If you’re looking for the best forest walks Ireland offers, you’re in for a treat. From calm city paths to ancient woodland, every walk delivers peaceful moments. And when you pair these trails with a stay at a top hotel and spa in Ireland, the experience becomes even more rewarding.
Best Forest Walks Around Dublin
Bohernabreena Reservoir Walk
Located about 15 km southwest of Dublin, Bohernabreena Reservoir is a peaceful, lesser-known spot that offers a refreshing alternative to the city’s busier parks. The walk begins at a small car park and follows a path along the reservoir, with a mix of riverside views and tree-lined stretches.
The lower trail is an easy 4 km loop, but you can continue along both reservoirs and join the Dublin Mountains Way for a longer 8–9 km walk. The route is quiet and scenic, with views of the water throughout. You’ll pass grassy embankments, stone walls, and wooded areas before eventually crossing into County Wicklow. It’s one of the best forest walks near Dublin when you’re after something calm and flexible, with the option to go as far as you like.
Killiney Hill Park
This 2.9 km loop climb offers sweeping views across Dublin Bay, Wicklow, and even Wales on a clear day. The route is well marked and manageable in under an hour. Don’t miss the seaside cafés in Dalkey or the historic obelisk from 1742 at the summit. It’s rightly considered among the best forest walks near Dublin for combining woodland and coastline.
Phoenix Park
One of the largest enclosed public parks in Europe, Phoenix Park stretches across 1,750 acres of green space. With miles of walking trails, towering trees, and even herds of free-roaming fallow deer, it’s a peaceful escape minutes from the city centre. It’s the perfect pick for a nature-filled stroll without leaving Dublin. If you’re searching for the “best forest walks near me”, this urban oasis offers easy access and natural beauty.
If you're staying at nearby boutique hotels like The Leinster or The Wilder, Phoenix Park makes for an easy, refreshing outing.
Best Forest Walks in Northern Ireland
Tollymore Forest Park
As Northern Ireland’s first state forest park, Tollymore is full of charm and history. It features riverside paths, stepping stones, and striking stone bridges at the foot of the Mourne Mountains. Trails range from easy forest paths to more challenging 8 km loops. The park is also rich in wildlife, and fans of Game of Thrones will recognise filming locations throughout. It’s one of the best forest walks Northern Ireland has to offer, especially for those who enjoy variety and stunning backdrops. After a day of exploration, unwind at nearby Culloden Estate and Spa or in a cosy cabin at Finn Lough Resort.
Best Forest Walks in Kerry
Torc Waterfall Loop
Near Killarney National Park, this 2.7 km loop takes you through peaceful woodland to an impressive 20 metre waterfall. Stone steps guide you up close to the cascading water, with scenic views of Muckross Lake along the way. It’s one of the best forest walks Ireland offers in Kerry - lush, accessible, and scenic. You’ll often hear bird song and feel the spray from the falls. Afterwards, treat yourself to a spa session at The Brehon Hotel.
Why These Trails Are Among the Best Forest Walks in Ireland
Scenic variety
From tranquil reservoir loops and sea views around Dublin, to mountain-framed forests in Kerry, these trails offer incredible variety. Add in riverside walks in Northern Ireland, and you’ve got some of the best forest walks the country has to offer.
Easy to access
Each walk is located close to a town or city, making them ideal for spontaneous days out or weekend escapes.
Something for everyone
Whether you’re after a peaceful stroll or a longer, more adventurous route, these are some of the best forest walks in Ireland for all fitness levels.
The perfect pairing
After exploring the trails, book one of our spa packages and unwind in comfort with a massage, sauna, or hot tub.
Planning Your Forest & Spa Escape
- Dublin combo: Walk in Bohernabreena, Killiney, or Phoenix Park, then unwind nearby at The Leinster or The Wilder.
- Northern Ireland stays: Explore Tollymore Forest and relax at Culloden Estate and Spa or a cabin at Finn Lough Resort.
- Kerry break: Hike the Torc Waterfall Loop and spend the evening in relaxing comfort at The Brehon Hotel.
These pairs ensure a refreshing, well-rounded escape featuring some of the best forest walks.
Ready to Explore and Unwind?
The best forest walks Ireland has to offer are waiting - whether you want city greenery, mountain forests, or waterfall trails. Let nature inspire your next break, and recharge with a spa stay afterwards.
Check out our spa deals in Ireland and book today for a forest escape that calms the mind and warms the soul.
