Hike the Kerry Way

Day 1: Killarney
Day 2: Killarney - Black Valley, 13 mi. (21 km) | Elevation gain: 492 m
Day 3: Black Valley - Glencar, 11 mi. (18 km) | Elevation gain: 821 m
Day 4: Glencar - Glenbeigh, 13 mi. (21 km) | Elevation gain: 633 m
Day 5: Departure

Day 1: Killarney
Arrive in Killarney – surrounded by magnificent mountains and stunning Three Lakes, in the heart of Kerry. On arrival at your first guesthouse, your host or hostess will give you your full detailed Information packet and will be able to suggest some of the many local restaurants or pubs for food and possibly music. 

Sample accommodation: Abbey Lodge 

Day 2: Killarney - Black Valley, 13 mi. (21 km) 
Embark on a scenic walk starting from your accommodation as you make your way to the stunning Muckross House & Gardens, located just 5 km outside Killarney. From there, continue your journey through Killarney National Park and Esknamucky Glen, passing the iconic Torc Waterfall. Follow the historic "Mass Path" that leads to Derrycunnihy Church. Your adventure concludes with a descent to Lord Brandon's Cottage, bringing you into the picturesque Black Valley, also known locally as A Com Dubh.

Walk details:

• Height gain: 492 m
• Height loss: 487 m
• Max height: 289 m
• Terrain: Mountain tracks and green roads. Can be wet underfoot.

Sample accommodation: Black Valley Lodge

Day 3: Black Valley - Glencar, 11 mi. (18 km)
Begin your journey in the Black Valley, following a scenic route that offers stunning views over a tranquil lake. Ascend to cross a saddle into the beautiful Bridia Valley. Continue your trek as you climb another historic saddle once used for driving livestock to market, all while enjoying breathtaking views of the MacGillycuddy's Reeks, Ireland's highest mountain range. Your walk then takes you along the serene shores of Lough Accuse, leading you to the charming hamlet of Glencar. Spend your third night in the picturesque village of Glencar.

Walk details: 

• Height gain: 821 m
• Height loss: 693 m
• Max height: 383 m
• Terrain: Road walking, grass and gravel tracks, open mountain and bogland can be wet underfoot. 

Sample accommodation: Lough Acoose B&B

Day 4: Glencar - Glenbeigh, 13 mi. (21 km) 
Enjoy a fantastic walk today that can be extended if desired, taking you across the beautiful Blackstones Bridge along the Cargo River and Valley. The route circles around Seán Mountain, descending into the picturesque village of Glenbeigh. The stunning views across Castlemaine Harbor and out west to Dingle Bay are truly spectacular and must be seen to be fully appreciated. Glenbeigh, once a bustling stagecoach stop, is a charming village full of character. Just 2 km further west is Rossbeigh Beach, a must-visit destination. This long stretch of sand, beach, and dunes holds the prestigious Blue Flag status and offers an excellent spot for a variety of water sports.

Walk details: 

• Height gain: 633 m
• Height loss: 760 m
• Max height: 339 m
• Terrain: Road walking, mountain rocky tracks, grass tracks, and forest paths. 

Sample accommdoation: Towers Hotel

Day 5: Departure

Day 1: Tralee
Day 2: Brandon Point, 8 mi. (13 km)
Day 3: Slea Head, 7 mi. (11 km) 
Day 4: Mangerton Mountain, 6 mi. (9 km)
Day 5: Derrynane House and Gardens, 5 mi. (8 km)
Day 6: Killarney National Park, 9 mi. (15 km)
Day 7: Departure
 
Day 1: Tralee
Individual arrival to Killarney. Once you have settled into your accommodation, your guide will meet the group for a tour briefing at 5 p.m. to introduce you to your group and explain the details of your holiday. This is followed by your first dinner together in a nearby pub or restaurant. Later, you are free to enjoy the pubs and their lively music if you wish before returning to your accommodation for your overnight. (D)

Sample accommodation: Rose Hotel

Day 2: Brandon Point, 8 mi. (13 km)  
Today you will hike the shores of the Dingle Peninsula and experience the panoramic beauty of Brandon Point, where Mount Brandon, Dingle Bay, and the vast Atlantic Ocean unfold before you. Keep an eye out for migrating humpback whales and playful bottlenose dolphins in Dingle Bay as you explore the area's rich history, featuring ancient ruins, beehive huts, and standing stones. (B, L)

Walk details:

• Elevation gain: 630 m
• Terrain: Rocky and sometimes wet and muddy tracks and road walking.

Sample accommodation: Rose Hotel

Day 3: Slea Head, 7 mi. (11 km)
Embark on a captivating hike around the archaeologically rich Slea Head, known for its beehive huts and promontory forts. Enjoy breathtaking views from Mount Eagle, overlooking the historic Blasket Islands, which have a literary legacy dating back to the 19th century. Traverse a picturesque Irish landscape with stone walls, grazing sheep, and rugged coastlines, making sure to capture the beauty with your camera. (B, L)

Walk details:

Elevation gain: 216 m
Terrain: Grass tracks with some rocky sections. Gravel tracks and beach.

Sample accommodation: Rose Hotel

Day 4: Mangerton Mountain, 6 mi. (9 km)
Enter the captivating world of Irish legends as you embark on a hike to Mangerton Mountain, a place steeped in folklore and natural wonders. The mountain is nestled within the boundaries of Killarney National Park, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, where ancient forests, glistening lakes, and rolling meadows coexist in a breathtaking landscape. Get to know the famous Corrie Lake, also known as "The Devil's Punchbowl," which is perched near the summit. Your guide will share the intriguing story behind this name, adding a unique dimension to this adventure. (B, L, D)

Walk details:

• Elevation gain: 740 m
• Terrain: Mountain tracks with rocky & uneven sections, can be wet & boggy underfoot. 

Sample accommodation: Killarney Plaza Hotel or International Hotel 

Day 5: Derrynane House and Gardens, 5 mi. (8 km)
Following breakfast, you'll drive 1.5 hours to your next hike at the picturesque Derrynane House. Amble along the coastline, soaking up the beauty of pristine beaches, and make your way to Abbey Island. Along the path, you'll get to hear some fascinating stories about Daniel O'Connell, the famous "Liberator" of Ireland. After a leisurely coastal stroll, you'll venture inland, hiking over the foothills at the western tip of the Ring of Kerry, offering spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and the two peninsulas on either side. If you're feeling adventurous, there's even a chance to take a dip in the sea. Once we're back at Derrynane House, you'll have the opportunity to enjoy some light refreshments. Afterward, you'll head to Waterville for the evening for a delicious dinner. (B, L, D)

Walk details:

• Elevation gain: 132 m
• Terrain: Grass tracks with some rocky sections. Gravel tracks and beach

Sample accommodation: Killarney Plaza Hotel or International Hotel

Day 6: Killarney National Park, 9 mi. (15 km) + boat ride
Enjoy a wonderful boat trip (1 hour) through the beautiful Three Lakes of Killarney. Reach an old “hunting” lodge & start your hike. You then follow a wonderful trail called “the Old Kenmare Road” which takes you through the National Park past the iconic Torc Waterfall and up to Muckross House and Gardens which are the centerpiece of the National Park. From here you will walk back to your accommodation in Killarney visiting the ruins of the beautiful Muckross abbey en route. (B, L, D)

Walk details: 

• Elevation gain: 484 m
• Terrain: Hiking Trails with rocky & uneven sections, can be wet & boggy underfoot

Sample accommodation: Killarney Plaza Hotel or International Hotel 

Day 7: Departure
Your tour will finish this morning after another delicious breakfast. From Killarney, you can connect by bus or train to all major cities & airports. (B)

This hike is designed for those who want a leisure hike with longer stays in one place.

Day 1: Killarney
Day 2: Muckross Loop, 6 mi. (10 km) 
Day 3: Galway's Bridge to Killarney Hike, 7 mi. (11 km)
Day 4: Gap of Dunloe Hike, 8 mi. (12 km)
Day 5: Galway's Bridge to Kenmare, 7 mi. (11 km)
Day 6: Gleninchaquine HIke, 5 mi. (8 km)
Day 7: Blackwater Bridge to Sneem, 8 mi. (13 km)
Day 8: Departure

Day 1: Arrival
Arrive in Killarney – surrounded by magnificent mountains and stunning Three Lakes, in the heart of Kerry. On arrival at your first guesthouse, your host or hostess will give you your full detailed Information packet and will be able to suggest some of the many local restaurants or pubs for food and possibly music. Overnight in Killarney

Sample accommodation: Abbey Lodge

Day 2: Muckross, 6 mi. (10 km)
Today you will be transferred to the start of your walk at Muckross House – a beautiful mansion built in the 19th century and now forming the central point of the wonderful Killarney National Park. From here you follow a circular route around the middle of the Three Lakes – Muckross Lake – a magnificent walk with wonderful views across the lake as you follow through ancient woodlands. At the end of your walk, your transfer will take you back to your accommodation in Killarney. Overnight in Killarney.

Walk details:

• Elevation: 160 m
• Terrain: Surfaced tracks and some rocky uneven paths through woodland.

Sample accommodation: Abbey Lodge

Day 3: Galway's Bridge - Killarney, 7 mi. (11 km)
Today we will transfer you to Galway’s bridge just outside Killarney where you start this stunning hike along the Old Kenmare road and through the Esknamucky Glen. With Views of Killarney lakes and mountains all around this truly is one of Ireland’s premier walking routes. Towards the end of your hike, you will visit the famous Torc Waterfall and continue on to Killarney for your overnight.

Walk details:

• Elevation: 405 m
• Terrain: Possible wet and muddy tracks with some road walking.

Sample accommodation: Abbey Lodge

Day 4: Gap of Dunloe Hike, 8 mi. (12 km)
Starting at the beautiful 15th-century Ross Castle, you take a small boat through the Three Lakes to finish at an old “hunting lodge” at Lord Brandon’s Cottage. Here you can enjoy some tea, coffee, cake, or other refreshments if you wish before starting your hike. As you make your way through the Black Valley, you get a sense of the isolation of this wondrous place. A short climb to the top of the“Gap of Dunloe” is rewarded with a view that has drawn visitors for over a hundred years to this glaciated valley of steep jagged rock and glistening mountain lakes. You continue through the valley and on to Kate Kearney's Cottage where you will call your taxi to transfer back to Killarney.

Walk details: 

• Elevation gain: 323 m
• Terrain: Country lanes and road walking. 

Sample accommodation: Abbey Lodge

Day 5: Galway's Bridge - Kenmare, 7 mi. (11 km)
Leaving Killarney and traveling south today, your transfer will take you back to Galway’s Bridge and Derrycunnihy Church. From here, you walk south following an old “butter road” to finish in the beautiful town of Kenmare. This is a glorious walk into the heartland of the peninsula, yet finishing at the coast. Enjoy your evening in one of the many great bars or restaurants in this vibrant town. Overnight in Kenmare.

Walk details: 

• Elevation gain: 363 m
• Terrain: Possible wet and muddy tracks on country lanes, grass tracks, and occasional road walking.

Sample accommodation: Rockcrest B&B

Day 6: Gleninchaquin Park, 5 mi. (8 km)
A transfer this morning brings you to the beginning of your walk at the famous 2500-year-old Uragh Stone Circle following a quiet country road to the breathtaking Gleninchaquinn Park. This working sheep farm is home to one of Ireland's most beautiful Waterfalls and a stunning location to explore on foot. Your walk takes you through fields dotted with sheep and up to the top of the waterfall with sweeping views across the valley and its glistening lakes out to Kenmare Bay. Following your walk you will be transferred back to Kenmare. Overnight in Kenmare.

Walk details: 

• Elevation gain: 223 m
• Terrain: Rocky and grass tracks, mountain tracks and bogland, and some road walking.

Sample accommodation: Rockcrest B&B

Day 7: Blackwater Bridge - Sneem, 8 mi. (13 km)
Today you begin your walk to the award-winning village of Sneem at the beautiful bridge spanning the Blackwater River. This walk takes you along the shores of Kenmare Bay with great views across the Beara Peninsula and the Caha Mountains. Overnight in Sneem.

Walk details: 

• Elevation gain: 252 m
• Terrain: Rocky and grass tracks, mountain tracks and bogland, and some road walking.

Sample accommodation: Coomassig View B&B

Day 8: Departure
Following another delicious breakfast, you will transfer to Killarney – by public bus or private transfer, which we can arrange at an added cost, where you can connect with all major rail and bus networks.

This tour is the more difficult hike in that daily distances are longer, the elevation higher, and no two nights are spent in the same location.

Day 1: Killarney
Day 2: Glenbeigh - Cahersiveen, 15 mi. (24 km)
Day 3: Cahersieen - Waterville, 11 mi. (18 km) 
Day 4: Waterville - Caherdaniel, 9 mi. (15 km)
Day 5: Caherdaniel - Sneem, 11 mi. (17 km)
Day 6: Sneem - Kenmare, 17 mi. (27 km) 
Day 7: Kenmare - Killarney, 16 mi. (25 km)
Day 8: Departure

Day 1: Killarney
Arrive in Killarney – surrounded by magnificent mountains and stunning Three Lakes, in the heart of Kerry. On arrival at your first guesthouse, your host or hostess will give you your full detailed Information packet and will be able to suggest some of the many local restaurants or pubs for food and possibly music. 

Sample accommodation: Abbey Lodge 

Day 2: Glenbeigh - Cahersiveen, 15 mi. (24 km)
Today’s walk takes you from just outside the town of Glenbeigh, along the northern shores of the peninsula, to Cahersiveen. This walk follows an old 17th-century “Stage Coach” route and gives spectacular views across the Dingle Peninsula. You will pass through old deserted villages, once busy centers of activity, trading with passengers on the old stagecoaches. Overnight in Cahersiveen.

Walk details:

• Height gain: 555 m
• Height loss: 643 m
• Max height: 367 m
• Terrain: Grass mountain tracks with some rocky sections, gravel tracks, and road walking.

Sample accommodation: San Antoine B&B

Day 3: Cahersiveen - Waterville, 11 mi. (18 km) 
From Cahersiveen, you will once again be driven a short distance to the starting point of today’s walk at Coars Cross. From here, you will be walking to the town of Waterville. This walk takes you across the tip of the peninsula with views north over the Dingle Peninsula and south to Kenmare Bay. Overnight in Waterville.

Walk details:

• Height gain: 653 m
• Height loss: 789 m
• Max height: 396 m
• Terrain: Grassy mountain tracks with rocky sections, gravel tracks, and road walking.

Sample accommodation: Klondyke B&B

Day 4: Waterville - Caherdaniel, 9 mi. (15 km)
Continuing from the town of Waterville, you walk around and above the coast to reach the village of Caherdaniel. Glorious coastal views out towards the Skellig Islands and Ballinskelligs Bay await along the route. Overnight in Caherdaniel. 

Walk details:

• Height gain: 336 m
• Height loss: 304 m
• Max height: 246 m
• Terrain: Rocky and grass tracks, mountain tracks, bogland, and some road walking.

Sample accommodation: Old Forge B&B

Day 5: Caherdaniel - Sneem, 11 mi. (17 km)
Continue walking from the village of Caherdaniel, following an old ‘butter road’ to the village of Sneem. The views across the Beara Peninsula and out to the Atlantic Ocean are fantastic. Overnight in Sneem.

Walk details:

• Height gain: 533 m
• Height loss: 547 m
• Max height: 226 m
• Terrain: Rocky and grass tracks, mountain tracks and bogland. Some road walking

Sample accommodation: Coomassig View B&B

Day 6: Sneem - Kenmare, 17 mi. (27 km) 
This morning you will be transferred to Tahilla Church, just outside the town of Sneem to walk to the renowned town of Kenmare. This walk takes you along the shores of Kenmare Bay, with views across to the Beara Peninsula and the Caha Mountains. Overnight in Kenmare.

Walk details:

• Height gain: 733 m
• Height loss: 734 m
• Max height: 213 m
• Terrain: Forest tracks, road walking, mountain tracks, and country lanes.

Sample accommodation: Rockcrest B&B

Day 7: Kenmare - Killarney, 16 mi. (25 km)
You will start your walk from your accommodation through Esknamucky Glen and Killarney National Park to arrive at the magnificent Muckross House and Gardens – about 5 km outside Killarney. After spending some time exploring, you will make your way to Killarney for your overnight. This is a glorious walk. You may a few of  Ireland’s native red deer as you walk through the National Park.

Walk details:

• Height gain: 853 m
• Height loss: 823 m
• Max height: 351 m
• Terrain: Mountain tracks, boardwalks, and green roads

Sample accommodation: Abbey Lodge

Day 8: Departure from Killarney
From Killarney, connections by bus and train are frequent to Cork, Limerick, Shannon, or Dublin.

Day 1: Arrival in Killarney
Day 2: Killarney - Black Valley, 13, mi. (21 km)
Day 3: Black Valley - Glencar, 11 mi. (18 km)
Day 4: Glencar - Glenbeigh, 13 mi. (21 km) 
Day 5: Glenbeigh - Cahersiveen, 15 mi. (24 km
Day 6: Cahersiveen - Waterville, 11 mi. (18 km)
Day 7: Waterville - Caherdaniel, 9 mi. (15 km)
Day 8: Caherdaniel - Sneem, 11 mi. (17 km)
Day 9: Sneem - Kenmare, 17 mi. (27 km) 
Day 10: Kenmare - Killarney, 16 mi. (25 km)
Day 11: Departure from Killarney
 

Day 1: Arrival in Killarney
Arrive in Killarney – surrounded by magnificent mountains and stunning Three Lakes, in the heart of Kerry. On arrival at your first guesthouse, your host or hostess will give you your full detailed Information packet and will be able to suggest some of the many local restaurants or pubs for food and possibly music. 

Sample accommodation: Abbey Lodge 

Day 2: Killarney - Black Valley, 13, mi. (21 km)
Embark on a scenic walk starting from your accommodation as you make your way to the stunning Muckross House & Gardens, located just 5 km outside Killarney. From there, continue your journey through Killarney National Park and Esknamucky Glen, passing the iconic Torc Waterfall. Follow the historic "Mass Path" that leads to Derrycunnihy Church. Your adventure concludes with a descent to Lord Brandon's Cottage, bringing you into the picturesque Black Valley, also known locally as A Com Dubh.

Walk details:

• Height gain: 492 m
• Height loss: 487 m
• Max height: 289 m
• Terrain: Mountain tracks and green roads. Can be wet underfoot.

Sample accommodation: Black Valley Lodge

Day 3: Black Valley - Glencar, 11 mi. (18 km)
Begin your journey in the Black Valley, following a scenic route that offers stunning views over a tranquil lake. Ascend to cross a saddle into the beautiful Bridia Valley. Continue your trek as you climb another historic saddle once used for driving livestock to market, all while enjoying breathtaking views of the MacGillycuddy's Reeks, Ireland's highest mountain range. Your walk then takes you along the serene shores of Lough Accuse, leading you to the charming hamlet of Glencar. Spend your third night in the picturesque village of Glencar.

Walk details: 

• Height gain: 821 m
• Height loss: 693 m
• Max height: 383 m
• Terrain: Road walking, grass and gravel tracks, open mountain and bogland can be wet underfoot. 

Sample accommodation: Lough Acoose B&B

Day 4: Glencar - Glenbeigh, 13 mi. (21 km) 
Enjoy a fantastic walk today that can be extended if desired, taking you across the beautiful Blackstones Bridge along the Cargo River and Valley. The route circles around Seán Mountain, descending into the picturesque village of Glenbeigh. The stunning views across Castlemaine Harbor and out west to Dingle Bay are truly spectacular and must be seen to be fully appreciated. Glenbeigh, once a bustling stagecoach stop, is a charming village full of character. Just 2 km further west is Rossbeigh Beach, a must-visit destination. This long stretch of sand, beach, and dunes holds the prestigious Blue Flag status and offers an excellent spot for a variety of water sports.

Walk details: 

• Height gain: 633 m
• Height loss: 760 m
• Max height: 339 m
• Terrain: Road walking, mountain rocky tracks, grass tracks, and forest paths. 

Sample accommdoation: Towers Hotel

Day 5: Glenbeigh - Cahersiveen, 15 mi. (24 km)
Today’s walk takes you from just outside the town of Glenbeigh, along the northern shores of the peninsula, to Cahersiveen. This walk follows an old 17th-century “Stage Coach” route and gives spectacular views across the Dingle Peninsula. You will pass through old deserted villages, once busy centers of activity, trading with passengers on the old stagecoaches. Overnight in Cahersiveen.

Walk details:

• Height gain: 555 m
• Height loss: 643 m
• Max height: 367 m
• Terrain: Grass mountain tracks with some rocky sections, gravel tracks, and road walking.

Sample accommodation: San Antoine B&B

Day 6: Cahersiveen - Waterville, 11 mi. (18 km) 
From Cahersiveen, you will once again be driven a short distance to the starting point of today’s walk at Coars Cross. From here, you will be walking to the town of Waterville. This walk takes you across the tip of the peninsula with views north over the Dingle Peninsula and south to Kenmare Bay. Overnight in Waterville.

Walk details:

• Height gain: 653 m
• Height loss: 789 m
• Max height: 396 m
• Terrain: Grassy mountain tracks with rocky sections, gravel tracks, and road walking.

Sample accommodation: Klondyke B&B

Day 7: Waterville - Caherdaniel, 9 mi. (15 km)
Continuing from the town of Waterville, you walk around and above the coast to reach the village of Caherdaniel. Glorious coastal views out towards the Skellig Islands and Ballinskelligs Bay await along the route. Overnight in Caherdaniel. 

Walk details:

• Height gain: 336 m
• Height loss: 304 m
• Max height: 246 m
• Terrain: Rocky and grass tracks, mountain tracks, bogland, and some road walking.

Sample accommodation: Old Forge B&B

Day 8: Caherdaniel - Sneem, 11 mi. (17 km)
Continue walking from the village of Caherdaniel, following an old ‘butter road’ to the village of Sneem. The views across the Beara Peninsula and out to the Atlantic Ocean are fantastic. Overnight in Sneem.

Walk details:

• Height gain: 533 m
• Height loss: 547 m
• Max height: 226 m
• Terrain: Rocky and grass tracks, mountain tracks and bogland. Some road walking

Sample accommodation: Coomassig View B&B

Day 9: Sneem - Kenmare, 17 mi. (27 km) 
This morning you will be transferred to Tahilla Church, just outside the town of Sneem to walk to the renowned town of Kenmare. This walk takes you along the shores of Kenmare Bay, with views across to the Beara Peninsula and the Caha Mountains. Overnight in Kenmare.

Walk details:

• Height gain: 733 m
• Height loss: 734 m
• Max height: 213 m
• Terrain: Forest tracks, road walking, mountain tracks, and country lanes.

Sample accommodation: Rockcrest B&B

Day 10: Kenmare - Killarney, 16 mi. (25 km)
You will start your walk from your accommodation through Esknamucky Glen and Killarney National Park to arrive at the magnificent Muckross House and Gardens – about 5 km outside Killarney. After spending some time exploring, you will make your way to Killarney for your overnight. This is a glorious walk. You may a few of Ireland’s native red deer as you walk through the National Park.

Walk details:

• Height gain: 853 m
• Height loss: 823 m
• Max height: 351 m
• Terrain: Mountain tracks, boardwalks, and green roads

Sample accommodation: Abbey Lodge

Day 11: Departure from Killarney
Your tour will finish this morning after another delicious breakfast. From Killarney, you can connect by bus or train to all major cities and airports. 

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