Hill Walking - The Kerry Way

The Kerry Way - Iveragh (Sli Ulbh Rathach) is Ireland's longest way marked trail. The first stage from Killarney National Park to Glenbeigh is inland through wild and spectacular countryside. The second stage aims to be a coastal circuit of the Iveragh Peninsula linking Cahirciveen, Waterville, Caherdaniel, Sneem and Kenmare, returning to Killarney. The circuit is about 215 km (135 miles).

Wherever possible the Way follows paths and 'green roads' (unsurfaced) with a few linking stretches along surfaced roads. In using old droving paths, 'butter roads' and routes between early Christian settlements, a walk along the Kerry Way is in effect a journey back in time through the ancient baronies of Magunihy, Dunkerron North and South, and Iveragh. As the Way is mostly at a higher level than present day roads, it improves on what is already renowned viewing. Route marking is intentionally discreet. Wherever the Way leaves a public road, the walking man symbol is used, elsewhere yellow arrows on a marker posts or rocks are used.

The Way is mostly below the 300m (1000ft) contour, but rises above this where it crosses passes ( the highest point is 385m at Windy gap between Glenmore and Caherdaniel). In general the Way , while rough underfoot, should be suitable for family groups, particularly in summer. Care must be taken at other times. Some streams can become dangerous after heavy rain and unless you are quite confident of map-reading and navigation, it might be best to avoid the higher sections when there is fog or low cloud.

The Kerry way has been set up by agreement with local farmers and landowners. Users must help preserve goodwill, and remember that all land is owned by someone. The fields are the farmers workshops, so care must be taken not to damage fences, crops, stock, or property.

Here are some other walking links: 

Walking in Valentia

The Kerry Way Walking Trail

For Booking Information or a Custom Walking Package

Brian Morgan
Atlantic Villa, Valentia Island, Co Kerry