Kerry Hilltop

Walking

Walking

The Ring of Kerry is perfect for all levels of walking enthusiast from those who prefer to stroll to those who seek bigger walking challenges. The Kerry Way is a mapped and marked out network of walking routes of varying length and difficulty. The Kerry Way avoids the higher peaks and opts for the lower reaches of mountain ridges. At 215km, the Kerry Way is currently Ireland's longest signposted walking trail and also one of the most popular.

A must see along the Kerry Way is Cait na Pluaise Cave, a rock ledge where Cait, a widow, took refuse following her eviction from her home after the famine in the 1850's. Here in this cave she raised her 7 children. She was known by all who traveled the main road, now part of the Kerry Way, as she would run out to beg from passers by. She became known as Kate of the Cave. To this day limpet and periwinkle shells in the deep recesses of the ledge pay testimony to the family's poverty. Etchings on the roof by her children can be seen to day. One of the children, a son, got a scholarship to university and went on to become a teacher. When asked what kind of a house he came from, he would say "I come from a house with a roof of one slate". The cave is located along the Kerry Way at Bracaragh-Coad, between Castlecove and Caherdaniel.

Pluaise Cave

The MacGillycuddy Reeks mountain range is located close by and provides for those who wish to push themselves a little more, including those who’ve set their sights on cresting Ireland’s highest mountain - Carrauntoohill. Carrauntoohill was formed during the Armorican period approximately 250 million years ago., at 1,039 metres above sea level it is the highest mountain in Ireland.

The MacGillycuddy Reeks mountain range is located close by and provides for those who wish to push themselves a little more, including those who’ve set their sights on cresting Ireland’s highest mountain - Carrauntoohill. Carrauntoohill was formed during the Armorican period approximately 250 million years ago., at 1,039 metres above sea level it is the highest mountain in Ireland.
Sneem Hotel & Self Catering Accommodation in Kerry set in the backdrop of the Macgillycuddy Reeks is in the perfect location for a walking holiday in Ireland.


Check out some of the walking routes below.

Owreagh – Derreenavurrig Loop

16km (10miles); 5-7 hours
Open mountain, tarred road and tracks of varying surfaces so hiking boots will be required for this trek. The rough terrain on this walk requires some experience for route finding. This 16km (10 mile) hike has it all – quiet country roads, paths through farmland and forest, and a trek on open mountain. Put on your boots and enjoy the full range of terrain the Sneem area has to offer. Allow a full day (at least 5-7 hours), and bring a picnic. A map and compass, and ability to use them, is also recommended, especially if there is any danger of bad weather. Click here for a map of the hiking trek

Derreenaclaurig - Tahilla Loop

13km (8 miles); 3-5 hours
Tarred road and well surfaced tracks; Loop Comfortable walking shoes or trainers. This is an enjoyable and relaxing 13km (8 mile) walk on quiet country roads and pathways, suitable for most. Deep in Kerry countryside, the route takes you through woods, farmland and coastal areas with stunning views of what the region has to offer. You can enjoy points of historical and geological note, and visit some local crafts. Allow at least 4-5 hours to get the most from your stroll. Click here for a map of this hiking trek

Derreenaclaurig - Derryquin Walk

7.5km (4.5 miles); 2-3 hours
Tarred road and well surfaced tracks; Return Route. Comfortable walking shoes or trainers.This is a peaceful 7.5km (4.5 mile) walk on quiet country roads and pathways, suitable for all. An escape into Kerry countryside, you can relax to the sounds of birds and farm animals, enjoy views of hill and sea, and visit some local crafts. Allow at least 2-3 hours to really let the rural atmosphere in! Click here for a map of this Ring of Kerry walk

Derrynane Mass Loop

13km (8 miles); 3-5 hours
Rough tracks and roadway; Loop Comfortable walking shoes or trainers. This is an interesting, beautiful and varied loop walk in the Derrynane area, incorporating forest, farmland, beach and quiet country roads. Stunning views and historical sights abound. Home of ‘The Liberator’, Daniel O’Connell, Derrynane (Doire Fhionain, St. Finian’s Oakwood) still inspires feelings of hope and freedom. Allow 3-5 hours, and more if you are interested in visiting Derrynane House museum. Click here for a map of this walk and more information Click here for a map of Derrynane Mass Loop