ICONIC IRELAND: WALKING THE KERRY WAY

Highlights

Incredible landscapes along the longest trail in Ireland . Varied walking experiences: from forest to coastal trails, from mountains to beaches .

Destinations

Ireland

Budget

From $200 per person

All highlights

The Kerry Way, Ireland . The Kerry Way, one of Ireland’s most celebrated long-distance walking trails, unfolds a captivating tale that winds through the scenic landscapes of County Kerry. This trail, established in 1982, weaves together a narrative of natural beauty, cultural history, and the enduring spirit of exploration. The story began with the idea of creating a walking route that would showcase the diverse beauty of the Kerry region. Stretching approximately 215 kilometres, the Kerry Way takes walkers on a journey through mountains, valleys, coastal paths, and charming villages. It’s a tale of immersion into the heart of Ireland’s southwest, where every step reveals new landscapes. Your self-guided walking holiday begins and ends in Killarney, a town surrounded by the stunning Killarney National Park. But we have chosen to begin the actual walking on the coast beginning in Glenbeigh in the north and ending at Kenmare in the south. As walkers set forth, they encounter a myriad of landscapes, from the serene shores of Lough Leane to the rugged peaks of MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, Ireland’s highest mountain range. Along the way, the trail unveils picturesque lakes, cascading waterfalls, and panoramic viewpoints that paint a vivid picture of Ireland’s natural allure. The Kerry Way also delves into the cultural history of the region. Ancient ruins, stone circles, and historic sites like the Staigue Fort add a layer of mystique to the journey.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Glenbeigh from Dublin and settle in your accommodation

Day 1: Arrive in Glenbeigh from Dublin and settle in your accommodation

Transfer from Killarney to your accommodation in Glenbeigh. Welcome to the Ring of Kerry!. Overnight: Glenbeigh . .

Day 3: Walk from Cahersiveen to Waterville

Day 3: Walk from Cahersiveen to Waterville

From Cahersiveen, walk across turf bogs and pine forests, with some uphill climbs that reveal stunning views of Valentia Island and the peninsula's western edge. A long walking day finishes in lively Waterville, a charming coastal village.. Overnight: Waterville, 25km during the day, with a duration of 7 hours and an elevation gain of 350m. . .

Day 4: Walk from Waterville to Caherdaniel

Day 4: Walk from Waterville to Caherdaniel

Discover the scenic beauty of this trail as it winds along the southern tip of the Kerry peninsula. The day's walk in not that long, giving you plenty of time for a detour to Derrynane. Visit Derrynane House and Gardens, where Daniel O'Connell, known as 'The Liberator' for his important role in Catholic Emancipation during the 19th century, once lived.. Overnight: Caherdaniel, walk 15km, 5 hours, with an elevation gain of 200m. . .

Day 5: Walk from Caherdaniel to Sneem

Day 5: Walk from Caherdaniel to Sneem

Begin your day along the renowned Old Butter Road, which was used to transport butter to Cork in the 19th century. Climb up again near the foothills of Eagle Hill, and take a short detour to visit the ancient Staigue Fort, built from stone in the 3rd century. Your walking trail stays high above the main Ring of Kerry road, winding through rocky paths amidst landscapes dotted with sheep on the way to Sneem.. Overnight: Sneem, walk 19km, taking approximately 6 hours, with an elevation gain of 280m . .

Day 6: Walk from Sneem to Kenmare

Day 6: Walk from Sneem to Kenmare

After a short bus ride to BlackWater Birdge, start your walk towards Kenmare with beautiful fields, forest paths, and splendid views of the Bay of Kenmare. Continuing along the trail with a picturesque view, you soon arrive at the Dromore Castle's gate.. Overnight: Kenmare, walk around 15 km on easy paths . .

Day 7: Departure

Day 7: Departure

Transfer to Killarney after breakfast. .

Prices

Price per person 2 pers 4 pers 6 pers 8 pers
Price per adult $200 $150 $130 $120
Price per kid $100 $80 $70 $60

Services

Included:

  • 6 nights B&B in ensuite 2 person rooms
  • All lunches
  • 2 train journeys : Day 1 Dublin to Killarney, Day 8: Killarney to Dublin
  • Detailed walking notes of the Kerry Wayincluding information about the area
  • Walking maps of the Kerry Way
  • Baggage transfers along the Kerry Way (1 bag per person, max weight 20kg)

Excluded:

  • All dinners and drinks
  • Travel to Dublin, Ireland
  • Local bus transfers
  • Optional visits or tours
  • Travel insurance
  • Entrance fees

Optional:

  • Extra Nights
  • Tailor-made trips

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Salomé Deroyer

Salomé Deroyer

travel expert: England Ireland and Wales

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