It is widely known that the province of Leinster is home to some of the most incredible outdoor spaces in Ireland. Our Outsider Map of Leinster aims to equip you with a valuable tool to help you find your next adventure in this breathtaking providence. The Outsider Adventure Map of Leinster shares over 150 hikes, swims, cafés, activities, shops, and pubs. The map syncs seamlessly with Google Maps to provide you with an easy-to-use guide to Leinster on the go!
In this article, we will share 3 of our favourites from each category in The Outsider Adventure Map of Leinster. Whether you seek the thrill of a challenging hike, the tranquillity of a refreshing swim, or the warmth of a cosy cafe, our curated selection promises to immerse you in unforgettable experiences. Get ready to explore the unparalleled beauty and vibrant culture of Leinster, where each recommendation is a doorway to a world waiting to be explored.
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Hikes
1. The Spinc (with a difference)
One of the most popular hikes in Ireland, and for good reason. This hike strikes the perfect balance between accessibility and epic views. It can get very busy on weekends so if you want to try an alternative route we would recommend you take on the Glendalough Red route. This route is slightly longer than the regular Spinc Loop but we think it’s a worthy improvement. On this route, you will still experience some of the best views on the Spinc Route but swap the flat and often crowded lakeside section for a more interesting and less frequented mountain section.
2. Clogrennane Wood
A tame yet beautiful forest walk in county Carlow Clogrennane Wood is an excellent choice if you are walking with young children or just want a short walk after grabbing a coffee in town.
3. Glenbarrow Waterfall
There are several colour-coordinated loops ranging from easy strolls to longer hikes that you can choose from in this valley. If you follow the river you will come to the Glenbarrow Waterfalls which are a lovely place for a picnic or even a swim!
Swims
1. The Cove, Greystones
A favourite of many Wicklow residents “The Cove” is set up perfectly to be your swim spot of choice. Nearby free parking (till 12pm) and a café just across the road. There is a Sauna by Fad Saoil Saunas nearby also making this a brilliant spot for some hot-cold therapy. Excellent for recovery from a day in the Wicklow Mountains. There are steps into the water that are easily accessible at high tide, they are however very slippery and if you choose to use them you should also use the metal railing to keep you upright!
2. Hook Lighthouse
There are two ways to reach this natural swim spot, you can either drive to Slade Harbour or walk to the spot along the Wexford Coastal Path. We highly recommend the walk, it is beautiful. Anyway, back to the swimming spot. It is located around the numbers 11 and 12 which are painted onto the shoreside rocks. You can access it by climbing down the rocks to the side of the arch at mid to high tide. Once in you’ll be blown away by how deep the hole itself is. The gully is 12 meters deep, yet only 2 meters wide making it a must-see for any nature lover.
3. Vico Baths
Everyone who has been there loves the Vico Baths! A 15-minute walk south of central Dalkey and only accessible through a small gap in a wall on Vico Road, this place is hopping on warm summer afternoons and for good reason. The steep, narrow steps down to the sea are iconic and a must-visit if you are in Dublin!
Cafés
1. Firehouse Bakery
Located in the heart of Wicklow town, this bakery and café shares it’s space with The Sportroom a running and cycling focused shop. This makes for a perfect combination as you can browse while you wait for your delicious baked goodies.
2. Catalyst, Bray
Located beside the DART station this is a brilliant spot for a coffee before hiking Bray Head or after a dip in the nearby sea.
3. Roundwood Stores
Popular for good reason. Whether you want a mid-cycle coffee or a post-hike feed the Roundwood Stores is our go-to spot. It is not the cheapest place to eat in town but it is worth every penny! Sugar Mountain is our honourable mention if you want a big feed in Roundwood.
Campsites
1. Blackstairs Eco Trails
This gold-accredited eco-tourism facility offers guests a chance to escape from it all in its unique shepherd’s huts and eco-barn accommodation. You can avail of foraging walks and Celtic Tree trails if you don’t fancy venturing too far from your hut. However, there are also a host of more strenuous hikes across the Blackstairs Mountains and the Barrow Valley which are also close by. A nearby lake is the perfect spot to cool off or even try your hand at kayaking. And the action doesn’t stop there, by night you are encouraged to look upwards for a spot of stargazing which is truly out of this world, thanks to its secluded location.
All bookings at the Blackstairs Eco Trails include an organic breakfast each morning to fuel you up for the day.
2. Wicklow Way Camping
Uniquely located with stunning views of the Wicklow mountains, this campsite offers a combination of fantastic scenery and thoughtfully designed pitches.
The Complete Guide to Camping in Wicklow
3. Bective Mill Glamping
Nestled in the scenic Boyne Valley, our enchanting glamping site offers a serene escape. Unwind by the Boyne River, explore lush countryside, and relax in cozy glamping accommodations. Whether it’s a romantic glamping getaway or a chance to recharge, our idyllic glamping haven awaits. Experience the magic of glamping, where nature’s embrace invites you to reconnect with what truly matters.
Activities
1. Biking.ie
Just a 30-minute drive away from Dublin city centre, at the foothills of the Three Rock Mountain, you’ll find Ticknock Mountain Bike Trails.
Ticknock is a cracking place to get out for a speedy spin, and they have all the services at hand that you might need to avail of. Bike rental, café, repair centre, guided tours, lessons, bike wash and a shop – they’ve got it all.
The total length of the trail system is 13 km, but it’s no problem to chop up the course whichever way you prefer (read: you can repeat that specific technical part an unlimited amount of times until you’ve nailed it). The trails start off on the Tarmac Road at the car park and go straight up to the first eight single track trails, which then loop their way down the mountain.
As the terrain is quite technically challenging, it could be a good idea to master for example the Ballinastoe Mountain Bike Trails in County Wicklow first (see number 3).
However, if you are looking for some high-speed action with plenty of technical features, then you and Ticknock will be a perfect match!
2. Go With The Flow
There is no better way to immerse yourself in nature and forget your woes than by packing your gadgets away, piling all you need into a Canadian canoe and paddling down a river. It is the ultimate digital detox from a world that is far too caught up with material things. A three-day canoe trip down the River Barrow with Go with the Flow, wild camping as you go, will feel like a two-week holiday.
3. Great Saltee
The Saltee Islands, composed of Great Saltee and Little Saltee off Ireland’s southeastern coast, are pristine havens for wildlife, particularly seabirds. Great Saltee, a designated Special Protection Area, hosts one of the world’s largest gannet colonies and various bird species. Accessible from Kilmore Quay, the islands attract nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers. Rich in marine life, the surrounding waters enhance their ecological importance. Historical remnants, including a 16th-century church and a Martello tower, add cultural significance. Nature trails on Great Saltee provide picturesque views of the Irish Sea, offering a serene escape into unspoiled natural beauty.
Pubs
1. The Glenmalure Lodge
The Glenmalure Lodge has got to be one of our favourite pubs in Ireland. Every weekend this pub is a haven for hikers, cyclists and other outdoor enthusiasts. Weiry bodies convene here to huddle around the fire, eat a hearty lunch and reminisce about the adventure they have had that day. There is also some accommodation in the lodge making it an excellent option for a weekend escape to the hills.
2. The Blue Light
Our favourite Dublin Mountain pub is the Blue Light. Located on the side of Three Rock mountain, The Blue Light serves up amazing views over Dublin Bay, delicious pints and a cozy feel that is welcome after a day of hiking or biking on Dublin’s favourite hill.
3. Sean’s Bar
Located in the heart of Ireland, Athlone, Sean’s Bar is said to be the oldest pub in the world. It is worth a visit for that reason alone. This pub is homely and traditional without feeling in any way fake. They also serve a mean pint of Guinness!
Shops
1. Great Outdoors
Founded in 1976, Great Outdoors is one of the oldest and best outdoor sports shops in Ireland. Located on George’s Street in the heart of Dublin City, Great Outdoors stock everything you could need for an epic adventure in Ireland or abroad. Their one-on-one boot fitting service is second to none.
Great Outdoors Boot Fitting Service
2. The Sportsroom
The best shop for runners and cyclists in Wicklow. We give The Sportroom this bold title as it is not only an excellent shop but it is also connected to one of our top cafés in Leinster, Firehouse Bakery. In the Sportroom you can browse a wide range of products, talk to the expert staff and be fitted for a new pair of shoes all while enjoying a delicious coffee from next door.
3. 53 Degrees North
With locations in Carrickmines, Blanchardstown and Cork. 53 Degrees North stocks a great range of products to get you outdoors no matter what your preferred activity is. They also have the 53 Degrees North Adventure Club who organize hikes and other adventures for members regularly.
Outsider.ie Adventure Map of Leinster
Our Adventure Map of Leinster is your ultimate guide to Leinster. The map includes all the stops you need to plan the perfect trip. It includes where to hike, swim, eat, stay and much more. This digital map is a gateway to adventures in your pocket.
- A simple-to-use map that syncs with Google Maps
- Over 150 locations including; hikes, swims, cafés, pubs, campsites, shops and much more
- A route link on all hikes
- Links to Outsider articles related to the locations
- An informative PDF document that explains how to use the map as well as giving you practical advice about the Irish outdoors
- An ever-expanding library of locations
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