Ireland

Walking the Kerry Way and Killarney N.P.

Trip code: W07KE 4.8 (4 reviews)

Self-guided walking

7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 2
Moderate

10.0Kg CO2e

Navigation App

SUMMARY

  • Peaceful, beautiful walks in the south-west corner of Ireland
  • Killarney National Park: Ireland's oldest protected wilderness with Ireland's only herd of wild red deer
  • Panoramic views of glistening glacial lakes and rugged mountains
  • A million shades of green as the road follows the contours of the land
  • 10,000 years of dramatic Celtic history

WHAT'S INCLUDED?

  • 7 nights accommodation
  • All breakfasts
  • Navigation app
  • Luggage transfers between hotels
  • Walking transfers to the start of the walks on days 2/3/6 to ensure you see the best of the area

TRIP DESCRIPTION

The Kerry Way is the Emerald Isle's longest trail - at 210km, it offers fantastic views of the unspoilt landscapes - a walk here will swathe you in 10,000 years of dramatic Celtic history.

Nestled in the south-west corner of Ireland, you'll spot contrastingly beautiful landscapes at every turn. From rugged cliffs to some of Europe's finest golden beaches, small friendly villages and velvety green fields to picturesque mountain ranges.

Starting in the famous town of Killarney, boasting the magnificent 'Three Lakes of Killarney'. This circular coastal route follows the spectacular Wild Atlantic Way, you'll pass lovely towns and villages - Waterville, a favoured fishing location for Charlie Chaplin, Sneem famous for its little bridge and Kenmare with its historic textile industry.

Meandering the landscape, which was carved out of rock by the last Ice Age 10,000 years ago, marvel at Iron Age forts and ruined abbeys amongst the many sheep that dot the fields, crisp blue loughs and pretty waterfalls. As you head southwards, the coastal views get better and better.

You'll stay in a mix of friendly bed and breakfasts. You will be sure of a warm Irish welcome everywhere. Many towns offer pubs, bistros and restaurants serving tasty local food - the seafood is especially good!

*This holiday is also available as a 4-night Short Break*

Terrain

The walking is on well marked trails, the terrain at times can be a little muddy underfoot and some rocky sections. There are some coastal paths which are wide but do have drops. Walking boots are essential and poles are highly reccommended.

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DAY-BY-DAY ITINERARY

 

Day 1: Arrive in Killarney

This popular town is renowned for its three magnificent lakes in the heart of Kerry. Check into your B&B and then explore the town, choosing from one of its many restaurants for dinner and perhaps enjoying some live music.

You stay at Abbey Lodge.

hotel details

 equivalent

Abbey Lodge, Killarney

Mastercard
Visa
WiFi
TV
Safe


Abbey Lodge, a charming family-run guesthouse on Muckross Road (N71), is just a 3-minute walk from Killarney town centre's shops, restaurants, bars, and transport links.

Guests enjoy free WiFi, onsite parking, and spacious en-suite rooms equipped with power showers, TVs, safes, work desks, and ironing facilities.

Ideally located for exploring Killarney and County Kerry, Abbey Lodge is near Killarney National Park's attractions, including Muckross House, Ross Castle, Muckross Abbey, and Torc Waterfall. The INEC and Killarney Racecourse are within a 10-minute stroll.

Day 2: Glenbeigh to Cahersiveen (24km/14.9mi)

After a transfer to just outside Glenbeigh, today's walk takes you along the northern shores of the peninsula, to the town of Cahersiveen. Following an old 17th century 'stage coach' route, passing through deserted villages, once busy centres of activity, trading with passengers on the old stage coaches. You'll be met by spectacular views across to the Dingle Peninsula, with Rossbeigh Strand and Inch Beach, famous for the film, Ryan's Daughter.

elevation

You stay at San Antoine B&B.

hotel details

 equivalent

San Antoine B&B, Cahersiveen

HOTEL WEBSITE      TRIP ADVISOR

Pool
Hairdryer
TV
Tea/coffee


The family run San Antoine B&B has been run by the same family for the last 2 generations and offers 6 cosy rooms.just a short walk from the main town centre.

Day 3: Cahersiveen to Waterville (18km/11.2mi)

From Cahersiveen, you will once again be driven a short distance to the starting point of today's walk at Coars Cross. From here you will be walking to the town of Waterville. This walk takes you across the tip of the peninsula with views north over the Dingle Peninsula and south to Kenmare Bay.

elevation

You stay at Seaclusion B&B.

hotel details

 equivalent

Seaclusion B&B, Waterville

HOTEL WEBSITE      TRIP ADVISOR

Hairdryer
WiFi
TV
Tea/coffee


Situated on the waterfront in Waterville a warm Irish welcome awaits you from your hosts the O’Sullivan family where you can relax and enjoy the spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean. Just a short stroll from the main centre there are plenty of bars and restaurants nearby where you can enjoy a nice evening meal.

Day 4: Waterville to Caherdaniel (15km/9.3mi)

Continuing from the town of Waterville, you walk around and above the coast to reach the village of Caherdaniel. Glorious coastal views out towards the Skellig Islands and Ballinskelligs Bay await along the route.

elevation

You stay at Derrymane Bay House.

hotel details

 equivalent

Derrymane Bay House, Caherdaniel

HOTEL WEBSITE      TRIP ADVISOR

Mastercard
Visa
Hairdryer
WiFi
TV
Tea/coffee


This small family run B&B overlooks Derrynane Beach offering stunning views of countryside, mountains, sea and beautiful Islands. Rooms are cosy and spacious and feature tea/coffee facilities, Wi-Fi, TV and private bathroom with hairdryer. A range of double, twin, triple and family rooms are available. Start your day in the dining room and enjoy the stunning views over a hearty breakfast.

Day 5: Caherdaniel to Sneem (12km/7.5mi)

Continue walking from the village of Caherdaniel, following an old 'butter road' to the village of Sneem. The views across the Beara Peninsula and out to the Atlantic Ocean are fantastic.

elevation

You stay at Coomassig View B&B.

hotel details

 equivalent

Coomassig View B&B, Sneem

HOTEL WEBSITE      TRIP ADVISOR

Hairdryer
WiFi
TV
Tea/coffee


The Coomassig View B&B is lovely and welcoming, and just a five-minute walk out of pretty Sneem. You will be given a warm welcome by Maureen and her family. On arrival tea and coffee is served. The rooms are large and have all the amenities you require. There is small sitting room and WiFi is free throughout the B&B. Breakfast is a full Irish breakfast and your host can provide a packed lunch for your next walks. Sneem has a good choice of pubs and restaurants where you can eat. If you are spending extra time here you, there are circular walks and a riverside walk where you can find one of Ireland's two coral beaches. Coomassig View is officially classed as a 4 star Bed and Breakfast.

Day 6: Sneem to Kenmare (27km/16.8mi)

This morning you will be transferred to Tahilla Church, just outside the town of Sneem to walk to the renowned town of Kenmare. This walk takes you along the shores of Kenmare Bay, with views across to the Beara Peninsula and the Caha Mountains.

elevation

You stay at Rockcrest House.

hotel details



Rockcrest House, Kenmare

HOTEL WEBSITE      TRIP ADVISOR

Shops
Hairdryer
WiFi
TV
Tea/coffee


Set in beautifully landscaped gardens, the Rockcrest Bed & Breakfast offers clean, modern, spacious rooms and a very warm welcome from hosts Marian and David O'Dwyer. Excellent full Irish breakfasts are cooked to order using local produce. Situated within a 5 minute walk to Kenmare and a choice of pubs and restaurants for evening meals.

Day 7: Kenmare to Killarney (25km/15.5mi)

You will start your walk from your accommodation, through Esknamucky Glen and Killarney National Park to arrive at the magnificent Muckross House & Gardens - about 5kms outside Killarney. After spending some time exploring the House and Gardens at Muckross you will make your way to Killarney for your overnight This is a glorious walk, giving you an opportunity to see or hear some of Ireland's native red deer as you walk through the National Park.

elevation

You stay at Abbey Lodge.

hotel details

 equivalent

Abbey Lodge, Killarney

Mastercard
Visa
WiFi
TV
Safe


Abbey Lodge, a charming family-run guesthouse on Muckross Road (N71), is just a 3-minute walk from Killarney town centre's shops, restaurants, bars, and transport links.

Guests enjoy free WiFi, onsite parking, and spacious en-suite rooms equipped with power showers, TVs, safes, work desks, and ironing facilities.

Ideally located for exploring Killarney and County Kerry, Abbey Lodge is near Killarney National Park's attractions, including Muckross House, Ross Castle, Muckross Abbey, and Torc Waterfall. The INEC and Killarney Racecourse are within a 10-minute stroll.

Day 8: Leave Killarney

Departure after breakfast. Transfers can be arranged at a supplement, perhaps enjoy extra nights in Killarney to finish your trip.

(*It is easy to add extra nights in all of the towns - perhaps you'd like to visit Valencia Island or take a boat trip to the Skellig Islands. Just ask your sales adviser to arrange.)

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These tour only prices are based on two people sharing. Single supplement from £314.

TRAVEL DETAILS

This holiday does not include any flights or rail.

REVIEWS

Good support well organised friendly staff

Mr Reynolds, 11 Sep 2024

 

Quite long days of walking but the landscape and scenery was absolutely stunning. Keep your eyes peeled for the wildlife such as deer, hares and we were also lucky to spot some wild mink. Would perhaps add some extra days in around Killarney and Kenmore to explore the areas - just not enough time. Would recommend pre booking restaurants although there are plenty of choices in most places they were also quite busy. Definitely book in Cahersiveen as only two main restaurants and they are very popular. Would definitely recommend this holiday but walkers need to be prepared for the long but great walking days but with a challenging walk between Waterville to Cahersiveen.

Mr Kelly, 6 Jul 2022

 

The Route management was fabulous.

Mrs Morris, 14 Aug 2019

 

This was our eighth hike or bike with Headwater. We have enjoyed them all, but it was my first time to Ireland and I am absolutely in love! The hikes were incredible with outrageously beautiful views. The walks aren't particularly hard, but they are long and without stayput days to rest, it is tiring. If I were to do it again, I would opt for in a few extra stayput days here and there just so I could sleep in and spend more time exploring the villages. The local people were friendly and helpful - go sit at the bar in any pub and you will make instant friends. The little villages were fun to explore. The food was great and I really did not expect that! One thing to note... make sure your rain gear is working - get in the shower with it before you pack and make sure it is still waterproof! It rains a lot in Ireland and you are bound to get a shower now and then - even a cloud burst that lasts just a few minutes. We had two and they were actually a lot of fun! But the weather is wonderfully cool even when sunny and even the rain is just part of the experience. I would go again today if work didn't get in the way! It was wonderful. I think it is my favorite trip so far!

Mrs Love-Fordham, 27 Jul 2018

 


Self-guided walking

7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 2
Moderate

10.0Kg CO2e

Navigation App

7 nights from £1039

CHOOSE A DEPARTURE

Call: 01606 720199

 

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