Ireland North to South Hiking
Dublin, Ireland to Dublin, Ireland
Highlights:
- Hike the most stunning 70 miles of Ireland's famous Wild Atlantic Way and summit age-old Croagh Patrick
- See the rugged Cliffs of Moher and the awe-inspiring basalt columns of the Giant's Causeway
- Soak up Irish culture and history from our knowledgeable local guides
Important Trip Details:
This trip is perfect for people who enjoy and are capable of 5 – 10 miles of hiking per day, over a period of several hours. There are days that are hilly, and you’ll even climb a mountain. The terrain is varied, with time spent walking on beaches, footpaths, through fields and grassy meadows, and it is often wet underfoot.
Minimum Age: 18
- Adventure and Active
- Hiking and Trekking
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ID: 8380703
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ID: 8380701
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ID: 8380703
|
ID: 8912289
|
ID: 8912290
|
ID: 8912291
|
ID: 8912292
|
ID: 8912293
|
ID: 8912294
|
ID: 8912295
|
ID: 8912296
|
Reason #01
MT Sobek has been operating world-class adventures in Ireland for decades and this is the perfect hike along Ireland's legendary Wild Atlantic Way.
Reason #02We've isolated the most beautiful 70 miles of the route to create an approachable and well-paced itinerary that you won't find anywhere else.
Reason #03Our local expert guides provide spontaneous opportunities to experience authentic pub life, live traditional Irish music, and a culture of camaraderie.
ActivitiesModerate hikes through iconic landscapes, taking in archaeological sites, galleries and craft shops, paired with heartwarming Irish hospitality.
LodgingFrom elegant historic hotels with gorgeous grounds to modern city hotels jam-packed with amenities, all featuring warm, welcoming service.
ClimateThe climate is actually rather mild, with an average yearly temperature around 50°F. Expect a bit of rain during your trip.
Who will meet me on arrival?Plan to arrive at the Dublin Airport (DUB) by 8:00AM on Day 1. After customs, you will be met by your guide or an MT Sobek representative and transferred to Derry, where the trip will start.
Is this really a hiking trip?Yes. Come prepared for actual hiking in the outdoors. This is not a light touring experience.
What is the best type of shoe/boot for this trip?The perfect footwear for this trip is a medium-weight, waterproof hiking boot.
Do I need hiking poles for this trip?The terrain is often wet and uneven, so hiking poles will really assist with balance on varying terrain.
Do I need a visa to enter Ireland?US citizens do not need a visa for Ireland. However, you will need to have an electronic travel authorization (ETA) for this itinerary, as it includes time in Northern Ireland—part of the United Kingdom. While not a visa, the UK ETA is a digital permission to enter the United Kingdom, and is required for entry as of January 2025.
Can I skip any of the hikes if I need a rest day?Yes. We will be staying in some hotels for multiple nights, giving you the opportunity to take a day off to explore the village or simply relax at the hotel.
What is the best time to hike in Ireland?The best months to hike in Ireland are typically from May to September when the weather is milder, and the landscapes are lush and vibrant. However, it's important to be prepared for rain and rapidly changing weather conditions regardless of the season. Mountain Travel Sobek's Ireland trip runs from May to September.Is the Wild Atlantic Way scenic?
Yes. The Wild Atlantic Way is renowned for its breathtaking coastal scenery, featuring rugged cliffs, picturesque beaches, and charming seaside villages. It is perfect for hikers seeking a scenic trail through the landscape with many highlights and convenient stops along the way.How hard is it to hike the Wild Atlantic Way?
The Wild Atlantic Way stretches along Ireland's scenic west coast and includes rugged terrain, rocky paths, and unpredictable weather. Mountain Travel Sobek's Ireland North to South adventure is rated a moderate Level 3, which means that some training is required to make the most of your adventure, which includes hiking an average of 5 miles per day.How much time do you recommend for hiking in Ireland?
In our experience the best amount of time for a hiking vacation in Ireland is around two weeks. This ensures that you have enough time to settle in before getting out on the trail, and it enables you to see the main highlights plus the hidden gems. Mountain Travel Sobek's Ireland tour is a perfectly paced 12 days.Is beer included on this trip?
On most adventures, we toast on the first and last days—but this trip is brewing up something different! Traveling through a country renowned for its beer, we're raising our glasses every evening with a complimentary beer or two at dinner. It's a celebration of local culture and flavors, turning each meal into a standout moment of your journey.What is the minimum age for this trip?
The standard minimum age for this trip is 18, but check out our private trip options for families and groups with younger guests.
Inclusions
Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
Snacks and water between meals
Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
Baggage transfers and porterage
Exclusions
International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and guide-drivers
Travel Protection Program
Personal expenses
Day: 1, duration: 3
Bishop's Gate Hotel
Located within the historic Cathedral Quarter of Derry City, the Bishop's Gate Hotel was built over 100 years ago and has maintained its traditional Edwardian architecture style. Each guestroom has modern amenities, such as satellite TV, a coffee maker and Wi-Fi, and has elegant accents to keep with the hotel's heritage. Sip champagne at The Wig bar or tea in the Hervey Library to unwind at the end of the day.
Day: 4, duration: 2Westport Plaza Hotel
Located close to the town of Westport, the elegant Westport Plaza Hotel features spacious rooms, with a Jacuzzi bath and separate shower in the en suite bathroom. Savor sophisticated European food at the Merlot Restaurant, take a quick break at the Plaza Bar over cocktails, indulge in one of Spa Sula's massages or facials, or unwind in its thermal suite.
Day: 6, duration: 2The Twelve Hotel Galway
Named after the surrounding peaks, discover a mix of tradition and style in a seaside village close by to Galway. Le Petit Spa pampers you with sustainable products made with native Irish seaweed. Enjoy a restful night's sleep in a chic room with plush bedding, cozy robes, and a Juliet balcony. The nostalgic bar is the ideal spot to swap stories of your adventures over a snack and a cocktail.Day: 8, duration: 2
Dingle Skellig Hotel & Spa
Situated on the beautiful Dingle Peninsula, surrounded by rolling hills and the calm harbor, Dingle Skellig Hotel has offered travelers comfort, warm hospitality, and great service since 1969. After a day on the trail, wind down with a drink at Blaskets Bar or the Cocktail Bar. The Coastguard Restaurant serves locally sourced seafood overlooking the bay and the mountains.
Day: 8, duration: 2Dingle Benners Hotel
This traditional manor house hotel offers airy, classic rooms featuring vintage-style furnishings and en suite bathrooms. Each comes with free Wi-Fi, satellite TV, and tea and coffeemaking facilities. Room service is offered.
Day: 10, duration: 2Great Southern Killarney
Opened in 1854, the Great Southern Killarney retains its elegant Victorian style and old-world charm. The luxurious rooms showcase a full spectrum of plush perks. Surrounded by delightful gardens, it serves locally sourced food at the Garden Room Restaurant, casual food and fine whiskies at The Punchbowl Bar, afternoon tea in the Grand Foyer, and drinks in the Killarney Wine Rooms.
Brendan O'Connor
As an outdoor enthusiast, Brendan had a spoilt upbringing growing up in Killarney where the 22,000-hectare Killarney National Park was literally his very own backyard. He spent his youth out hiking, cycling, and boating in the park. Some years later, he went into ‘exile’ to Cork city for work. He was happy enough in Cork but something was always missing and it was photography that re-awakened Brendan’s love of the great outdoors. It was only then that it dawned on him – “what all these poets were on about.”
Kevin Cronin
From his earliest memories, Kevin has been drawn to exploring the remote, the wild and the isolated. Sharing these places with others on foot or bike brings him the greatest joy. The change of seasons, the abundance of nature, the sun, the wind and the rain are his oxygen. Hidden valleys, stone walls and ancient roads race in his blood. A quiet pint, fresh crab claws, a beautiful ballad or a story well told feeds his soul. Kevin has walked, cycled and explored much of Europe’s most amazing backdrops but is always drawn back to the wilds of Ireland.
Liam Fahy
Liam has loved Ireland's wild places since he was first introduced to them in the scouts as a teenager and has been exploring and enjoying the Irish wilderness ever since then. His first experience of guiding or leading others in the outdoors was as a scout leader where he realized that he enjoyed introducing others to the environment that he knew and loved as much as he enjoyed exploring it himself. Since then, Liam has been leading, guiding and instructing in the great Irish outdoors with youth groups, the Irish Defence Forces and as a wilderness guide.
At MT Sobek, sustainability isn’t just a principle; it’s woven into the very fabric of how we operate. We don’t simply observe the world’s unique cultures and fragile ecosystems—we take an active role in their preservation. Supporting organizations dedicated to environmental conservation and community well-being is part of our DNA. Over the years, we have contributed over half a million dollars to conservation efforts and volunteered hundreds of hours to initiatives like Yosemite Facelift. Our programs work to ensure that the wild and beautiful places we visit will continue to thrive, with a special emphasis on sustainable practices and positive social impact. From funding reforestation projects to supporting local artisans, our commitment to sustainability goes hand-in-hand with unforgettable adventure.
Reason #01
MT Sobek has been operating world-class adventures in Ireland for decades and this is the perfect hike along Ireland's legendary Wild Atlantic Way.
Reason #02We've isolated the most beautiful 70 miles of the route to create an approachable and well-paced itinerary that you won't find anywhere else.
Reason #03Our local expert guides provide spontaneous opportunities to experience authentic pub life, live traditional Irish music, and a culture of camaraderie.
ActivitiesModerate hikes through iconic landscapes, taking in archaeological sites, galleries and craft shops, paired with heartwarming Irish hospitality.
LodgingFrom elegant historic hotels with gorgeous grounds to modern city hotels jam-packed with amenities, all featuring warm, welcoming service.
ClimateThe climate is actually rather mild, with an average yearly temperature around 50°F. Expect a bit of rain during your trip.
Who will meet me on arrival?Plan to arrive at the Dublin Airport (DUB) by 8:00AM on Day 1. After customs, you will be met by your guide or an MT Sobek representative and transferred to Derry, where the trip will start.
Is this really a hiking trip?Yes. Come prepared for actual hiking in the outdoors. This is not a light touring experience.
What is the best type of shoe/boot for this trip?The perfect footwear for this trip is a medium-weight, waterproof hiking boot.
Do I need hiking poles for this trip?The terrain is often wet and uneven, so hiking poles will really assist with balance on varying terrain.
Do I need a visa to enter Ireland?US citizens do not need a visa for Ireland. However, you will need to have an electronic travel authorization (ETA) for this itinerary, as it includes time in Northern Ireland—part of the United Kingdom. While not a visa, the UK ETA is a digital permission to enter the United Kingdom, and is required for entry as of January 2025.
Can I skip any of the hikes if I need a rest day?Yes. We will be staying in some hotels for multiple nights, giving you the opportunity to take a day off to explore the village or simply relax at the hotel.
What is the best time to hike in Ireland?The best months to hike in Ireland are typically from May to September when the weather is milder, and the landscapes are lush and vibrant. However, it's important to be prepared for rain and rapidly changing weather conditions regardless of the season. Mountain Travel Sobek's Ireland trip runs from May to September.Is the Wild Atlantic Way scenic?
Yes. The Wild Atlantic Way is renowned for its breathtaking coastal scenery, featuring rugged cliffs, picturesque beaches, and charming seaside villages. It is perfect for hikers seeking a scenic trail through the landscape with many highlights and convenient stops along the way.How hard is it to hike the Wild Atlantic Way?
The Wild Atlantic Way stretches along Ireland's scenic west coast and includes rugged terrain, rocky paths, and unpredictable weather. Mountain Travel Sobek's Ireland North to South adventure is rated a moderate Level 3, which means that some training is required to make the most of your adventure, which includes hiking an average of 5 miles per day.How much time do you recommend for hiking in Ireland?
In our experience the best amount of time for a hiking vacation in Ireland is around two weeks. This ensures that you have enough time to settle in before getting out on the trail, and it enables you to see the main highlights plus the hidden gems. Mountain Travel Sobek's Ireland tour is a perfectly paced 12 days.Is beer included on this trip?
On most adventures, we toast on the first and last days—but this trip is brewing up something different! Traveling through a country renowned for its beer, we're raising our glasses every evening with a complimentary beer or two at dinner. It's a celebration of local culture and flavors, turning each meal into a standout moment of your journey.What is the minimum age for this trip?
The standard minimum age for this trip is 18, but check out our private trip options for families and groups with younger guests.
Inclusions
Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
Snacks and water between meals
Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
Baggage transfers and porterage
Exclusions
International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and guide-drivers
Travel Protection Program
Personal expenses
Day: 1, duration: 3
Bishop's Gate Hotel
Located within the historic Cathedral Quarter of Derry City, the Bishop's Gate Hotel was built over 100 years ago and has maintained its traditional Edwardian architecture style. Each guestroom has modern amenities, such as satellite TV, a coffee maker and Wi-Fi, and has elegant accents to keep with the hotel's heritage. Sip champagne at The Wig bar or tea in the Hervey Library to unwind at the end of the day.
Day: 4, duration: 2Westport Plaza Hotel
Located close to the town of Westport, the elegant Westport Plaza Hotel features spacious rooms, with a Jacuzzi bath and separate shower in the en suite bathroom. Savor sophisticated European food at the Merlot Restaurant, take a quick break at the Plaza Bar over cocktails, indulge in one of Spa Sula's massages or facials, or unwind in its thermal suite.
Day: 6, duration: 2The Twelve Hotel Galway
Named after the surrounding peaks, discover a mix of tradition and style in a seaside village close by to Galway. Le Petit Spa pampers you with sustainable products made with native Irish seaweed. Enjoy a restful night's sleep in a chic room with plush bedding, cozy robes, and a Juliet balcony. The nostalgic bar is the ideal spot to swap stories of your adventures over a snack and a cocktail.Day: 8, duration: 2
Dingle Skellig Hotel & Spa
Situated on the beautiful Dingle Peninsula, surrounded by rolling hills and the calm harbor, Dingle Skellig Hotel has offered travelers comfort, warm hospitality, and great service since 1969. After a day on the trail, wind down with a drink at Blaskets Bar or the Cocktail Bar. The Coastguard Restaurant serves locally sourced seafood overlooking the bay and the mountains.
Day: 8, duration: 2Dingle Benners Hotel
This traditional manor house hotel offers airy, classic rooms featuring vintage-style furnishings and en suite bathrooms. Each comes with free Wi-Fi, satellite TV, and tea and coffeemaking facilities. Room service is offered.
Day: 10, duration: 2Great Southern Killarney
Opened in 1854, the Great Southern Killarney retains its elegant Victorian style and old-world charm. The luxurious rooms showcase a full spectrum of plush perks. Surrounded by delightful gardens, it serves locally sourced food at the Garden Room Restaurant, casual food and fine whiskies at The Punchbowl Bar, afternoon tea in the Grand Foyer, and drinks in the Killarney Wine Rooms.
Brendan O'Connor
As an outdoor enthusiast, Brendan had a spoilt upbringing growing up in Killarney where the 22,000-hectare Killarney National Park was literally his very own backyard. He spent his youth out hiking, cycling, and boating in the park. Some years later, he went into ‘exile’ to Cork city for work. He was happy enough in Cork but something was always missing and it was photography that re-awakened Brendan’s love of the great outdoors. It was only then that it dawned on him – “what all these poets were on about.”
Kevin Cronin
From his earliest memories, Kevin has been drawn to exploring the remote, the wild and the isolated. Sharing these places with others on foot or bike brings him the greatest joy. The change of seasons, the abundance of nature, the sun, the wind and the rain are his oxygen. Hidden valleys, stone walls and ancient roads race in his blood. A quiet pint, fresh crab claws, a beautiful ballad or a story well told feeds his soul. Kevin has walked, cycled and explored much of Europe’s most amazing backdrops but is always drawn back to the wilds of Ireland.
Liam Fahy
Liam has loved Ireland's wild places since he was first introduced to them in the scouts as a teenager and has been exploring and enjoying the Irish wilderness ever since then. His first experience of guiding or leading others in the outdoors was as a scout leader where he realized that he enjoyed introducing others to the environment that he knew and loved as much as he enjoyed exploring it himself. Since then, Liam has been leading, guiding and instructing in the great Irish outdoors with youth groups, the Irish Defence Forces and as a wilderness guide.
At MT Sobek, sustainability isn’t just a principle; it’s woven into the very fabric of how we operate. We don’t simply observe the world’s unique cultures and fragile ecosystems—we take an active role in their preservation. Supporting organizations dedicated to environmental conservation and community well-being is part of our DNA. Over the years, we have contributed over half a million dollars to conservation efforts and volunteered hundreds of hours to initiatives like Yosemite Facelift. Our programs work to ensure that the wild and beautiful places we visit will continue to thrive, with a special emphasis on sustainable practices and positive social impact. From funding reforestation projects to supporting local artisans, our commitment to sustainability goes hand-in-hand with unforgettable adventure.
About MT Sobek
This is where adventure travel began! Since our first Everest Base Camp trek in 1969, we’ve been connecting adventurers to the world through genuine, active and immersive experiences. We can’t think of anything more fulfilling than being outside and going deep into nature, exploring hidden places and getting to know local people. It’s what we love to do, so let us share it with you.
To feed your spirit of adventure, Mountain Travel Sobek offers a wide range of unique and perfectly paced itineraries led by incredible local guides. We keep groups small, usually fewer than 10 people, and seek out great food and characterful accommodations everywhere we go. Beyond the seamless logistics and careful attention to detail, our aim is to create a space for truly special moments in unforgettable places.
We are the Adventure Company—come explore with us.
About MT Sobek
This is where adventure travel began! Since our first Everest Base Camp trek in 1969, we’ve been connecting adventurers to the world through genuine, active and immersive experiences. We can’t think of anything more fulfilling than being outside and going deep into nature, exploring hidden places and getting to know local people. It’s what we love to do, so let us share it with you.
To feed your spirit of adventure, Mountain Travel Sobek offers a wide range of unique and perfectly paced itineraries led by incredible local guides. We keep groups small, usually fewer than 10 people, and seek out great food and characterful accommodations everywhere we go. Beyond the seamless logistics and careful attention to detail, our aim is to create a space for truly special moments in unforgettable places.
We are the Adventure Company—come explore with us.
