2 Adults + 3 Children) – £48
- Student Concession (18+) – £14
- Senior Concession (65+) – £14
- Private Tour (maximum of 21) – £285
Find the darkness fascinating? The Marble Arch caves are UNESCO Global Geopark wonders where you can find vast chambers, stalactites, and rivers.
No need to worry because there are tons of guided experiences here to help you learn about the history and geology of it all.
And if you need a more active exercise? We believe the nearby Cuilcagh Boardwalk (Stairway to Heaven) can give you an exhilarating hike.
Just remember:
Even if you don’t think you get cold easily, we think it’s smart to bring a light jacket to the Marble Arch caves—it can get freezing underground throughout the year, about 9°C!
Naturally, the caves would be home to bats. These are a protected species, though. You can look, but you can’t touch (or disturb!).
Zipline Through Castlecomer Discovery Park
Media credit: castlecomer_discovery_park
Website: https://www.discoverypark.ie/contact-castlecomer-discovery-park/
Address: The Estate Yard, Ardra, Castlecomer, Co. Kilkenny
Contact Details: +353 56 444 0707, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9:30 AM to 4 PM
Fees:
- Zipline & Octagon High Ropes Course – €31
- Zipline Only – €18.50
Should you still be chasing that good ol’ taste of adrenaline, we say try ziplining at Castlecomer Discovery Park!
And if you dare, know that this longest option in Ireland is 300 meters. This one’s located in 80 acres of stunning forest and spans across many trees and a lake too!
In our view, this is for the whole family since this includes plenty of fun activities for everyone—climbing walls, archery, and high ropes—whichever floats your boat.
Cheat sheet:
Save money at Castlecomer Discovery Park by booking a Combo Pass from the get-go! We bet you’ll be tempted to try multiple activities here, anyway.
And don’t be late! We noticed that some attractions open on a first-come, first-served basis—be sure to get enough sleep for this!
Camp in Glenveagh National Park
Media credit: glenveaghofficial
Website: http://www.glenveaghnationalpark.ie/
Address: Letterkenny, Co. Donegal
Contact Details: +353 1 539 3232, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9:15 AM to 5:15 PM
For us, camping is such an experience too important to miss out on. If you want somewhere remote and wild, Glenveagh National Park showcases remote glens and rugged mountains for you. It’s also the second-largest national park in Ireland.
And if you feel the wilderness is calling out to you, we reckon that might just be the wildlife around you. If you’re lucky, you can spot the golden eagles and red deer here!
Our advice:
Visiting Glenveagh National Park during the summer? Make sure to pack everything—including an insect repellent! Summer evenings can bring some unnecessary biting insects your way.
Stargaze in Mayo Dark Sky Park
Media credit: mayonorth
Website: http://www.wildnephinnationalpark.ie/
Address: Ballycroy, Co. Mayo
Contact Details: +353 98 49888, [email protected], [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5:30 PM
Fees:
- Free entry
What better way to end all your outdoor activities in Ireland with a little stargazing? The Gold-Tier Dark Sky Zone is among Europe’s darkest places for this activity—we believe you’ll truly enjoy the stars here!
On top of that, we think the Wild Nephin Ballycroy National Park’s remoteness makes it amazing for those trying their hand at astrophotography. You can also enjoy events like star parties and astronomer talks if you’re so into this!
Cool ideas:
Use an app like Stellarium to help you identify constellations at Mayo Dark Sky Park! With its help, you can view an accurate night sky simulation of stars and planets for any date, time, and location.
We suggest bringing a reclining chair or mat too! We believe stargazing would be most comfortable when you lie back in the chillest way possible.