Six amazing family-friendly walks in Ireland that are perfect for summer 2026
Schools across Ireland will be off for the long summer break soon.As the season approaches, the outdoor specialist store Trailblazers has rounded up some of Ireland’s best family-friendly walks.From scenic lakeside strolls to forest trails and waterfall walks.The routes offer families a simple way to get outdoors, stay active and make the most of the summer months.The only thing Trailblazers can’t guarantee, of course, is the Irish weather!These six scenic walks Ireland has to offer are in counties Wicklow, Kerry, Donegal, Roscommon, Monaghan and Mayo.Glendalough Green Road Walk, Co. WicklowThe walk is 2.7km long and is an easy stroll, making it perfect for families.It starts near the National Park Information Office.This walk passes through the Glendalough oak woodlands before dropping down onto the Lower Lake.There are stunning views up the valley from the boardwalk, which are spectacular.Public toilets are available at the OPW Visitor Centre and Upper Lake Car Park for added convenience.Wild Nephin National Park Nature Trail, Co. MayoA short nature trail from Ballycroy Visitor Centre with a viewing point over Achill Island and the Nephin Beg mountains in Wild Nephin National Park.It is just a 2km loop and is a beautiful walk for the whole family.It covers 15,000 hectares of rugged wilderness.Facilities include toilets, outdoor picnic areas and a coffee shop.Knockreer Circular Walk, Killarney National Park, Co. KerryEnjoy the scenic view and wander through the historic heart of Killarney National Park.It is a 5km trail on a smooth paved path suitable for both walking and cycling.It has views of Lough Leane and the MacGillycuddy Reeks.Killarney National Park has parking, toilets, cafés and family facilities so you and yours can prepare, refuel and relax.Rossmore Forest Park, Co. MonaghanAmong Rossmore Forest Park’s many enjoyable trails is the Priestfield Walk.The walk is approximately 3km and set among forest paths.It also takes in the Rossmore family crypt for a touch of history.Facilities include a spacious car park, toilets, picnic tables and detailed trail maps so you won't get lost.Glenveagh Lakeside Walk, Co. DonegalThis is a 3.5km non-looped walk from the Visitor Centre to Glenveagh Castle along a mostly flat gravel path.The walk has an estimated completion time of 40 minutes.You can take time to stroll the shores of Lough Veagh, admire the many Austrian Pines, native broadleaved trees and the Owencarrow River.Families can walk one way and return by bus, with accessible toilets at the Visitor Centre.Lough Key Forest & Activity Park, Co. RoscommonIt’s all going on at Lough Key Forest & Activity Park.This is a great choice for families who want walking with extra activities thrown in.Experience nature, activities, and fun all in one placeThe park has various trails, picnic areas, restrooms and family-friendly cycling routes.What to bring for family walksTrailblazers’ Marketing Manager Rebecca Ryan recommends bringing these items for your next family walk.She recommends bringing refillable water bottles, snacks or sandwiches, lightweight rain jackets, spare socks, sun cream hats or caps, small first-aid kit, tissues and wipes, fully charged phone and a bag for rubbish.Want to see more of the stories you love from the Irish Mirror? Making us your preferred source on Google means you’ll get more of our exclusives... To add Irish Mirror as a preferred source, simply click here.
