Ballycotton Cliff Walk

If you and your pup enjoy spending most of the day outside, pack up your hiking boots and the dog lead for a trek along the Ballycotton Cliff Walk in East Cork. Follow the 9km trail along the cliff face and catch sight of the beautiful coastal scenery, from Ballycotton Island in the distance to pods of dolphins splashing in the waters below. 

Fitzgerald Park

For a more leisurely stroll with plenty of benches available for a quick break here and there, visit Fitzgerald Park in Cork city. Explore 18 acres of polished gardens on the edge of the city with your furry friend and spot the park's public sculptures, waterlily pond, ornamental fountain and more. 

The Donkey Sanctuary

For more animal-themed enjoyment, take a trip north of the city to The Donkey Sanctuary in Mallow. Roam the countryside with your dog on lead and say hello to over 130 donkeys and mules that call the sanctuary home. 

Where to eat and sleep in Cork

Head to Alchemy Coffee and Books with your pup in Cork city for a caffeine boost and a sweet treat. Or sample all different types of cuisine at the Marina Market. If you'd like something a bit swankier and don't mind a longer walk, St Luke's Wine Tavern will host both you and your faithful companion and serves soup, sandwiches, teas/coffees, tapas and (of course) wine.

Photo credit: @marinamarketcork

Stay in the lap of luxury with your pooch at Castlemartyr Resort, where dogs are allowed in the hotel’s private garden suites or self-catering lodges. Just a 20-minute drive from the city centre, relax in the five-star hotel's spa before exploring the country walks nearby. Or head down the road to beautiful Ballymaloe House, a 17th century house built on the remains of a Norman keep. They have a number of cosy farm cottages which are self-catering and dog-friendly. Plus, there are a number of walled gardens across the 400 acre estate that are great for secure scampering.

Tramore Beach

You'll find plenty of dog-friendly spots in the Déise, including Tramore Beach. Bring your pup along for a relaxing walk along its 5km shore and soak up views of Tramore Bay, or opt for one of the cliff walks to see more of Waterford's gorgeous coastline. 

Waterford Greenway

Another feather in Waterford's cap is the famous Waterford Greenway. Taking in sights of Waterford city, Dungarvan, the Comeragh Mountains and more, the 46km route is ideal for all levels of cyclists, but you and your dog don't need to be cycling enthusiasts to explore the Greenway. Choose from one of the many car-free walking routes which are perfectly safe for long walk with your furry friend.

Where to eat and sleep

Once you've both worked up an appetite, visit dog-friendly Grow HQ in Waterford city, an award-winning café and organic garden that serves up dishes showcasing their homegrown produce. They also have plenty of indoor and outdoor seating so stop by whatever the weather. Along the coast in Dungarvan, 360 Cookhouse welcomes four-legged guests, providing treats from their Canine Menu and bowls of cool water.

In Ardmore, book into a dog-friendly room at the Cliff House Hotel or use the kennel service. Togetherness at mealtimes is even on the menu, as doggy can dine with you on the outdoor terrace or in your room.

The Irish National Stud and Japanese Gardens

Kildare may be known as Ireland’s equestrian county but isn't just for horses. Bring your dog for a walk around the gorgeous grounds of The Irish National Stud and Japanese Gardens. Enjoy the serene experience, devised by the Stud's founder Colonel William Walker. There's a lovely café with outdoor seating when it's time for refreshments.

Photo credit: @irishnationalstudandgardens

Donadea Forest Park

Heading north, explore the woodland trails of Donadea Forest Park. Stretching across 243 hectares of mixed woodland, feel at one with your pet and with nature one of the forest routes. A popular trail is the 5km Aylmer Loop, named after the family who once lived on the grounds. Look out for a church, a tower and the ruins of Donadea Castle as you walk. When you've finished, grab a snack from the park's onsite café.

Kildare Village

After working up a sweat on the trails, treat yourself to a spot of retail therapy at Kildare Village. They offer their own dog kennel service so that your pet can chill out in comfort while you browse the shops.

Where to eat and sleep

Set in Naas, Urban Kitchen and Coffee welcomes dogs of all sizes. Take a seat and choose from their selection of sandwiches, pastries and cakes. They also have a dedicated ice cream counter for customers with a sweet tooth, offering delicious ice cream, milkshakes and crêpes.

If you and your little buddy need a place to stay for the night, The Cliff at Lyons love their doggy visitors. Dogs are allowed in bedrooms and if your pet gets peckish, pick up some doggie treats. 

Photo credit: @alfieandlyles

Bray South Beach Promenade

Unsurprisingly, the Garden County makes for a great spot to bring your pup. Let your pet play in the water at Bray South Promenade Beach before walking along the coastline to Bray Harbour. 

Wicklow Way

Although this 129km route typically takes experienced walkers six days to complete, the Wicklow Way can also be enjoyed in small doses. Filled with forestry tracks, boreens, mountain paths and open moorland, ramble through the beautiful woodland with your four-legged friend in tow.

Where to eat and sleep

When it's time to eat, the outdoor area at Dockyard No. 8 has dog bowls and a tap to keep them filled with fresh water. It’s so dog-accessible that there’s astroturf under the tables so your best friend can lounge in comfort. Afterwards, make your way to Brittas Bay and drop into The Bay Café for breakfast or lunch, and enjoy a snack with your pet outside. 

Cap your day off with a getaway to BrookLodge and Macreddin Village. The award-winning four-star hotel doesn’t just welcome dogs, it employs them – friendly in-house retrievers Oscar and George greet you on arrival, and believe it or not, they’re on the payroll.

Photo credit: @macreddin