With just over 1000 meters, the Carrauntoohil, Ireland’s highest mountain, isn’t exactly a highlight. But what Ireland lacks in height, it more than makes up for in rough natural beauty. One of the best ways to experience this is by walking the Kerry Way, a circular walking route of approximately 214 kilometers across the Iveragh Peninsula. This route starts and ends in Killarney. This is the walking alternative to the famous Ring of Kerry driving route, and passes through some of Ireland’s most spectacular scenery. Crossing mountains and valleys, passing lakes, old forests and wild bogs, the route comes with a lot of variety. From the cliffs and sandy beaches you can enjoy beautiful views over the many rocky islands. You pass numerous archaeological remains, giving the route a strong historical character.
The Kerry Way is 214 kilometers long, which is equal to 133 miles. The route is divided into 9 stages, and starts and ends in Killarney. Whether you are an experienced hiker or just starting out, the Kerry Way is for everyone.
A long, hard mountain crossing leaves the Black Valley and heads for Glencar, full of wild valley floors, high passes, lonely lakes and proper Kerry drama. The climbing comes in two big waves, first through Bridia Valley and later over Beann Dhearg Pass, with the Reeks standing around like they own the place. Which, frankly, they do.
From Shamrock Farmhouse, the route follows the Black Valley past abandoned stone cottages and Cummeenduff Lough, then pushes west into Bridia Valley between Brassel Mountain and Broaghnabinnia (745 m). After gentler valley ground, the trail climbs towards Beann Dhearg Pass, rising to around 350 metres, with views back towards MacGillycuddy’s Reeks and the rough heart of the mountains.
Beyond the pass, the route drops towards Lough Acoose, then loops through quieter lanes, lakeside views and the Enchanted Mossy Forest before easing into Glencar. The Climber’s Inn is a perfect mountain finish: warm, simple, welcoming, and exactly the sort of place where tired legs and big stories suddenly become best friends.
A varied and tougher walk leaves Caherdaniel and heads east towards Sneem, with Kenmare Bay glittering to the south and the hills steadily taking over. The route mixes quiet lanes, old tracks, stream crossings and rolling upland ground. It is a hard one, not because of one monster climb, but because the day keeps serving up short, punchy rises. Classic Kerry, always another little sting.
From The Olde Forge, the route climbs out of Caherdaniel with views over Kenmare Bay, then passes Coomnahorna Old Burial Ground and a scenic stream-side trail. The path rises and dips through open hillside towards Staigue Wishing Seat and Staigue Fort, with a notable climb to around 180 metres before rolling onward through the hollow way.
After the high middle section, the route gradually loses height through quieter countryside, with long views towards the Sneem area and the islands of Kenmare Bay. The final kilometres ease into Sneem, where Coomassig View gives a peaceful finish just beyond the village buzz. Hills done, bay still sparkling, fine work all round.
