Top 5 outdoor activities in Ireland and where to do them

Do you want to do some sport in the midst of breathtaking scenery? Here are our top must-do activities on the Emerald Isle!

Gwen Rouviere
by Gwen Le Cointre
24 May 2024, 10:58
Top 5 outdoor activities in Ireland and where to do them
A hike on Diamond Hill in Ireland - © Fáilte Ireland

For sports enthusiasts and thrill-seekers: Ireland is the perfect island for travelers seeking adventure and authentic emotions! The country, with its miles of coastline, forests, mountains, lakes and national parks, offers a wealth of sporting opportunities!

But what are the must-do activities in Ireland? A small selection of the 5 most popular outdoor activities in Ireland!

1. Hiking in Ireland

1. Discover at your own pace, and at your own level!

Hiking in Connemara - Hiking in Connemara - © panimo

Hiking in ConnemaraHiking in Connemara – © panimo

It’s obvious: Ireland is the home of walkers and hikers! Whatever your level: with its wide-open spaces, the country is teeming with marked trails of every difficulty!

They range from simple family outings with the kids to major commando hikes requiring equipment, stamina and the will to do!

And whatever the circuit or level, happiness is always on the menu. The encounter with Irish nature is beautiful, disarming and a real change of scenery! Whether you’re hiking along the Cliffs of Moher, along a peat bog, or in the middle of a forest park, there’s always a view or something to discover!

Where to practice?

  • Killarney National Park, County Kerry: This park offers a multitude of hiking trails, from easy strolls around lakes to more strenuous hikes such as the summit of Carrauntoohil, Ireland’s highest mountain.
  • Wicklow Mountains, County Wicklow: The Glendalough trails are particularly popular, offering breathtaking views of glacial valleys and lakes.
  • The Dingle Way, County Kerry: This 179 km trail around the Dingle Peninsula offers spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean, cliffs and beaches.

2. Surfing in Ireland

Why surf in Ireland?

A surfer in Ireland - © grafxart

A surfer in Ireland – © grafxart

Surfing in Ireland may seem a surprising idea to some, but this island of wild landscapes and spectacular coastlines offers exceptional surfing conditions. Every year, it attracts surfers from all over the world who come to try out its rollers!

It has to be said that Ireland enjoys world-class waves, thanks to its exposure to the North Atlantic Ocean. The powerful swells that batter its shores create perfect waves for surfing.

They are a source of adrenaline, and even a challenge for the most experienced surfers!

Surfing in Ireland also offers breathtaking scenery. Irish beaches are often framed by spectacular cliffs, green mountains and wilderness, adding a unique visual dimension to every surf session. The perfect change of scenery!

Last but not least, Ireland boasts a large local surfing community. Surf schools, clubs and festivals all add to the appeal of surfing in Ireland!

Where to practice?

  • Bundoran, County Donegal: Renowned as the surfing capital of Ireland, Bundoran offers waves for all levels, from beginners to experienced surfers.
  • Lahinch, County Clare: This beach is ideal for beginners and intermediate surfers. It’s also close to the famous Cliffs of Moher.
  • Strandhill, County Sligo: Another popular surfing destination with consistent waves and a relaxed atmosphere.

3. Cycling in Ireland

Why cycle in Ireland?

Cycling in Ireland - © Luca

Cycling in Ireland – © Luca

Cycling in Ireland is a great experience for those who want to stretch their legs. It’s the perfect opportunity to combine sport and communion with nature!

Because Ireland offers a wide variety of magnificent landscapes, from rugged coastlines to impressive mountain passes and deserted roads in the middle of national parks. And let’s not forget the cities, which can also be discovered through your efforts, whether on the streets or in the local parks!

Ireland has a wide range of roads and cycle paths to suit all levels of cyclist. Famous itineraries such as the Great Western Greenway and the Ring of Kerry offer safe, well-marked routes.

Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or an amateur, you’ll find routes to suit your level and your desires. All you have to do is take the plunge, set off well-equipped, and enjoy!

Finally, exploring Ireland by bike is an eco-friendly travel option, reducing your carbon footprint. What’s more, it’s a great way to stay active and healthy while enjoying the fresh air and magnificent scenery.

Where to practice?

  • The Great Western Greenway, County Mayo: This 42 km bike path follows an old railroad line and offers magnificent views of the Atlantic coast and mountains.
  • The Kingfisher Trail, County Fermanagh and County Leitrim: A 480 km circuit through varied landscapes, from sparkling lakes to wooded hills.
  • The Ring of Kerry, County Kerry: This 179 km circuit is one of Ireland’s most famous, offering panoramic ocean views and picturesque scenery.

4. Fishing in Ireland

Why fish in Ireland rather than elsewhere?

Inshore fishing in Ireland: experience a unique adventure! Failte Ireland

Inshore fishing in Ireland: experience a unique adventure! Failte Ireland

Did you know? Ireland is one of Europe’s favorite fishing grounds! This is due not only to the fish-rich waters, but also to the sublime, unspoilt scenery!

Picture this: you’re all alone in the world, in your boat, in the middle of an Irish lake, fishing rod in hand. All around you is beauty and silence, in a verdant monochrome, where misty lakes reserve the most beautiful specimens! Here, you’re in a haven of peace: only the landscape changes with the light and the advancing day!

Isn’t that attractive?

In Ireland, you can tease Atlantic salmon and pike, as well as brown trout and Arctic char, offering excellent fishing opportunities.

Where to practice?

  • River Moy, County Mayo: The River Moy is renowned as one of the best salmon fishing destinations in Europe. It attracts fishermen from all over the world for its abundant population of Atlantic salmon. The best places to fish on the Moy include the famous “Ridge Pool” at Ballina and the upstream and downstream sections of the river.
  • Lough Corrib, County Galway: Lough Corrib is Ireland’s second largest lake, renowned for its brown trout and salmon fishing. With its many bays, islands and coves, it offers a variety of fishing spots. Popular areas include the North Corrib, West Corrib and Fermoyle Shore.
  • Lough Mask, County Mayo/County Galway: Lough Mask is another lake renowned for its brown trout and salmon fishing. Situated between counties Mayo and Galway, it offers clear waters and picturesque landscapes. Anglers can find success along the shores of the lake and in its many tributaries and creeks.

5. Sea kayaking in Ireland

Discovering the Irish coast…

Sea kayaking in Ireland - @edgar-bullons-images - Canva

Sea kayaking in Ireland – @edgar-bullons-images – Canva

Sea kayaking in Ireland is an incomparable experience for many reasons. Firstly, because the Irish coastline offers breathtaking scenery, with majestic cliffs, secluded beaches and islands to explore.

What’s more, the waters around Ireland are teeming with marine life, from curious seals to playful dolphins and majestic seabirds. Sea kayaking offers unique opportunities to observe this wildlife in its natural habitat!

Finally, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced kayaker, Ireland offers a variety of kayaking areas to suit all levels. Guided tours are available for those seeking a supervised experience, while experienced kayakers can explore more remote areas on their own.

In short, sea kayaking in Ireland is an adventure in itself! It offers a unique combination of scenery and thrills!

Where to practice?


To discover at the moment