4.3
(3)
36
hikers
01:35
6.21km
20m
Hiking
Hike the easy 3.9-mile Donabate to Portrane Cliff Walk for coastal views, historic Martello Towers, and a refreshing escape near Dublin.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
596ย m
Highlight โข Beach
Tip by
803ย m
Highlight (Segment) โข Viewpoint
Tip by
2.17ย km
Highlight โข Beach
Tip by
3.01ย km
Highlight โข Beach
Tip by
6.21ย km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
3.64ย km
1.91ย km
230ย m
223ย m
193ย m
Surfaces
3.64ย km
2.04ย km
292ย m
223ย m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Wednesday 6 May
13ยฐC
8ยฐC
31ย %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 12.0ย km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Free parking is available at both the Donabate and Portrane ends of the walk. The trail is conveniently located just 30-35 minutes from Dublin City Centre, making it an accessible option for a day trip.
Yes, this trail is considered very easy and accessible, making it ideal for beginners, families, and those with buggies. It features minimal elevation gain and a generally friendly path.
The path is a lovely cliff-top route, mostly composed of gravel and asphalt sections. It's generally smooth and easy to navigate, offering a comfortable walking experience.
You'll enjoy breathtaking coastal scenery with views of Lambay Island, Howth Head, and Ireland's Eye. Notable features include historic Martello Towers, limestone cliffs, and sheltered coves. You can also visit Ladies Beach Portrane, Cliffs Between Donabate and Portrane, Tower Bay Beach, and the Portrane Beach Caves and Rock Arch.
Yes, the Donabate to Portrane Cliff Walk is generally dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially due to the cliff-top nature of the path and to respect other walkers and local wildlife.
The trail can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and summer offer the best conditions for wildflowers and seabird spotting. The views are stunning in any season, but clear weather will enhance the experience of the coastal vistas.
No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access the Donabate to Portrane Cliff Walk. It is freely accessible to the public.
Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Donabate - Portrane Cliff walk and Lady's Walk. While the main cliff walk is about 2.5km one-way, a longer loop option of approximately 12.5km can be explored by incorporating inland roads.
Absolutely! A unique attraction at Tower Bay Beach in Portrane is The Sea Sauna, offering wood-fired saunas and cold plunges into the Irish Sea. The trail also features historic Martello Towers and natural rock formations like The Camels Hump, The Healing Shink Well, and The Bleeding Pig, each with local tales.
The main cliff walk is approximately 6.2 kilometers (3.8 miles) round trip, which typically takes around 1 hour and 35 minutes to complete at a moderate hiking pace. If you opt for the longer 12.5km loop incorporating inland roads, it could take 3-4 hours.
Along the route, you can expect to see various seabirds soaring above the cliffs and hear the soothing sounds of waves. The area's natural beauty supports local flora and fauna, especially during warmer months.
Lovely walk started in the Donabate beach carpark all the way into Portrane and back across the cliff path. Beautiful, fresh day for it.