Five scenic routes to discover on a sunny spring walk this weekend

The weather forecast is bright and dry this weekend, so get your hiking boots on and check out these gorgeous spots around the country

Goleen Harbour Long Loop. Picture: Joleen Cronin

WALKING TRAILS

Marconi Loop

Galway

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This walk, in a rugged and wild landscape and area of outstanding natural beauty within the Derrigimlagh bog complex, follows a roadway and gravel tracks with small sections of boardwalk. You will walk through sensitive areas, as it passes through the Industrial Heritage site of the first commercial wireless radio station, also the landing site for the first nonstop transatlantic flight, whose stories are explained with various interpretive elements.

This is also the site of the Wild Atlantic Signature Point of Derrigimlagh. The walk includes natural heritage and has fine views of lakes, mountains, sea and Roundstone bog (a special area of conservation with its unique flora and fauna and a multitude of lakes).

In association with Sport Ireland.

WALKING TRAILS

Glen Beach Cliff Walk

Wicklow

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This trail follows cliff path as it takes the walker through a landscape of rich cultural interest on one of the most spectacular stretches of Wicklow’s coastline. Walk towards Wicklow Head Lighthouse and a loop at the far end, passing Brides Holy Well, a church ruin, Lime-Kiln Bay (the site has remains of one), coves and beaches with opportunities to see grey seal, the occasional porpoise or dolphin and for bird watching in a Special Protection Area for breeding populations of several species of sea bird as well as Peregrine Falcon and Raven, all the while offering beautiful vistas of Wicklow Harbour, Bray Head, the Wicklow Mountains and the coast.

In association with Sport Ireland.