10 Best Hikes in Galway for Every Level
Where better than the cultural capital of Ireland to enjoy this year’s staycation? With rolling green hills and breath-taking coastal landscapes, Connemara should be at the top of your list to explore.
Check out our top trails in Galway. We’ve put together a list of the best hikes and walks in Galway, ranging from easy to difficult. So there’s something for everyone. From scenic walks near Galway city to challenging hikes in Connemara, there are options for all abilities. Whether you're travelling solo or with a group of friends, there are hikes here for every type of trip.
Easy Walks in Galway
Kylemore Abbey
Length: 5.8km
Difficulty: Easy
We’re sure you’ll have already seen that magnificent photo of Kylemore Abbey. It may be one of the most iconic attractions in Connemara and one of the top things to do in Galway for couples. Experience it for yourself with a walk around the beautiful gardens and grounds. These surround the Gothic Benedictine nunnery. Visit the Kylemore Abbey website for opening hours and visitor details.
The perfect place for a leisurely stroll. It’s easy to see why the abbey was first built as a romantic gift. Mitchell Henry built it for his wife Margaret in 1867. The trail is marked easy and can be reached by car in 1hr 20 minutes from Galway’s city centre.
Killary Coastal Park
Length: 2km
Difficulty: Easy
1hr and 15 minutes drive from Galway city, the newly built looped trail takes walkers to the shores of the Killary Fjord. Access the walk from the Killary Adventure Company at Leenane. Enjoy the stunning views of Mweelrea, the highest mountain in Connacht.
You’ll also get a stunning panoramic view of the impressive Maumturk Mountains and Twelve Bens! Spend the morning walking this gorgeous trail route marked ‘easy’. When it’s done, why not opt for taking part in an activity with the Killary Adventure Company. You can try kayaking, gorge walking, or abseiling.
Knockma Nature Reserve
Length: 4.2km
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
On a low hill just west of Tuam, 30 minutes from the city, you’ll find the charming Knockma Woods. The trail used for hiking, walking, and nature trips is marked ‘easy’ to ‘moderate’. There is plenty of parking available at the bottom of the hill and you’ll enjoy great views of Galway and the Turlough Lakes from the top.
Look out for the enchanting faery doors on the trees as you mosey through the large oak and ash trees. Legend has it that Maeve, the ‘legendary Queen of Connacht’ was buried in the cairns at the summit.
Barna Woods Walk
Length: up to 4km
Difficulty: Easy
Located just outside Galway city, Barna Woods is one of the best walks near Galway city. The woodland trails are easy to follow and ideal for families. It is a great option for a short and relaxed walk close to the city. After your walk, explore some of the best Galway beaches nearby.
Salthill Promenade Walk
Length: 2km (one way)
Difficulty: Easy
The Salthill Promenade is one of the most popular coastal walks in Galway. It offers scenic views across Galway Bay and is close to the city centre. It is perfect for a short walk, especially at sunset.
Moderate Hikes in Galway
Diamond Hill Loop
Length: 7.2km
Difficulty: Moderate
For those hikers who like a little bit more of a challenge, the Diamond Hill Loop trail should definitely be on your bucket list when exploring the Wild Atlantic Way from Galway. It's a popular choice for group of friends looking for a rewarding hike together.
There is another lower hill trail, marked easier and is shorter at 2.6km. Park your car at Connemara National Park Visitor Centre. The trail is well maintained with stepping stones, gravel tracks and paved paths the entire way. With gorgeous views of the Connemara coastline and Tully mountain, this is one hike you’ll remember. Discover more walking trails in Ireland beyond Galway.
Portumna Forest Park Loop
Length: 15km
Difficulty: Moderate
1-hour from Galway city, the lovely Portumna Forest Park boast many trails. From as short as 5km and up to 15km, the walking trails will allow you to explore nature and wildlife to your heart’s content! Will you be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the fallow deer, red squirrel or maybe a badger? There are also great lakeshore views and quiet woodland meadows to enjoy. An abbey is situated on the grounds of the park, dating back to the 15th century.
Challenging Hikes in Galway
Benlettery & Bengower
Length: 6.3km
Difficulty: Hard
Located near Clifden, this trail features a gorgeous lake and great views of surrounding peaks. You’ll climb two of the iconic Twelve Bens or Twelve Pins mountain range. This trail though challenging is a short hike for a trail marked ‘hard’. Ensure to take a map with you as there is no marked trail. This one can be rocky, so be careful! It’s definitely a trail for those avid hikers among us.
Glencoaghan Loop
Length: 17.4km
Difficulty: Hard
If you want to experience Galway’s sensational viewpoints, the Glencoaghan horseshow loop is right up your street! This route is quite challenging and recommended for experienced hikers. You’ll reach the summit of 6 mountains – wow! Be sure to go prepared and wear layers, as the weather can change quickly.
We also recommend to start early and take your time. From the summit, you’ll be able to see Crough Patrick and some of the best views in Connemara. Get there by car in 1hr 15 minutes.
Letterfrack & Muckanaght Circular
Length: 19.6km
Difficulty: Hard
Another trail in the Twelve Bens mountain range is the Letterfrack and Muckanaght circular trail. This 19.6km loop is rated difficult and quite tough, so prepare to walk the legs off yourself! With spectacular views, you’ll be glad you decided to take on the challenge.
Before heading out, follow Leave No Trace Ireland guidelines to protect the environment. While Hikes are great adventure and fun you might also want to take a look at our article on day trips from Galway if you are looking for more attractions and things to do with your mates and loved ones.
FAQs: Hikes in Galway
Yes, Galway is ideal for hiking, with scenic coastal routes, mountain trails in Connemara, and walks for all levels.
You can hike in Connemara National Park, Diamond Hill, Killary Fjord, and along coastal routes near Galway city.
Yes, Galway offers easy walks like Barna Woods, Salthill Promenade, and Kylemore Abbey, perfect for beginners and families.
Diamond Hill in Connemara National Park is one of the most popular hikes, offering panoramic views and well-maintained trails.
Your Perfect Base in Galway
The perfect base for exploring the Wild Atlantic Way and the west coast’s beautiful beaches is a four-star Maldron Hotel. After the days hiking adventures, relax with dinner in drinks in our hotel’s bar and restaurant. You’ll have everything you need for the perfect hiking trip!
