My Top 5 Hikes Near Dublin

Dublin might be a bustling city, but within minutes of the urban sprawl, you’ll find rugged cliffs, misty mountains, and winding coastal paths that feel worlds away. As an avid hiker (and someone who craves nature to balance city life), I’ve explored countless trails around Dublin—but these five hikes stand out for their jaw-dropping scenery, accessibility, and pure Irish magic.

Whether you’re after a heart-pumping climb or a leisurely seaside stroll, this list covers everything from Howth’s cliffs to Wicklow’s lakes—all doable in a day or less. Slip on your boots, pack a rain jacket (this is Ireland, after all), and let’s hit the trails.

From the Great Sugarloaf to the Little Sugarloaf to Bray Head (oh my!)

If you’re looking for a hike that packs in summit scrambles, sea views, and plenty of well-earned pub stops, this one’s for you. Start by hopping the 133 bus from Dublin city centre to Kilmacanoge, then cross the highway and kick off the loop up the Great Sugarloaf Hill (click here for the loop in AllTrails). Expect a little rock scramble, big skies, and absolutely incredible views on a clear day.

Once you’ve looped back down, reward yourself with a pint at Pluck’s Bar, then cross the highway again—this time for the Little Sugar Loaf (click here for the trail in AllTrails). More ridge views, more fresh air, and a trail that leads you right to Belmont Demesne, where you can swap your walking boots for a coffee and pastry or dive into a brewery tour and pint at O Brother Brewing Taproom.

From there, follow the path to Bray Head for classic coastal panoramas, then descend into Bray. Hit the legendary The Harbour Bar for a seafood spice box, browse Finders Keepers vintage shop if you’re in time, and explore Bray’s charity shops and cafés before catching the train or bus back to Dublin.

Cliffs, Seals, and Seaside Pints: The Glen Beach Cliff Walk

If you’re after a coastal stroll with serious wildlife potential, the Glen beach cliff walk in Wicklow delivers. This stunning trail (click here for cliff walk in AllTrails) hugs the cliffs with sweeping views of the Irish Sea and if you time it right, you’ll spot seals down on the beach rearing their pups. Keep your distance (the cliffs give you a perfect bird’s-eye view), and please keep dogs on a lead to protect these incredible animals. From there, you can push all the way to Wicklow Head and its iconic Wicklow Head Old Lighthouse before turning back.

Once you’re back on level ground, reward yourself in Wicklow Town. Grab a hearty feed at Francesco's Diner, then settle in for a well-earned pint at the The Bridge Tavern. Cliff walks + cute seals + proper grub = a perfect day out.

Cliffs, Caves, or a Bog Full of Frogs: Howth's Cliff Walks

Howth is a hiking gem just a short DART ride from Dublin, and you’ve got two brilliant ways to do it.

Option one: the classic Howth Cliff Walk – follow the coastal path to Baily Lighthouse, with A Tiny Hidden Beach and a secret sea cave tucked along the way (click here for the cliff walk in AllTrails). After soaking up the views, swing by The Summit Inn for a well-earned pint, then continue back down to the village.

Option two: the Bog of Frogs Loop – this longer route takes you all the way around the Howth Peninsula (click here for the loop in AllTrails). Expect wilder terrain, lovely swimming spots, and a stroll through the grounds of Howth Castle as you make your way back.

Either route ends in Howth Village, where you can reward yourself with fresh seafood at one of the harbour-side restaurants or browse Howth Market if it's still open. Cliffs, caves, castles, and chowder – Howth has it all.

Twin Lakes, a Dip, and a Side Quest: Lough Bray Loop

If you're after a hike that's equal parts stunning and refreshing, the Lough Bray loop is pure magic (click here for the loop walk in AllTrails). You'll circle both lakes, climb up to Eagles Crag for incredible views, and—if you're brave—take a well-earned dip in either lake. Trust me, it's freezing but fabulous after the trek.

The side quest (do this): just a short detour away lies St. Kevin's Church, a peaceful little gem with a cafe, the charming Lourdes Grotto , and a German Military Cemetery surrounded by woodland. There's a river nearby too, perfect for a second cool-down splash if one dip wasn't enough (Glencree river dip by St Kevin's Church).

Lakes, viewpoints, history, and a post-hike coffee by a local grotto—Lough Bray might just be your new favourite Wicklow wander.

Pints & Peaks: Conquering the Dublin Mountains Way, One Pub at a Time

The Dublin Mountains Way (click here for the full DMW route in AllTrails) is an iconic trail that winds through forests, reservoirs, and ridgelines with sweeping views of the sea, Wicklow, and Dublin city. Along the way, you'll pass the Bohernabreena Reservoir Park, wander through Cruagh woods Trails, and spot the whimsical Fairy Castle in Ticknock Hill – a proper Dublin hiking bucket list item.

You can tackle the whole thing in one go, but here's the better plan: break it into three pub-supported sections.

🍻 Section one ends at The Merry Ploughboy Gastro Pub

🍻 Section two finishes at Johnnie Fox's Pub (Ireland's highest pub)

🍻 Section three wraps at Brady's Shankill – the perfect finish line.

Three hikes, three pubs, one unforgettable way to mark this Dublin classic off your list. Sláinte! 🥾🍺