Eight of the Best Autumn Walks in Ireland

There’s something about autumn that makes getting outside feel particularly refreshing. The air gets a little crisper, the leaves turn shades of red, orange and gold, and even your usual walk can feel completely different.

Whether you’re looking to clear your head, get your body moving or simply make the most of the autumn colours, a good walk can be an easy way to step away from the day-to-day for a while.

Luckily, Ireland has no shortage of places to do exactly that. From colourful woodland trails to lakeside paths and mountain views, here are eight autumn walks worth adding to your list.

1. Glendalough, Co. Wicklow

Few places capture autumn quite like Glendalough. Surrounded by the Wicklow Mountains, its lakes, woodland and historic monastic site make it one of Ireland’s most popular walking destinations for good reason.

There are several trails to choose from, so you don’t necessarily need to commit to a full day of hiking. The Green Road Walk provides a relatively easy route through the valley, while those looking for more of a challenge can explore some of the longer marked trails around the lakes and surrounding hills.

In autumn, the changing woodland makes the area particularly picturesque, especially around the Lower and Upper Lakes.

2. Killarney National Park, Co. Kerry

With more than 10,000 hectares of mountains, lakes and woodland, there are plenty of ways to explore Killarney National Park on foot.

One of the most accessible options is the walk around Muckross House and Gardens, where you can wander through woodland and enjoy views across Muckross Lake. For a longer outing, there are numerous walking trails extending throughout the park.

The mix of native woodland, lakes and mountain scenery makes Killarney especially impressive as the seasons begin to change.

Keep an eye out for the park’s wildlife along the way too. Killarney National Park is home to Ireland’s only remaining wild herd of native red deer.

3. Gougane Barra Forest Park, Co. Cork

If your idea of the perfect autumn walk involves peaceful woodland and plenty of colour, Gougane Barra deserves a spot on your list.

Located in a valley surrounded by mountains, the forest park has several walking trails ranging from short strolls to more demanding routes. Paths wind through the forest and offer views across the surrounding landscape, making it an ideal place to spend a crisp autumn morning.

You can also visit nearby St Finbarr’s Oratory, sitting on a small island in Gougane Barra Lake and providing one of the area's most recognisable views.

4. Connemara National Park, Co. Galway

If autumn colours aren't enough and you want some dramatic scenery thrown in too, head west to Connemara National Park.

The park offers several trails beginning near the visitor centre at Letterfrack. The shorter nature trails are a good option for a more relaxed outing, while the Diamond Hill trails provide a bigger challenge and sweeping views across the surrounding mountains, coastline and islands on a clear day.

Autumn weather can change quickly in exposed areas like Connemara, so check conditions before setting off and come prepared with suitable footwear and waterproof layers.

5. Phoenix Park, Dublin

You don't have to leave Dublin to find a little autumn colour.

Phoenix Park covers more than 700 hectares, giving you plenty of room to create your own walking route. Tree-lined paths, open grassland and the park's famous herd of fallow deer make it an easy option when you want to get outside without planning a full day trip.

It's also a particularly handy choice if you're looking for somewhere you can walk for as little or as long as you like.

6. Emo Court and Parklands, Co. Laois

For a gentler autumn stroll, the parklands surrounding Emo Court offer woodland, lake views and plenty of open space to explore.

The grounds feature walking paths through woodland and landscaped gardens, making this a good choice for anyone who wants to enjoy the changing leaves without taking on a challenging hike.

Pack a warm layer, take your time and make this one less about reaching a finish line and more about enjoying the scenery along the way.

7. Portumna Forest Park, Co. Galway

Sitting along the shores of Lough Derg, Portumna Forest Park combines woodland walking with lakeside scenery.

There are several trails through the park, including shorter options suitable for a leisurely walk. The forest contains a mixture of tree species, making autumn an especially good time to visit as the landscape begins to change colour.

The park is also home to plenty of wildlife, so keep an eye and ear out as you make your way through the woods.

8. Castlewellan Forest Park, Co. Down

For our final walk, we're heading north to Castlewellan Forest Park.

Set around Castlewellan Lake, the park has an extensive network of walking trails with views of the Mourne Mountains in the distance. The woodland surrounding the lake provides plenty of autumn colour, while the relatively flat lakeside route offers an option for those looking for something a little more leisurely.

The park is also home to the Peace Maze and the historic Annesley Garden, giving you plenty to explore beyond your walk.

A Walk Can Do More Than Stretch Your Legs

There’s a reason a walk can sometimes leave you feeling a little better than when you started.

Getting outside gives you a chance to move your body, get some fresh air and take a break from screens, work and everyday routines. Walking and spending time in nature have also been associated with benefits for mental wellbeing, making an autumn stroll a simple way to give both your body and mind some attention.

And it doesn’t have to involve climbing a mountain. A quick walk around your local park or woodland can still give you an opportunity to slow down, clear your head and enjoy a change of scenery.

Before You Head Out

Irish autumn weather isn't always as picture-perfect as the colourful leaves might suggest, so a little preparation can make your walk much more enjoyable.

Bring comfortable walking shoes, a waterproof jacket, water, a charged phone and an extra layer, particularly if you're heading somewhere more remote. For longer routes, bring a snack and make sure someone knows where you're going.

Always check the weather forecast and any local trail information before setting off, as conditions, access and facilities can change throughout the year.

Take Care of Your Health, Your Way

Whether it's making time for a walk, getting a little more active or simply giving yourself an afternoon away from your usual routine, looking after your health can take many different forms.

And when it comes to the bigger things, having health insurance that suits you and your needs can give you access to healthcare options when you need them.

At Chill, we can help you compare health insurance options and find cover that works for you.