9 Breath-taking Hikes Near Tramore: From Doorstep Dunes to Mountain Peaks

When staying in Tramore, you know you have the world-class beach right at your toe-tips, but sometimes you need to stretch your legs a little further. Here you will find your local guide to the walking and hiking trails around Tramore. We are spoilt for choice with a mix of coastal strolls, woodland rambles, and rugged mountain hikes all within easy reach.

Here is our curated list of hiking options, starting right on your doorstep in Tramore and moving slightly further afield into County Waterford.

1. Right on Your Doorstep In Tramore

You don't even need to start the car for these; you can start your hike from right within the seaside town.

The Doneraile Cliff Walk

The Vibe: This is the quintessential Tramore walk. It is a scenic, cliff-top path that offers stunning panoramic views of Tramore Bay, the Backstrand, and Brownstown Head.

The Route: It is relatively easy and short (about 5km for the full loop or a shorter 2km version), taking you past the Coastguard Cultural Centre and down towards Newtown Cove.

Look Out For: The Metal Man. Standing on one of three pillars on Great Newtown Head, this 3-metre tall cast-metal sailor has been warning ships away from the rocks since 1823. Local Legend says if you hop around his base three times, you’ll be married within the year!

Difficulty: Easy.

Google maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/yYYmoQXsEShDCNHQ7

Tramore Dunes Walk

The Vibe: For a completely different landscape, head to the eastern end of the promenade. This 5km walk takes you through some of the highest sand dunes in Ireland, which have been developing for over 5,000 years.

The Route: The trail leads along the sandy beach and back through the salt marsh and dunes. It is a rich habitat for wildlife and rare seaside plants.

Start Point: The trailhead is generally located near the car park opposite the Majestic Hotel, but you can start your walk from anywhere within the town. Just head for the beach and then the dunes.

Difficulty: Moderate (due to walking on sand/shingle).

Concierge Tip: Check the tides before you go! There’s no worry of getting stuck but at low tide the beach is more expansive and easier to walk.

Google maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/cNnNRMiVkQWrSEDs8

2. Just a Short Hop, 10-20 Minutes Drive

If you are willing and able to drive just 10 to 15 minutes, you can access some more truly magical spots.

The Anne Valley Walk, Dunhill

The Vibe: This is a local favourite and a hidden gem. It winds through a protected wildlife area of forest and marshland along the River Anne.

The Route: It is a multi-access, flat gravel path (approx. 5km one way or 9.5km return) connecting the village of Dunhill to Annestown Beach.

Highlight: The awe-inspiring view of the ruins of Dunhill Castle standing guard over the valley. It is also fully wheelchair and buggy accessible.

Location: Approx. 12km from Tramore.

Google maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZcNMRkRhhBbna1nTA

Fenor Bog & Ballyscanlon Forest

The Vibe: Located about 6.5km west of Tramore, this area offers great variety. Fenor Bog is a National Nature Reserve with a boardwalk that lets you walk right over the fen. Just nearby is Ballyscanlon Forest, which overlooks Ballyscanlon Lake and offers sheltered woodland trails ranging from 3km to 4km.

Difficulty: Easy.

Google maps link, Fenor Bog: https://maps.app.goo.gl/G28UEPU6zTNEQxeVA

Google maps link, Ballyscanlon Forest: https://maps.app.goo.gl/zYMf3jHojJWkFmiy6

3. Coastal Adventures, 20 Minutes Drive

Dunmore East Coastal Walk

The Vibe: A rugged cliff path with red sandstone rocks and teeming birdlife (look for Kittiwakes and Fulmars).

The Route: You can do a shorter linear walk to Portally Cove (approx. 4km return), or for a challenge, continue all the way to Ballymacaw Cove (approx. 15km return).

Location: Start at the harbour in Dunmore East, about a 20-minute drive from Tramore.

Google maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/bAksN6EghRr6kTG8A

4. The Comeragh Mountains, 30-40 Minutes Drive

If you want "real" hiking, the Comeragh Mountains are spectacular and on a clear day they are visible from the dunes on Tramore beach.

Mahon Falls

The Vibe: A dramatic 80-metre waterfall cascading down the sandstone cliffs.

The Route: The walk from the car park to the falls is a straightforward gravel path (approx. 4km return), making it very accessible for families.

Fun Fact: On the drive up, look for the "Magic Road" after the cattle grid, where your car will appear to roll uphill on its own!

Google maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Dz2KUdPwS7B9PXe18

Coumshingaun Loop

The Vibe: Often cited as the finest example of a glacial lake (corrie) in Europe. This is a bucket-list hike.

Difficulty: Challenging/Strenuous. This is a 7.5km loop with steep ascents and requires good fitness and hiking boots. The views of the lake and the sheer cliffs are unmatched.

Google maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/bVEeNM2mnQLrZJrZA

Crough Wood

The Vibe: If the mountain tops are too cloudy, go to the base of the Comeraghs near Mahon Bridge. This is a magical woodland walk along the River Mahon.

Difficulty: Moderate (5.4km return).

Google maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/hT5x9FGKK9FA3ym3A

5. The Waterford Greenway, 20 Minutes Drive

While more famous for cycling, the Waterford Greenway is an excellent 46km off-road walking trail.

Recommendation: Since you are staying in Tramore, you could join the trail at Kilmacthomas (about 20 mins away). You can walk toward the Kilmacthomas Viaduct for great views or head toward the Durrow Tunnel.

Google maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/91yM2teMQZoUFrLE8

Make Your Base Camp by the Beach

Tramore isn’t only a destination; it is the perfect launchpad for exploring the wild beauty of the Sunny South East. After a day conquering the Comeraghs or strolling the Anne Valley, there is no better feeling than returning to your own "home away from home" for a hot shower and a cosy sofa to rest your legs while watching the waves, our beachfront apartments offer the perfect sanctuary.

Ready to lace up your boots? Don't wait for the summer rush. Book your stay directly on our website today for the best value rates found anywhere online.