Walking Festivals in Ireland
The wild Irish landscape has beckoned wanderers for centuries, but it was only two decades ago that the country’s walking festivals began to formalize this ancient tradition. Born when several walking clubs joined forces to retrace the historic 500 km journey of Gaelic Lord Donal Cam O’Sullivan Beare, who in 1602 fled from his stronghold on Dursey Island to Lough Neagh while battling Queen Elizabeth I’s forces, these festivals now offer a considerably more peaceful experience.
Today’s walkers can enjoy Ireland’s breathtaking terrain without the need to forage for sustenance or to fend off Elizabethan soldiers. Here is our round‑up of confirmed walking festivals for 2025:
| Festival | Dates | Location | Cost From |
|---|---|---|---|
| Causeway Coast & Glens Walking Festival | 14th‑16th March 2025 | Causeway Coast & Glens | £10 |
| Wander Wild Festival | 4th ‑ 6th April 2025 | Killarney National Park | €10 |
| Connemara Mountain Walking Festival | 2nd ‑ 4th May 2025 | Leenane, Co. Galway | €40 |
| Kerry Camino Walking Festival | 2nd ‑ 4th May 2025 | Tralee, Co. Kerry | €50 |
| Slieve Bloom Walking Festival | 3rd ‑ 5th May 2025 | Kinnitty, Co. Offaly | €5 |
| Castlebar International 4 Days’ Walks | 3rd July to 6th July 2025 | Castlebar, Ireland | Information unavailable |
| The North Leitrim Glens Hill Walking Festival | April 2025 TBC | Leitrim, Ireland | Information unavailable |
| Sperrins & Killeter Walking Festival | March 2025 | Sperrins & Killeter, Ireland | Information unavailable |
| Carlow Autumn Walking Festival | Autumn 2025 TBC | Carlow, Ireland | Information unavailable |
| Women With Altitude | 9th ‑ 11th May 2025 | Donard Park Newcastle, Northern Ireland | €80 ‑ €100 |
| Féile na Sléibhte | August 2025 TBC | Information unavailable | Information unavailable |
| Castlerock Walkfest | August 2025 TBC | Castlerock, Northern Ireland | Information unavailable |
| Wee Binnian Walkers Hillwalkers Festival | September 2025 TBC | Mourne and Cooley Mountains | £10 |
| Burren Peaks Walking Festival | September 2025 TBC | Ballyvaughan near Galway, Ireland | Information unavailable |
| Ballyhoura Walking Festival | October 2025 TBC | Kilfinane, Co. Limerick | Information unavailable |
Causeway Coast & Glens Walking Festival
Dates: 14th‑16th March 2025
Location: Causeway Coast & Glens
Cost: £10 per walk
The Causeway Coast and Glens Walking Festival returns for Spring 2025. Discover a selection of three iconic routes in the Causeway Coast & Glens, coupled with interesting themes to explore along the way. The three events are as follows:
- Causeway Coast and Glens Walking Festival – Tales & Stories of Bun Abhainn Doinne (6 km)
- Causeway Coast and Glens Walking Festival – The Broad Peak (9 km)
- Causeway Coast and Glens Walking Festival – In Shane’s Footsteps (10 km)
Please note that dogs are not permitted on these walks due to the nature of the landscape, which includes areas with livestock.
Official Website & Booking: https://visitcausewaycoastandglens.com/whats-on/causeway-coast-glens-walking-festival
Connemara Mountain Walking Festival
Dates: 2nd ‑ 4th May 2025
Location: Leenane, County Galway
Cost: €75 Full Weekend Ticket, €40 Saturday Ticket, €40 Sunday Ticket
This festival offers a unique combination of mountain and sea experiences, with walks designed for all levels of ability. Participants can enjoy the beautiful scenery, nature, history, and geology along the Wild Atlantic Way. The festival includes a team of professional mountain guides, transport to and from the walks, maps, a small souvenir, and tea and scones at the end of the walks. Friday evening entertainment and the end‑of‑festival Cèilidh are also part of the experience.
One unique element of this festival is the involvement of local farmers in guiding the walks. These knowledgeable guides share their insights into the area’s folklore, history, and natural environment, providing a truly authentic Connemara experience.
Official Website & Booking: https://connemaramountainwalkingfestival.com/
Slieve Bloom Walking Festival
Dates: 3rd ‑ 5th May 2025
Location: Kinnitty, Co. Offaly
Cost: €5 per walk for non‑members, €20 for a festival and annual subscription (individual), or €30 for a festival and annual subscription (family)
The 29th Annual Slieve Bloom Walking Festival will take place over the May Bank Holiday weekend. The festival provides a variety of guided walks through the picturesque Slieve Bloom Mountains in the heart of Ireland. Walkers can choose from a range of routes, including woodland trails, riverside rambles, and hikes through the gentle rolling hills. Experienced walk leaders accompany each group, sharing their knowledge of the area’s history, geology, and wildlife.
Official Website & Booking: https://slievebloom.ie/whats-on/walking-festival
Wander Wild Festival
Dates: 4th ‑ 6th April 2025
Location: Killarney National Park
Cost: Ticket prices range from €10 to €100 depending on the event, with a number of free events included
Wander Wild Festival is Ireland’s Great Outdoors Festival. This festival offers a variety of activities for all levels of adventurers, from adrenaline‑pumping thrills to mindful escapes.
Activities include:
- Conquering Ireland’s highest peak at Carrauntoohil – Challenge yourself with a hike to the summit of Carrauntoohil, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
- Rock climbing in the Gap of Dunloe – Experience the thrill of outdoor rock climbing in the dramatic Gap of Dunloe.
- Kayaking through Killarney’s stunning lakes – Explore the tranquil beauty of Killarney’s lakes by kayak, surrounded by mountains and forests.
- Wim Hof breathing techniques – Learn and practice the Wim Hof method, combining breathing exercises, cold exposure, and meditation to enhance physical and mental well‑being.
- Sunrise sauna and swim – Start your day with an invigorating sauna session followed by a refreshing dip in a crystal‑clear lake.
- “Forest bathing” experience – Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the forest, connecting with nature through mindful walks and sensory exploration.
The festival also offers cultural experiences, such as local food vendors, live music, and exhibitions.
Official Website & Booking: https://wanderwildfestival.com/
Kerry Camino Walking Festival
Dates: 2nd ‑ 4th May 2025
Location: Tralee, County Kerry
Cost: €150 for 3 days, €50 for Friday only, €60 for Saturday only, €60 for Sunday only
This 3‑day walk from Tralee to Dingle follows the route that St. Brendan once walked. The walk is 60 km in total over the 3 days. Evening accommodations and luggage transfer for one cabin‑sized bag per person per day are included with the registration fee. This is a low‑level trail walk suitable for most people with the ability to walk for distance over 3 days. There will be several guides out with you, plus support cars for anyone who has difficulty finishing the route.
Please note that this event is for those over 18 years old and does not allow dogs.
Official Website & Booking: https://kerrycamino.com/
Castlebar International 4 Days’ Walks
Dates: 3rd July to 6th July 2025
Location: Castlebar, Ireland
Cost: This information is unavailable.
One of the oldest and most celebrated walking festivals in Ireland, the “Castlebar 4 Days’ Walk” is an International 4 Days’ Walk. It offers a variety of road walks of 10 km, 20 km, and 40 km, as well as a ramble of approximately six hours.
Official Website & Booking: https://www.castlebar4dayswalks.com/
The North Leitrim Glens Hill Walking Festival
Dates: April 2025 TBC
Location: Leitrim, Ireland
Cost: Information unavailable.
This festival is a haven for dedicated hill walkers and ramblers, offering a unique opportunity to experience the stunning scenery of Leitrim and its surrounding counties. Embrace the renowned hospitality of the region and immerse yourself in the pristine landscape, enjoying wild walking and fantastic local food.
Official Website & Booking: https://www.leitrimhillwalking.org/
Sperrins & Killeter Walking Festival
Dates: March 2025
Location: Sperrins & Killeter, Ireland
Cost: Information unavailable.
The Sperrins & Killeter Walking Festival welcomes walkers of all ages and abilities, offering a chance to explore the beauty, history, and heritage of these regions. Choose from easy strolls, moderate treks, and challenging hill walks, each providing a unique perspective on the landscape.
Official Website & Booking: http://www.sperrinskilleterwalking.com/
Carlow Autumn Walking Festival
Dates: Autumn 2025 TBC
Location: Carlow, Ireland
Cost: Information unavailable.
Whether you’re a seasoned rambler or simply enjoy stretching your legs and taking in the views, the Carlow Autumn Walking Festival has something for you. With the magnificent Blackstairs Mountains and the picturesque River Barrow as your backdrop, you’ll find a range of superb walks to suit all levels.
Official Website & Booking: https://carlowtourism.com/event/carlow-autumn-walking-festival-2024/
Women With Altitude
Dates: 9th ‑ 11th May 2025
Location: Donard Park Newcastle, Northern Ireland
Cost: €80 ‑ €100
This festival encourages women of all abilities to enjoy the mountains. It offers a variety of activities, including guided walks, workshops, and opportunities to network with other women who love the outdoors.
Official Website & Booking: http://www.womenwithaltitude.ie/
Féile na Sléibhte
Dates: August 2025 TBC
Location: Information unavailable
Cost: Information unavailable
Féile na Sléibhte is a walking and hiking festival with a variety of routes to suit different interests and abilities. It takes place in the scenic Joyce Country and offers a chance to experience the beauty of Connemara.
Official Website & Booking: https://www.galwaycountyppn.ie/events/feile-na-sleibhte-wlaking-festival/
Castlerock Walkfest
Dates: August 2025 TBC
Location: Castlerock, Northern Ireland
Cost: Information unavailable
This festival offers a variety of guided walks, ranging from challenging hikes to family‑friendly events. The routes take you through the North Coast’s Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, showcasing the stunning scenery of the region.
Official Website & Booking: https://castlerockwalkfest.wordpress.com/
Wee Binnian Walkers Hillwalkers Festival
Dates: September 2025 TBC
Location: Mourne and Cooley Mountains
Cost: £10.00 – price varies depending on the walks/events chosen
This festival offers a program of guided mountain and lowland walks in the Mournes, Slieve Gullion, and Cooley Mountains. With a variety of graded walks led by experienced leaders, it caters to all levels of hill walkers.
Official Website & Booking: https://weebinnians.com/
Burren Peaks Walking Festival
Dates: September 2025 TBC
Location: Ballyvaughan near Galway, Ireland
Cost: Information unavailable
Explore the Burren on foot at this festival organized by the Ballyvaughan Fanore Walking Club. With a choice of Grade A, B & C guided walks on both Saturday & Sunday, you can enjoy walking in this unique landscape with its rich geology and diverse habitats.
Official Website & Booking: https://www.galwaytourism.ie/event/burren-peaks-walking-festival/
Ballyhoura Walking Festival
Dates: October 2025 TBC
Location: Kilfinane, Co. Limerick
Cost: Information unavailable
Ireland’s oldest walking festival, the Ballyhoura Walking Festival, invites walkers of all levels to discover the beauty and history of the Ballyhoura landscapes. The festival offers a variety of walks, including challenging hikes, leisurely rambles, and family‑friendly events.
Official Website & Booking: https://www.purecork.ie/whats-on/11172512/ballyhoura-walking-music-festival