Kerry Way: 11-Day Challenging Hike

DAY 1: Arrival in Killarney

From your point of arrival, use the public transport information we provide to make the journey to Killarney.

DAY 2: Black Valley - Killarney

Distance 19km • Approximate Walking Time 5 - 7 hours • Ascent (↑) 420m

A morning boat trip across the famous Lakes of Killarney with one of Kerry's foremost storytellers sets the scene for a fantastic tour. You are soon deep in the remote Black Valley, from where you will hike back to civilisation along an ancient track over the mountains. Stop off en-route at Muckross House & Gardens – the centrepiece of Killarney National Park.

DAY 3: Black Valley - Glencar

25km • 7 - 10 hours • (↑) 810m

Morning transfer to the Black Valley to continue your walk. Today, you are more likely to meet sheep than humans as you enter some of the most rugged countryside that Ireland has to offer. Two sharp ridges will get those leg muscles working overtime but, as ever, the views are worth it.

DAY 4: Glencar - Glenbeigh

13km/18km • 4 - 7 hours • (↑) 340m/410m

Enter the Caragh river valley before following a rough path through the enchanting Lickeen Forest. A track junction allows you to choose one of two routes around Seefin Mountain. Don’t worry, they’re both beautiful!

DAY 5: Glenbeigh - Foilmore

20km • 5 - 7 hours • (↑) 425/550m

You have the choice to visit the beautiful Rossbeigh Strand before an old coach path takes you around Drung Hill where you pass above the old railway viaduct - a reminder of old local trade routes. Descend into the Ferta River Valley and continue to Foilmore.

DAY 6: Foilmore - Waterville

22km • 6 - 8 hours • (↑) 850m

You don’t climb to any great height on today’s walk but nonetheless it may be one of the more demanding walks on your itinerary. One of Ireland’s most westerly towns, Waterville enjoys spectacular sunsets. Look out for the statue of Charlie Chaplin next to the beach.

DAY 7: Waterville - Caherdaniel - Option 1

13-16km • 4 - 5 hours • (↑) 350m

Hallelujah! After several days of hiking, your feet may just decide that this short walk is exactly what the doctor ordered. With the Atlantic Ocean to your right and Lough Currane to the left, this is one of Ireland's most beautiful coastal walks. If you choose to follow the Derrynane Mass Path you can even dip your toes into the sea at one of the beautiful beaches along the way.

DAY 7: Waterville - Caherdaniel - Option 2

28km • 7 - 10 hours • (↑) 960m

If you are still feeling sufficiently energetic, this majestic route will both test your resolve and fully repay your efforts. After climbing to Windy Gap, the highest point on the Kerry Way, a gentle descent into Caherdaniel gives you ample time to enjoy the spectacular scenery.

DAY 8: Caherdaniel - Sneem

17km • 4 - 6 hours • (↑) 440m

The route today follows an old track used to transfer butter to Cork in the 19th Century. Staigue ringfort, one of Ireland’s finest historical sites dating back around 2,000 years, is located just off the Way and is certainly worth the short detour.

DAY 9: Sneem - Kenmare

32km • 7 - 10 hours • (↑) 690m

After crossing the fast-flowing Blackwater River, you descend to the shore of Kenmare Bay – a lovely setting for a picnic with views across to the Beara Peninsula. Kenmare itself is a pretty market-town with a lively pub scene and some fantastic places to eat.

DAY 10: Kenmare - Killarney

24km • 6 - 8 hours • (↑) 675m

This walk is a lovely way to finish your tour. Follow the quiet Old Kenmare Road up into the hills and then onwards into Esknamucky Glen, where you may even spot some Irish Red Deer. From here you will retrace your walk from Day 2 through the Glen, past Torc Waterfall, Muckross Abbey and onwards into Killarney.

DAY 11: Departure from Killarney

There are regular bus and train services from Killarney. Full details provided upon booking.