Are you planning to go on a family holiday in Ireland this summer and looking for some adventure? Getting around Ireland is relatively easy but is made even more special in a campervan. Ireland has an abundance of stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities that are perfect for families, especially with older kids. The best part is, many of these outdoor adventures are completely free! So, why not pack up your campervan and set off on an adventure of a lifetime?
Here are some of the best outdoor adventures in Ireland for families on a budget:
Cliff Top Walking Trails
Ireland is famous for its rugged coastline and breathtaking cliff top views. There are many walking trails along the coast that are suitable for families. One of the most famous is the Cliffs of Moher in County Clare, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean from a height of 214 metres. Another great option is the Slieve League Cliffs in County Donegal, which are among the highest sea cliffs in Europe. The Bray to Greystones Cliff Walk in County Wicklow is also a popular option, with stunning views of the Irish Sea.
Some Cliff Top trail suggestions:
Dunmore East Cliff Walk – Co. Waterford
Plan a visit to the rugged Dunmore Cliffs in Waterford. Set off on the Dunmore East Cliff Walk and break for a picnic at pretty Portally Cove.
Your route can range from a few kilometres to a longer 10km trek, depending on how far you want to go. Take a rest when you reach Portally Cove to the west of the village and listen to the waves crashing across the rocks.
Keep your eyes peeled for red-legged chough, cormorants and kittiwakes and look out for seals in the clear blue waters.
Google Map Link – Dunmore coastal path
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Kilkee Cliffs – Co. Clare
Explore this spectacular stretch of County Clare coastline, marvel at the roaring waves of the Atlantic Ocean and enjoy a unique sense of peace in this remote part of the world.
Take on the Kilkee Cliff Walk along the rugged stretch of coastline, start at the Diamond Rocks Cafe at Kilkee’s West End and follow the cliff path. See the shipwreck site of Intrinsic Bay, the Diamond Rocks that glitter in the sunshine, scenic Foonagh Bay, and check out the glorious views from Moveen Hill, you can choose from a brisk 5km or more challenging 8km looped walk.
Soak up some of the best views in the country in this glorious place. Find the elevated cliff viewpoint 5.5 kilometres west of Kilkee, off the N67 and R487.
Google Map Link – Kilkee Cliffs
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Ballycotton Cliff Walk – Co. Cork
Start off in the beautiful harbourside village of Ballycotton in wonderful East Cork. Grab a cup of coffee and plan your day along the Cork coastline. Find the trailhead beside the Mary Stanford Lifeboat and take in uninterrupted views of lush meadows meeting rugged coast and the glistening Atlantic Ocean.
Gaze out to the ocean and see the ferries sail to Ballycotton Island, home to one of Ireland’s only two black lighthouses. The waters around the Ballycotton Cliff Walk are popular with dolphins, so keep an eye out for pods playing in the waves.
Enjoy a 9.25km walk that takes about 3 hours to complete from Ballycotton and back again via Ballyandreen and country roads. If you want to stay by the coast for the entirety, just head back the way you came once you reach Ballandreen, this route is 7km in total.
Google Map Link – Ballycotton Cliff Walk
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Mountain Rambles
Ireland has many mountains and hills that are perfect for a family hike. The Wicklow Mountains National Park is a great place to start, with a variety of trails ranging from easy to challenging. The Diamond Hill in Connemara National Park is another popular choice, with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. If you’re up for a challenge, you can climb Ireland’s highest peak, Carrauntoohil in County Kerry. The climb takes around 6-8 hours, but the views from the summit are well worth the effort. There are also many multi-day hikes that are suitable for the well seasoned hiker such as the Kerry Way and the Wicklow Way.
One location you may not have heard of is the Wild Nephin National Park situated in northwest Mayo.It covers 15,000 hectares of Atlantic blanket bog and mountainous terrain.
Wild Nephin National Park, established in 1998, is Ireland’s sixth National Park. This is one of the last intact active blanket bog systems in Ireland and Western Europe. It is dominated by the Nephin Beg mountain range and the Owenduff bog.
The National Park Visitor Centre, located in Ballycroy village between Mulranny and Bangor, houses an interpretative exhibition of the landscape, habitats and species found in the National Park, as well as information on the surrounding area. There is a short nature trail with a viewing point which offers great scenic views of Achill Island to the west and the Nephin Beg mountain range to the east.
Additional facilities include toilets, a coach/campervan car park, outdoor picnic areas and a coffee shop. There is disabled access to the visitor centre.
Google Map Link – Ballycroy Visitor Centre – Wild Nephin National Park
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A family favourite – Salthill in Galway
Treat the family to a classic day out by the seaside filled with 99s, picturesque beach walks and a visit to the exhilarating Salthill playground. Enjoy the crisp breeze with a relaxing stroll along Ireland’s longest promenade and appreciate the stunning views of Galway Bay. The climbing frames, swings and rockers are suitable for kids aged from one to 12, while parents enjoy the fresh Galway sea air. The hills of the Burren, in County Clare, are visible across the bay and benches are provided along the seafront.
Travel Ireland with a Luxury Campervan
Ireland has plenty of outdoor adventures to offer families, and many of them are completely free while travelling in your campervan. From cliff top walks to epic multi-day hikes, there’s something for everyone when exploring Ireland. So why not hire a campervan and set off on an adventure to remember? Each of our campers comes fully equipped with everything you need to start your adventure at no extra cost. Craic n campers is based in Roscommon Town and can also arrange transport to and from local bus and railway stations.
