12-Day / 11-Night Moderate 👣

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

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.

Morning transfer and optional hike through the stunning Gap of Dunloe. Later 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 more than worth it.

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.

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.

Today you have two options:

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.

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.

Hillsides and woodland guide you through an ancient landscape, dotted with tiny hamlets. The route passes part of the Parknasilla Resort, and near Sneem you have the opportunity to visit an art gallery and cafe in a woodland setting.

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.

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.

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