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Explore Dublin and Wicklow’s historic trails under the glow of a full moon. This 2.5-hour guided walk combines ancient landmarks, coastal views, and expert storytelling for a unique night hiking experience.
Explore Dublin and Wicklow’s historic trails under the glow of a full moon. This 2.5-hour guided walk combines ancient landmarks, coastal views, and expert storytelling for a unique night hiking experience.
Book with Hilltoptreks
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Hilltoptreks · Dublin, County Dublin
When the full moon rises over Dublin and Wicklow’s rolling landscapes, a special kind of magic unfolds on the Full Moon Walk departing from Shankill. This guided 2.5-hour trek invites adventurers of all fitness levels to discover the area's lesser-known historic sites and breathtaking coastal views bathed in moonlight. Starting from the cozy, welcoming Brady’s Pub in Shankill, the journey ventures along the renowned Dublin Mountain Trail, a gateway to Ireland’s rich past and stunning natural beauty.
The route weaves through striking landmarks like Rath Michael, an ancient monastic site dating back to early Christian times. Here, walkers encounter the enigmatic Rathdown slabs, Viking-era tombstones that whisper tales from nearly a millennium ago. Continuing along a peaceful forest path, the trail ascends Carraiggollogan Hill, offering panoramic views over the Dublin and Wicklow coastline—a truly spectacular scene when illuminated by the moon’s glow.
Another highlight is the Ballycorus Lead Mines Chimney, a relic of Ireland's industrial heritage nestled amid serene woodland. The well-maintained trail is easy underfoot, making it accessible for most walkers while still delivering a rewarding outdoor experience. Seasonal shifts bring varied scenery—from the bursting greens of spring to the fiery colors of autumn—enhancing the walk’s appeal year-round.
Beyond the spectacular sights, this walk distinguishes itself through knowledgeable guides who share local history, folklore, and ecological insights. Their expertise enriches the experience, bringing the landscape to life with stories that connect participants to the land and its legacy.
Conveniently located just 30 minutes south of Dublin city center, Shankill is accessible by car, bus routes (84/a, 145, 155), and the DART coastal train, making it an ideal escape from urban life for locals and visitors alike. Bringing a headlamp or handheld torch is essential for this after-dark adventure, alongside weather-appropriate layers, sturdy footwear, and a snack to enjoy under the stars.
This Full Moon Walk is a distinctive way to explore Ireland’s outdoor heritage—combining natural beauty, historical intrigue, and the singular sensation of night hiking. It’s a chance to experience the familiar landscapes of Dublin and Wicklow from a fresh perspective, making it a standout in the local outdoor recreation scene and a must-book for adventurers seeking enchantment and discovery outside the daylight hours.
easy.
2–3 hours.
Suitable for all fitness levels; basic walking endurance required.
The walk is easy to moderate, suitable for most people, including beginners.
Meet at Brady’s Pub in Shankill, which is the official starting point.
No previous hiking experience is required; the guides accommodate all fitness levels.
Bring a headlamp or torch, sturdy shoes, warm clothing, water, and a snack.
Yes, there is parking near Brady's Pub, and public transport options are also available.
Information about pets is not provided; please inquire directly with the tour operator.
Rath Michael is one of Ireland’s oldest early Christian sites, noted for its Viking burial stones dating from the 10th century.
Walks promote awareness of local heritage while minimizing impact through group size limits and use of established trails.
Hilltoptreks is a Dublin-based tour operator located in Dublin 2, County Dublin, specialising in guided and self-guided walking tours, day trips and private tours across Ireland. Since establishing operations, Hilltoptreks offers a range of experiences that include iconic day tours from Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher and Galway, heritage trips to Newgrange and the Boyne Valley, scenic drives through Wicklow and Glendalough, and multi-day self-guided routes such as the Beara Way, Wicklow Way, Sheep’s Head Way and the Kerry Way. All itineraries are created to highlight natural landscapes, cultural heritage and easy logistics. Day tours include local pick-ups and visits to historically important sites like Newgrange, Trim Castle and Glendalough monastic site. Self-guided walking holidays feature daily luggage transfers, detailed route notes and access to local accommodation options in family-run guesthouses. Private day tours are fully tailorable for small groups, with flexible timing and tailored stops, including Powerscourt Gardens and film locations. Hilltoptreks works with local guides and service providers in County Dublin and across Ireland to ensure route accuracy and on-the-ground support. Booking information, trip durations and sample itineraries are provided for each trip to help travellers plan. The business lists a wide variety of options: single-day excursions, weekend breaks, seven-day regional tours and longer coastal walking routes. Travelers can choose between guided group departures, private chauffeur-guided days, and self-guided walking packages. Hilltoptreks focuses on clear logistics, local knowledge and authentic Irish landscapes. Customer support and local partner coordination are provided throughout the booking and travel process seamlessly.
Book with Hilltoptreks