Something special happens when the sun sets, and the moon rises to wash the Irish landscape with silvery light. It brings with it a sense of peace, a strong connection to nature and to the ancient peoples who lived by the rhythms of light and dark. Across Ireland there are numerous ways to experience this unique atmosphere – on night hikes, moonlit kayaking or stargazing under pristine skies in the island’s dark sky reserves.
Just outside Dublin you can join a full moon walk along the Dublin Mountain Trail organised by Hilltop TreksOpens in new window.  The walks operate from October to January, its trail rising to overlook the coastline and shimmering moonlit sea. Along the way, walkers pass the monastic site of Rath Michael, one of the oldest early Christian sites in Ireland, famous for its Viking tombstones called the Rathdown Slabs.
Over on the Wild Atlantic Way, moonlight walks are just one part of the outdoor, after-dark experiences on offer. Terra FirmaOpens in new window in County Mayo organises several signature moonlit walks, including a ‘moon walk’, a guided exploration of forest and off-road tracks, and a ‘sunset splendour’ tour which takes participants to vantage points where they can watch the sun set over the Atlantic Ocean. For a uniquely Irish experience, sign up for their ‘Magic, Myth and Moonlight’ tour, which combines stargazing with magic and storytelling by candlelight.
Meanwhile in County Louth, Cooley Night WalksOpens in new window takes hikers up to viewing points over serene Carlingford Lough and Dundrum Bay. Star spotting and keeping an ear out for local nocturnal wildlife, such as hedgehogs, foxes, or owls, is part of the adventure. A gentle hike suitable for all abilities, it ends with a light supper served at Barnavave Peak, lovingly made by local chefs using seasonal ingredients.
Kayaking around Ireland’s coastline is always an exhilarating activity but add in an after-dark dimension and it becomes a truly memorable experience. Atlantic Sea KayakingOpens in new window offers night kayaking tours at two beautiful, sheltered locations along Ireland’s south coast. Being out on the water from dusk to darkness enhances the senses and frees the mind. From April to October, lucky visitors may also spot sparkling bioluminescence, a breath-taking natural phenomenon caused by plankton glowing in the water. Family night tours are available for adults and teens sharing double kayaks.
Alternatively, take in the wonders of the night sky at one of Ireland’s three dark sky reserves, perfect for stargazers hoping to catch a glimpse of celestial events. From the OM Dark Sky Park and ObservatoryOpens in new window in County Tyrone, to the Mayo International Dark Sky ParkOpens in new window and Kerry International Dark Sky ReserveOpens in new window on the Iveragh Peninsula, these areas – free from artificial light – allow viewers to see remarkable constellations with the naked eye
