Five walks if you want to get out and about in the sea breeze
From Cork's Capel Way to a cycle loop at Doolin in County Clare or Cahore Point coastal loop in Wexford, there are plenty beautiful coastal walks to choose from
If you just want to get out and get some sea air then here are five lovely coastal walks to choose from.
WALKING TRAILS
Capel Way Coastal Trail Glen Loop
Cork
As part of the Capel Way Coastal Trail this is a most enjoyable walk on gravel track and minor road bringing the walker along the coastal path around the tip of Knockadoon peninsula.
You will pass the signal tower (a Napoleonic War lookout tower), a Second World War concrete lookout post and some beautifully maintained thatched cottages, with stunning views of the sea cliffs, Ballycotton Bay and Youghal Bay as well as Capel Island, eventually returning to Knockadoon car park along minor road. Knockadoon Head along with Capel Island and the area of sea between is a national nature reserve. The shorter Island Loop walk also starts at this trailhead.
In association with Sport Ireland.
WALKING TRAILS
Emlagh Loop
Kerry
This beautiful walk starts at Inny Strand and brings the walker through contrasting landscapes with a unique mix of coastal and bogland settings as it follows the sandy beach along Inny Strand and as far as the Inny Estuary. It takes minor roads, farm road, track and a short section of rough ground, briefly crossing a busier road, as it circles behind the Strand and Estuary passing through bogland, a small forestry plantation and farmland in a very scenic setting overlooking Ballinskelligs Bay.
The trail offers the chance to see wildlife and wonderful views over the bay and the surrounding landscape. There is one other trail starting from this trailhead.
In association with Sport Ireland.
WALKING TRAILS
Doolin Cycle Hub Loop 1
Clare
The North Clare Cycle network consists of four signposted cycle routes on quiet country roads in the north of the county. The loops all start and finish in Doolin village and include distances of 18km, 26km, 43km, and 47km in length. Loop 1, which is featured here, is the shortest route at 18km and takes a route from Doolin southwards towards the Cliffs of Moher before returning to the village.
Each route offers wonderful views of the local countryside with stunning coastal panoramas. There are numerous stop-off points along the way with restaurants, pubs and other facilities and services. Bikes are available for hire in Doolin.
In association with Sport Ireland.
WALKING TRAILS
Cahore Point Coastal Walk
Wexford
This trail heads south along clifftop path and beach as far as Old Bawn Beach, returning on quiet public lanes and roads to Cahore Village. It offers elevated views around the point, overlooking beach and dune systems as well as expansive vistas of North Wexford’s stunning coastline both south and north, extending as far as Wicklow Head on a clear day.
Stop and marvel at the magnificent Tudor Gothic country house of Cahore Castle also visible from the trail. On the coastal section away from the sound of traffic you can enjoy the sound of the waves lapping on the shore and birds calling as well as the fresh salty coastal air.
In association with Sport Ireland.
WALKING TRAILS
Erris Head Loop
Mayo
Spectacular scenery abounds on this walk which takes you on grassy paths, earth banks and open ground around the steep cliffs of the rugged and beautiful Erris Head. You will encounter sheep grazing and a rich biodiversity of flora and fauna including nesting seabirds on the sea cliffs. There is a World War II Erris Head EIRE sign and lookout post – perhaps to inform potential invaders.
In association with Sport Ireland.
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