Is anyone else in need of a blast of fresh air once the days turn short and cosy? A winter walk is one of the simplest ways to blow away the cobwebs, tire out the kids, and actually enjoy the season instead of hiding from it. We asked our readers to share their favourite winter walks for families in Ireland, and here are our top picks.
So grab your walking shoes and your warmest woollies — here’s where to head this winter.
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A quick safety note before you set off
These walks show off some of Ireland’s loveliest scenery, but winter conditions can change fast. If you get into difficulty on a walk with the family, dial 999 or 112 and ask for mountain rescue.
#1. Inch Beach, Kerry
Despite its name, Inch Beach runs for approximately 6.5km, with outstanding views over Dingle Bay. It’s a wonderful spot for a winter’s day out — the kids will love watching the power of the Atlantic and racing through the sand dunes. There’s plenty of parking, and you can even drive onto the beach itself.
Length & Difficulty: 6.5km, flat sandy surface, easy walking for all ages. You don’t need to walk the full length to enjoy it.
#2. Lough Key Forest Park, Roscommon
There are plenty of varied, interesting walks in Lough Key Forest Park, but our readers particularly recommend the Drumman’s Island Trail Loop. It follows the shores of the lake and loops around Drumman’s Island, crossing a couple of bridges along the way, including the pretty fairy bridge. Start at the visitor centre and follow the red signs.
Length & Difficulty: Approx 3.5km, mainly compacted forest roads and footpaths, suitable for all.
For a longer family walk, follow the yellow markers from the visitor centre along the shores of Lough Key and through the forest. Afterwards, warm up with a coffee at the centre.
Length & Difficulty: Approx 4.2km, easy going with a few gentle slopes, suitable for the whole family.
#3. Portumna Forest Park Loop Walk, Galway
“Perfect for a family walk,” says mum Denise — the paths are wide, mostly flat, and there’s timber boardwalk in places. The route winds through the trees to a wooden viewing deck overlooking Lough Derg, where you can pick out some of the lake’s islands and get a sense of just how big it is. On the way back, you’ll pass the duck pond, so bring some oats along.
Length & Difficulty: Approx 1.5km, short and easy with good access for buggies.
Top tip: Round off your walk with a visit to nearby Portumna Castle and its kitchen garden.
#4. Bianconi Loop, Tipperary
A firm favourite with the O’Dwyer family, the Bianconi Loop in the Glen of Aherlow takes you through forest tracks and minor roads. It’s named after Charles Bianconi, who ran a horse-drawn carriage service for post and passengers through the forest in the 1800s, travelling between the Glen of Aherlow and Tipperary Town. The trail is marked from the Christ the King statue in the Glen.
Length & Difficulty: 4km, easy terrain, though you’ll need to descend some wooden steps to reach the trail.
Coillte’s network of forests across Ireland includes marked trails and looped walks in many locations nationwide — well worth exploring near you.
#5. Devil’s Bit Mountain, Tipperary
Legend has it the devil took a bite out of this mountain, breaking a tooth that now stands as the Rock of Cashel. You can access the walking routes from the Devil’s Bit car park in Templemore. There’s a bit of a climb, but the Daly family say it’s worth it for the views across the surrounding countryside.
Length & Difficulty: 5km if you follow the purple arrows. Some climbing involved, but suitable for all family members.
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#6. The Marconi Loop, Galway
The Marconi Loop begins and ends at the Marconi Station beside the R341 near Clifden in Connemara. The wireless telegraphy station was set up in 1905 by Italian inventor Guglielmo Marconi, and there’s plenty of history to explore as the walk crosses the Derrigimlagh bog — made famous when pilots Alcock and Brown crash-landed close to the station in 1919, completing the first transatlantic flight.
Length & Difficulty: 5km, marked with purple arrows, over bog terrain that suits slightly older children and teens.
#7. Bray to Greystones Coastal Walk, Wicklow
How about hopping on the DART, getting out at either Bray or Greystones, and taking a coastal winter walk to the other station? The route is marked from either end with red arrows, giving stunning views across the Irish Sea on one side and Bray Head rising on the other. Keep an eye out for seals, dolphins or porpoises, and seabirds along the cliffs.
Length & Difficulty: Approx 7km from the bandstand in Bray. Well-maintained coastal paths, suitable for families with slightly older children.
#8. Derrycassin Woods, Longford
© Longford Tourism
Mum Sabrina tells us her family loves walking in Derrycassin Woods (sometimes spelled Derrycassan) in Longford. There’s a handy map at the entrance, and the paths are flat and well laid out — ideal for family members of all ages, even those in buggies.
There are a few different routes, including a walk through the walled garden, one along the shores of Lough Gowna, and a walk along the avenue. Keep an eye out for a boat house, the ruins of Derrycassin House, and the remains of a rath (ringfort). With a great variety of trees, including spruce and evergreen, this is a lovely spot for a winter walk.
Length & Difficulty: 74 hectares of forest to explore. The three main trails are well maintained and easy to navigate.
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#9. Dún na Rí Forest Park, Cavan
Photo: Lorraine Teevan
Mum Ruth recommends Dún na Rí Forest Park in Kingscourt, Co Cavan, as a great spot for a winter family walk. There are four routes to choose from, each with its own highlights, taking in The Ice House, The Holy Well, Cromwell’s Bridge, the Fleming’s Castle ruins, Sarah’s Bridge and Well, animal statues, and the duck pond, depending on which trail you pick.
Length & Difficulty: Each route is between 1.5km and 2km. Well maintained and clearly marked, suitable for families of all ages.
#10. Doneraile Park, Cork
Image: Muster Vales
This beautiful park offers a choice of walks, all shown on a map at the car park. Dad Ken says there’s plenty to spot along the way, including swans, kingfishers, deer, ducks and even fish.
Length & Difficulty: Routes vary in length, with the longest loop around 5km. Paths run throughout, and it’s easily walked by all ages, even in winter. The park does close at certain times, so check before you travel.
#11. Rossnowlagh Beach, Donegal
One of our favourite family walking spots at any time of year. Near both Donegal Town and Ballyshannon, follow signs for the holiday homes and drive onto the beach (just watch out for the rising tide).
The beach stretches as far as the eye can see, with the wild Atlantic on one side and sand dunes to explore on the other. You’ll likely spot surfers here throughout the year, so pack the wetsuits if you fancy a dip.
Length & Difficulty: 2km when the tide is out. You can walk further along the hard sand and even push a buggy.
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#12. Doughmore Beach, Clare
Doughmore Bay in Doonbeg, Co Clare, is a mecca for surfers, and you’ll often spot one or two braving the water even in winter. The beach stretches for miles and is safe for the whole family to enjoy a relaxing winter stroll.
Length & Difficulty: 4.5km of sandy surface, ideal for all the family.
#13. Jenkinstown Woods, Kilkenny
Mum Tina tipped us off about the walled garden loop walk in Jenkinstown Woods, Kilkenny. There are other routes to try too, all marked on a map in the main car park. Keep an eye out for wildlife, interesting trees and plants along the way. Public toilets are available on site.
Length & Difficulty: The Walled Garden loop is approx 3km, on signposted, well-kept paths.
#14. Phoenix Park, Dublin
Mum Anne wanted us to mention the Phoenix Park in Dublin. As one of the largest enclosed urban parks in any European city, it’s a wonderful spot for a winter family walk.
Keep an eye out for Áras an Uachtaráin (home of the President), the People’s Gardens, the Magazine Fort, Dublin Zoo, and of course the park’s wild deer. If you’re trying to spot Rudolph, this one belongs on your list.
Length & Difficulty: A vast park with paved walkways and grassland — easy terrain suitable for all ages.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What should we bring on a winter family walk?
Layer up with warm, waterproof clothing, sturdy footwear, and a flask of something hot. Pack snacks, a change of socks for little ones, and a fully charged phone in case you need to check directions or call for help.
Are these walks suitable for buggies?
Several of them are, including Portumna Forest Park, Derrycassin Woods, and the flat sandy stretches of beaches like Inch and Rossnowlagh. Others involve some climbing or uneven ground, so check the length and difficulty notes for each walk before you head out.
What if we get into difficulty on a winter walk?
If you or a family member gets into trouble while out walking, dial 999 or 112 and ask for mountain rescue. It’s always worth telling someone else your planned route and expected return time before you set off.
Do we need to book or pay to visit these walks?
Most of these walks are free to access, though some forest parks and visitor centres may have parking or facility charges, and opening times can vary by season. It’s worth checking directly with each site before you travel.
Related Articles
- Our Pick of the Best Autumn Walks for Families in Ireland
- Fantastic Forest Parks in Ireland Perfect for Families
- 10 Great Family Walks in Dublin
- 20 Fun Things to Do with Kids on the Wild Atlantic Way
- 11 Top Activities, Adventures and Things to Do in Tipperary
Before You Go
Fancy more days out like this? Browse our full collection of family walks and outdoor adventures, and save your favourites for a rainy — or frosty — day.
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