Ireland’s Ancient East is a dream destination for walkers, where every trail seems to reveal another layer of the country’s remarkable landscape and history.
From mountain paths and forest waterfalls to peaceful riverside towpaths and old railway lines, the region offers walking routes to suit adventurous hikers, families and everyone in between. Lace up your boots and prepare for spectacular scenery, fascinating heritage and some of the most rewarding walks in Ireland.
1. South Leinster Way
Stretching for 103.6km from Kildavin in County Carlow to Carrick-on-Suir in County Tipperary, the South Leinster Way is a superb choice for walkers looking for a long-distance adventure.
With around 1,490 metres of ascent, it takes you through a varied landscape of rolling countryside, woodland, valleys and mountain scenery. The route offers a wonderful opportunity to experience the quieter side of Ireland’s Ancient East, with villages, historic sites and expansive views appearing along the way. It is particularly appealing to experienced walkers planning a multi-day journey.
2. Glenbarrow Waterfall Loop
For a shorter escape into the wild, head to Glenbarrow in the Slieve Bloom Mountains. Located close to the geographical centre of Ireland, this beautiful region straddles Counties Laois and Offaly and is renowned for its forests, hidden valleys and distinctive blanket bog.
The Glenbarrow Waterfall Loop is an excellent way to experience this natural landscape, with woodland trails leading walkers towards the area’s atmospheric waterfall. It is a rewarding route for nature lovers, particularly when the surrounding landscape is lush and green.
3. Wicklow Way
One of Ireland’s most celebrated walking routes, the Wicklow Way was the country’s first waymarked trail. Covering just over 128km, the linear route connects Dublin’s southern suburbs with the mountains and countryside of Wicklow and Carlow.
Experienced walkers can embark on the full multi-day journey, while shorter sections provide a chance to sample the route without committing to the entire trail.
Expect rugged mountain scenery, forest tracks, open moorland and tranquil valleys as you journey through the heart of the Wicklow Mountains.
4. Barrow Way
Following the historic towpath beside the River Barrow, the 116.9km Barrow Way is an appealing option for walkers of different abilities.
The route passes through Counties Kildare, Laois and Carlow, combining peaceful riverside scenery with a rich collection of heritage attractions. Its relatively gentle character makes it particularly inviting for those who prefer a less strenuous walk.
Along the way, old locks, bridges, villages and historic buildings provide plenty of reasons to pause and take in your surroundings.
5. Waterford Greenway
The Waterford Greenway is one of Ireland’s most accessible and spectacular walking routes. Following a disused railway line between Waterford City and Dungarvan, the 47.8km off-road trail offers an easy-going way to explore the countryside.
Historic railway structures, viaducts, wooded sections and sweeping views combine to create a memorable journey.
Because the surface is largely traffic-free, it is a particularly good choice for families and anyone seeking a relaxed day outdoors.
You can walk a short section or make a longer adventure of it, with towns and villages along the route providing convenient stopping points.
6. Nore Valley Walk: Kilkenny to Bennettsbridge
The 8.2km section between Kilkenny City and Bennettsbridge offers a wonderful introduction to the Nore Valley.
This moderate walk follows the River Nore through a landscape of green fields, trees and peaceful countryside. It is an ideal choice when you want to combine a rural walk with a visit to one of Ireland’s most historic cities.
The riverside setting creates a calm atmosphere, while the route’s manageable distance makes it suitable for a rewarding half-day outing.
7. Nore Valley Walk: Inistioge to Thomastown
Another picturesque section of the Nore Valley Walk runs for 10.8km between the villages of Inistioge and Thomastown in County Kilkenny. The route immerses walkers in the gentle beauty of the Nore Valley, with lush countryside and riverside views throughout.
Inistioge itself is an especially charming starting point, and the walk offers a chance to slow down and appreciate the landscape that has shaped this part of the country for centuries.
8. East Munster Way
The 69km East Munster Way delivers impressive variety as it crosses the landscapes of Tipperary and Waterford. Along the route, walkers encounter riverside paths, woodland, open mountain moorland and quiet country roads.
As part of the European E8 route, it also offers a taste of long-distance walking on an international scale. The changing scenery keeps the journey interesting, while the combination of natural beauty and rural heritage makes this an excellent choice for a multi-day adventure.
9. Táin Way
In County Louth, the Táin Way offers something a little different: a walk steeped in mythology and legend. This long-distance circular route travels around the county’s highest peak, bringing together dramatic scenery and stories associated with the legendary Táin.
It is an opportunity to get away from the more familiar tourist trails and discover a landscape where Ireland’s ancient stories feel particularly close. For walkers who enjoy combining outdoor adventure with history and folklore, the Táin Way is a memorable choice.
Whether you are seeking a challenging mountain journey, a peaceful riverside stroll or a family-friendly day outdoors, Ireland’s Ancient East has a trail to match.
These nine routes showcase the extraordinary variety of the region, from the mountains of Wicklow and Slieve Bloom to the valleys of Kilkenny and the historic waterways of Waterford and Carlow. Wherever you choose to walk, take your time, look around and let the landscape tell its story.
