Located on the Wild Atlantic Way, County Kerry has some of the most beautiful walking routes in the whole country. Whether you are an avid hiker or someone that prefers meandering along at a slower pace, Kerry has tracks and trails to suit every level of walker.
In this blog, we share some items we find useful when going for a hike and we’ve also shared some different walks for you to explore around County Kerry. Time to Explore the Kingdom and Discover You!
- Hiking boots – ideally these should be worn-in a little before embarking on a long walk to ensure they are comfortable and your feet don’t get sore along the way. A waterproof boot that offers good support to the ankle is advisable and don’t forget your hiking socks!
- As the weather in Ireland is sometimes a little unpredictable we always like to bring a pair of waterproof pants and a jacket as well as sun protection!
- A small rucksack with shoulder padding is recommended to carry the items you will need throughout your journey.
- Depending on the level of walk you are undertaking, trekking poles are a great tool to bring along.
- A physical map or some kind of navigation system on a smartphone to ensure that you don’t get lost.
- Water and snacks, bananas, and fruit provide a great source of energy and are generally light to carry.
- Small first aid kit
Kerry Camino
Tralee to Dingle Peninsula
The Kerry Camino is a Tralee initiative to promote walking in the area, specifically the walk known also as The Dingle Way between Tralee and Dingle. The Kerry Camino is made up of 3 sections. Section 1 is from Tralee to Camp, Section 2 covers Camp to Annascaul and Section 3 is from Annascaul to Dingle.
On the Kerry Camino, a walker uses a Passport and stamping stations on the route to mark their progress. Passports are available for free from local tourist offices. Certificates are issued by Tralee and Dingle Tourist offices on the production of a completed passport.
Carrauntoohil, MacGillycuddy Reeks
Killarney
Carrauntoohil is Ireland’s tallest and most challenging peak, posing the perfect challenge for experienced hikers. There are several ways to approach the mountain but the ominously named Devil’s Ladder is probably the most popular route.
The difficult, challenging, but unforgettable 12km hike is preceded by Hag’s Glen, a vast valley surrounded by beautiful lakes. Once you begin your hike along the Devil’s Ladder, the trek becomes quite challenging, a challenge that will be embraced by avid hikers.
The view from the top of Carrauntoohil is one you will never forget and for those who have conquered the peak will reap the reward of lakeside, seaside and mountain edge views.
Tralee to Fenit Greenway
Tralee/Fenit
The Tralee Fenit Greenway runs for 14km from the heart of Tralee, the county capital of Kerry to the scenic coastal village and port of Fenit. The first section of the Greenway has recently opened and has already proven to be a huge hit for families with children who enjoy walking and cycling. A 3km section of the route within the Tralee urban area has recently been converted to a greenway and has proven to be an immediate success, the line is in the ownership of Kerry County Council as is the North Kerry railway.
Bromore Cliffs
Ballybunion
Bromore’s sheer 180 foot cliffs have been sculpted by nature for thousands of years. Winter storms and the Wild Atlantic have formed headlands and bays and carved deep caves at sea level some of which later progressed to become arches and sea stacks.
Minerals seeping through the layers of flagstone that form Bromore Cliffs give them their ever changing colours.
The walk along the cliff top is safe, easy, well fenced and suitable for all ages (of course children must be supervised). The pathways are fenced for the safety of the visitors and for the protection of the environment and its unique flora and fauna.
Bromore Cliffs is on a family farm and is owned and managed by Mike and Eilish Flahive. The viewing areas were carefully selected in consultation with The National Parks and Wildlife, The National Monuments and the local authority Kerry County Council. They were positioned to minimise damage or disturbance to the Wildlife or the Prehistoric Forts.
Lickeen Woods Looped Walk
Glencar
Lickeen is situated on the Iveragh Peninsula in the very picturesque Glencar Valley. Blackstones Bridge, a local landmark, is just a short stroll up the road. The area falls within the SAC or Special Area of Conservation of the Caragh River Catchment. Caragh Lake is in the vicinity as are the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, of which there are many opportunities to get great views from the picnic area.
There are three looped waymarked trails to help you explore the wood. Castle Rock Loop (2.0km, 1 hour, strenuous, green) will guide you through the forest, climbing to about 90m before you descend into an atmospheric ravine before continuing back on forest roads to the trailhead. Lickeen Loop (2.2km 1 hour, moderate, blue) takes in the landmark of Blackstones Bridge before leading you along a trail adjacent to the Caragh River before looping back via the Wood. The Kerry LIFE Loop (3.1km, 1½ hours, strenuous, purple) is the wider loop that incorporates the best bits of the above. The iconic Kerry Way (214km, 9 days, strenuous, yellow) also passes through Lickeen.
Glanteenasig Woods
Dingle Peninsula
Glanteenassig is an outdoor enthusiasts’ dreamland with over 450 hectares of woodland, mountain, lake and peatland to explore. Nestled in a sheltered valley among the Slieve Mish mountains, the landscape is imposing and awesome . To reach it the visitor must step off the beaten track, travel up the valley and feel the remoteness of the mountains. Behind the trees the area abounds with streams, lakes, waterfalls and dramatic cliffs which characterise this untamed landscape. At certain points, views of Brandon & Tralee Bay and the Maharees can be enjoyed. There are a selection of walks and picnic areas dotted around the site to be enjoyed.
Kerry Cliff Walk
Portmagee
The cliffs stand over one thousand feet above the Atlantic and were formed over 400 million years ago. From the cliffs you have an incredible view of the Skellig Islands which are listed as a UNESCO world heritage site.
Kerry Cliffs Walk is a 2.1km trail located near Portmagee, that features beautiful wild flowers and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, and nature trips and takes approximately one hour to complete.