10 of our Favourite Winter Walks in Ireland

Tibradden is one of the easier hikes in the Dublin Mountains. Despite its relatively modest height, hikers are rewarded with views spanning Dublin Bay and south of the city, and even further afield. On one of our last visits – on a very chilly but clear December morning – we could catch glimpses of the Mourne Mountains and even the Isle of Man! On the summit you will find an opened cairn. Excavations revealed Bronze Age pottery and cremated bone, though it may have originated as a Neolithic Passage Tomb. Local folklore suggests that it was the final resting place of Niall Glúndub, High King of Ireland from AD 916–919. 

There are millennia of stories etched onto the landscape of the uplands of Dublin, with many of its peaks crowned with prehistoric monuments. For thousands of years, the Dublin Mountains have been a place of ceremonial significance, of early mythology and rich folklore, terrifying tales, a bastion between warring factions, and a source of sanctuary. Today they continue to be a source of sanctuary, albeit from the hustle and bustle of the city. As well as some great hikes, the Dublin Mountains offer an abundance of archaeological, natural and cultural heritage.

Tuatha members can start exploring some of the best sites in the region in their Dublin Mountain Itinerary.

Don’t let weather conditions prevent you from going out and exploring! Members of Tuatha can follow our Kilkenny City Itinerary to explore the medieval marvels of the city. Kilkenny developed through the centuries, from that ancient monastery and royal seat of the Mac Giolla Phádraig Kings of Ossory, to the base of William Marshal, one of the most powerful medieval magnates of the 13th century, and the home of the wealthy Butler family, Earls of Ormonde. As you walk through the storied streets of the city, you will encounter the home of a wealthy medieval merchant, discover the city’s defences, its incredible castle, and the wonderful St Canice’s Cathedral, where the city’s origins lie.

The cairn-topped mountain of Knocknarea dominates the storied prehistoric landscape of the Cúil Irra Peninsula. Legend has it that the great stone cairn – known as Miosgán Meadhbha – is the final resting place of the famous warrior queen Maeve, one of the chief protagonists of the epic Táin Bó Cúailnge. Today you can enjoy the spectacular scenery from the walking trail that leads to this commanding monument. Accessible all year round, it is a beautiful and bracing spot for a hike, though it is best avoided in inclement weather. 

Ready for an adventure? Explore the monumental landscapes of Sligo and Leitrim to discover megalithic cemeteries, legendary mountains, monastic marvels, and hidden waterfalls with our exclusive itinerary.

The area around Dunhill must have been a place of real significance during the Neolithic period. This was the time of Ireland’s first farmers, the people who cleared the primeval forests to create fields for growing crops and grazing livestock. A number of their enormous megalithic tombs can be seen around the Anne Valley, in a concentration rarely encountered outside of the well-known prehistoric landscapes of the Boyne Valley in Meath or the Cúil Írra Peninsula in County Sligo. The presence of a series of portal tombs in particular is interesting. These monuments are typically found in the northern half of the island, so the cluster here suggests a distinct tribal group or community that lived in this landscape more than 5000 years ago.

For a family-friendly festive stroll, the Anne Valley Walk is a great bet. This beautiful scenic walk extends from Ballyphilip Bridge, past Dunhill Castle to Annestown and it usually takes about 45 minutes to complete. There is interpretation along the well made paths, and fairy doors for children. Keep an eye out for resident otters and other wildlife, and the Steeple – a monument raised by the Cole family.

West of Enniskillen in County Fermanagh, hidden away within the commercial forestry plantation at Ballintempo Wood, you can find Aghanaglack Court Tomb. The name Aghanaglack (sometimes spelled Aghnaglack) appears to be derived from ‘Achadh na Glaice’, meaning ‘field of the hollow’ an accurate description for the setting. This is another fine example of a dual court tomb that is likely to date to the earlier part of the Neolithic Period (c.4000–3500 BC). Court tombs are more common in the northern half of Ireland, and typically are made up of a gallery (long stone structure enclosed by a cairn) and a courtyard (an open semi-circular area at the entrance to the tomb).

The circular walk through Ballintempo Forest is not too challenging, and could be a great day out this winter for all the family.

Glendalough Monastery is a perfect blend of scenery and story, and the perfect spot for one of the best winter walks in Ireland! The national park in which it is situated offers a wonderful variety of trails, ensuring that there is something for almost everyone. For a gentle stroll, the Miner’s Road Walk and Green Road Walk meander along the shores of the Upper and Lower Lakes, offering peaceful flat paths perfect for soaking in the valley’s winter stillness. For those looking to stretch their legs a bit further, the Spinc and Glenealo Valley Trail provides a more challenging route. This 9-kilometre loop begins at the carpark close to the Upper Lake, climbing through the forest near Poulanass Waterfall before emerging onto the Spinc ridge, where you can catch some absolutely spectacular views of the valley. From there, the trail winds down through the Glenealo Valley, home to red deer, before returning along the serene lakeside path. It’s a rewarding hike that takes approximately 2–3 hours to complete.

For more about the archaeology, history and heritage of Glendalough, see our free article and visitor guide here.