Struggling to find a great place to bring your pouch for 'Walkies'?
We have the perfect list for you...
There is nothing better than bringing your four legged friend to a new walking spot for some exercise and socialization. Even better than this is an area where you can legally walk your dog off the lead and let them run and explore to their hearts content. It can sometimes be hard to find places in the city to check all of these boxes but luckily we have combined a list of our favourite summer walks for you and your pooch!
Dublin Spots
Killiney Hill Park
Killiney hill not only provides beautiful views of Dublin’s coast but also a gorgeous winding path through the trees and monuments located along the way. You are spoilt for choice between Killiney hill or Dalkey hill located right beside it. This is a go-to spot on the weekends and a great place to socialise your dog. Killiney hill even has a dog friendly cafe where you can stop off for a coffee and a doggy treat to sweeten the deal.
Memorial Gardens, Kilmainham
Want a great off-leash walk for the dog that’s close to the city? Kilmainham has the spot for you. Take a stroll through the beautiful rose gardens while admiring the delicate architecture and extensive tree area. Allow yourself to take a step back into history while your dog explores the well clean and well maintained land.
Ticknock Hill
Ticknock provides 10km worth of forest and mountain trails for you to stretch your legs and soak up the view while your pup can run free. With plenty of accessible parking and an endless amount of smells for your dog, it’s a little slice of paradise.
Dollymount Strand
Calling all beach lovers! It is great to find a stunning beach walk with the restricted selection of beach walks available to our canine friends in the summer months. This beautiful 5km stretch allows dogs on a leash to enjoy the best of Dublin’s charming coastline. Commonly dotted with food outlets during busy periods, it’s a lively, fun spot to explore on a sunny day.
Some of our favourite dog parks to visit are located in Corkagh Park, Clondalkin and Marley Park, Cabinteely. These secure, enclosed areas give your dog the freedom to run and socialise with others while keeping peace of mind for you as an owner. Head down to Marley Park on a Saturday or Sunday to catch their flourishing food market too.
Ardgillan Park, Balbriggan
A stunning walk with panoramic views of the coastline and situated on castle grounds that offer guided tours of the beautiful rooms inside. A great location for off-leash walking with paths stretching for 5 miles providing plenty of choice. With a carpark, wheelchair accesible grounds, a playground and a dog friendly cafe, you really will be spoilt for choice for all members of the family at Ardgillan Park.
Other Amazing Adventure Trails
Glendalough, Co Wicklow
For a gorgeous day out, a visit to the upper or lower lakes in Glendalough is a must! These beautiful trails have varied terrains and breathtaking views along the well-marked paths. Glendalough offers a wide range of walk lengths and difficulties, perfect for everyone (and you can even pick up an ice cream on the way back!)
Kindlestown Woods, Co Wicklow
Kindlestown Woods located, just off the M50, is a hidden gem unknown to most. With the option of a short walk to the viewpoint or a longer perimeter walk, it is suitable for all dogs. These quiet covered woods have a selection of routes and trails to explore. Once you reach the top you can sit and admire the gorgeous view of Greystones below.
Crosshaven Coastal Loop, Cork
If you’re looking for beautiful scenic views this one of a kind trail is a must try! It is perfect for all fitness levels and heaven for all water babies as the coastal path brings you down to a rocky beach. A sunny day, at low tide is our favourite time to visit this walk. Between the beautiful flora and fauna and stunning scenery, we are sure it won’t disappoint!
Beale Strand, Kerry
Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed on many popular walks around Kerry due to the mountain farm animals, but there are still plenty of other areas to explore. Beale strand has an array of forest coastline accompanied by beautiful sandy shores stretching for miles. After your long walk, you can visit one of the many seaside, dog friendly cafes and soak up the breathtaking views of Clare.
Connemara National Park, Galway
These 2000 hectares of rolling grasslands, lush forests and mountains have been described as a dog-lovers paradise. There are limitless areas to be explored and a great variety of hikes to try. This immersive landscape with well maintained paths and wild sheep is facilitated by a visitor centre that is free of charge and located at the bottom of the Diamond Hill trail. Blue trails are recommended for those looking for an easier walk. Anyone looking for something a little more challenging can try the red trails.
Killinthomas Woods, Rathangan, Kildare
Only a short distance from Rathangan village, this walk is made easy with accessible carparks and well sign-posted trails. During summer, you will be met with pretty flowers and a carpet of bluebells and wild garlic. There are a variety of short and long walks that are well catered for with benches and picnic tables placed along the paths. With 10km of trails to choose from, we are sure there is something to suit everyone!
Make sure to keep your canine companion hydrated on your adventures. Shop our range travel adventure range of Travel Accessories or browse our staff favourites.