Kerry Way: 8-Day Gentle Hike

DAY 1: Arrival in Glenbeigh.

From your point of arrival, use the public transport information we provide to make the journey to Killarney. From Killarney, the last bus to Glenbeigh departs at 15:00. There is no bus on Sundays.

DAY 2: Glencar to Glenbeigh

Distance 13/18km • Approximate Walking Time 4 - 7 hours • Ascent (↑) 340/410m

You will be transferred this morning to the famous Climber's Inn at Glencar. A track junction allows you to choose one of two routes around Seefin Mountain. Whichever one you take, they’re both beautiful!

DAY 3: Glenbeigh (Mountain Stage) - Foilmore

14km • 4 - 6 hours • (↑) 280m

An old coach path takes you around Drung Hill to a pass above the old railway viaduct - a reminder of old local trade routes. Descend into the Ferta River Valley and continue to Foilmore.

DAY 4: Foilmore (Coars Cross) - Waterville

18km • 5 - 7 hours • (↑) 580m

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 5: Waterville - Caherdaniel

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 6: Caherdaniel - Sneem

17km • 4 - 6 hours • (↑) 420m

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 7: Blackwater - Kenmare

20km • 5 - 7 hours • (↑) 460m

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 8: Depart from Kenmare

There is a regular bus service from Kenmare to Killarney (except on Saturday/Sunday from Sept to June). From Killarney, continue on to Dublin, Cork or Limerick by bus or by train. Full details provided upon booking.