The Complete Kerry Way in 11 days
From
The Complete Kerry Way in 11 days
Personalised Quotation
Luggage Transfers
24/7 Travel Assistance
Selected Accommodations
Immerse yourself in a varied and spectacular tour of The Ring of Kerry, Ireland's longest national trail.Discover historical sites, archaeological treasures, coastal villages and let yourself be enchanted by its culture and particular traditions.
- Walk along the small trails known to the Irish as 'boreens'.
- Delight in beautiful coastal and mountainous landscapes.
- Observe the vastness of the Atlantic Ocean as you walk the rocky shores.
- Tour a stretch of the famous The Ring of Kerry.
- Enjoy the great views of the Dingle Peninsula and the towering mountains in County Kerry.
Gallery
Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrival in Killarney
This charming walking route starts at Killarney, Ireland's second most visited city, located on the shores of Lough Leane. It was formerly the capital of the medieval kingdom of Desmond, and now continues to enjoy a great cultural and historical richness.
Overnight in Killarney
Abbey Lodge
This cosy bed and breakfast is located just minutes from Killarney town centre.
The comfortable rooms which are nicely decorated with antiques and artwork offer a quiet and cosy atmosphere.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
The comfortable rooms which are nicely decorated with antiques and artwork offer a quiet and cosy atmosphere.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 2 - Killarney to Glencar 18 miles | 29,5 km
Start the day with a transfer from Killarney to Galway's Bridge.
Then, heading into the Black Valley, you'll encounter the beautiful scenery of MacGillycuddy's Reeks mountain range and Purple Mountain, a range that has three main peaks: Purple, Shehy and Tomies.
You will also pass through Killarney National Park, an ideal place for nature lovers, as it enchants you with its mountains, waterfalls and lakes.
On the last stretch, on the way to Glencar, you will be impressed by the incredible views of the imposing Carrantuohill, Ireland's highest mountain and the fascinating Dingle Peninsula, an area rich in flora and fauna.
Ascent: 717m (2,352ft) / Descent: 730m (2,395ft)
Then, heading into the Black Valley, you'll encounter the beautiful scenery of MacGillycuddy's Reeks mountain range and Purple Mountain, a range that has three main peaks: Purple, Shehy and Tomies.
You will also pass through Killarney National Park, an ideal place for nature lovers, as it enchants you with its mountains, waterfalls and lakes.
On the last stretch, on the way to Glencar, you will be impressed by the incredible views of the imposing Carrantuohill, Ireland's highest mountain and the fascinating Dingle Peninsula, an area rich in flora and fauna.
Ascent: 717m (2,352ft) / Descent: 730m (2,395ft)
Overnight in Glencar
The Climbers Inn
This cosy inn is located in a picturesque setting in the heart of the Glencar Valley, close to breathtaking waterfalls and panoramic views.
The rooms are comfortable and spacious, and the place offers a warm and relaxing atmosphere.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 3 - Glencar to Glenbeigh 8 miles | 13 km
The first walk of the day will be to Lickeen Wood, a beautiful place in the middle of the Glencar Valley. At its highest point, you will have incredible views of the river and Lough Caragh.
Afterwards, you will continue on a leisurely route and have the chance to continue walking close to the River Caragh to Glenbeigh, a town on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean.
Ascent: 369m (1,211ft) / Descent: 425m (1,394ft)
Afterwards, you will continue on a leisurely route and have the chance to continue walking close to the River Caragh to Glenbeigh, a town on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean.
Ascent: 369m (1,211ft) / Descent: 425m (1,394ft)
Overnight in Glenbeigh
Kerry Ocean Lodge
This hotel offers wonderful views of the sea and countryside. The rooms are equipped with an en suite bathroom, hairdryer, TV and coffee maker. Free Wi-Fi access is available in public areas.
There is also a washing and drying area and a storage space for walking equipment.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 4 - Glenbeigh to Cahersiveen 18 miles | 29 km
Arriving at Rossbeigh Hill you can take a break to revel in the wonderful views of the Dingle Peninsula, the westernmost point of Ireland.
On the way to Foilmore, you will pass Drung Hill, a 640 metre-high hill, located in an area called Mountain Stage. That night you will stay in Cahersiveen, a nearby village.
Ascent: 578m (1,896ft) / Descent: 587m (1,926ft)
On the way to Foilmore, you will pass Drung Hill, a 640 metre-high hill, located in an area called Mountain Stage. That night you will stay in Cahersiveen, a nearby village.
Ascent: 578m (1,896ft) / Descent: 587m (1,926ft)
Overnight in Cahersiveen
San Antoine B&B
This small and cosy six-bedroom hotel with private bathroom and TV will offer you an excellent stay in Cahirciveen.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 5 - Cahersiveen to Waterville 14 miles | 22 km
Today you will be pleased to discover Irish landscapes at their finest.
Start with a transfer of approximately 20 minutes from Cahersiveen to Foilmore. You will then be treated to beautiful views as you reach Knockavahaun, the highest point on this coastal route.
Later on, you'll make your way to Waterville, a town in the middle of an isthmus that divides Lough Currane from Ballinskelligs Bay.
Ascent: 788m (2,585ft) / Descent: 809m (2,654ft)
Start with a transfer of approximately 20 minutes from Cahersiveen to Foilmore. You will then be treated to beautiful views as you reach Knockavahaun, the highest point on this coastal route.
Later on, you'll make your way to Waterville, a town in the middle of an isthmus that divides Lough Currane from Ballinskelligs Bay.
Ascent: 788m (2,585ft) / Descent: 809m (2,654ft)
Overnight in Waterville
Golf Links View B&B
Located near from the centre of Waterville, this beautiful and luxurious country house offers you a pleasant stay while gazing at the Atlantic Ocean and a spacious golf course.
The hotel has a drying area for wet clothing and footwear.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
The hotel has a drying area for wet clothing and footwear.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 6 - Waterville to Caherdaniel 8 miles | 13 km
Today you will walk along paths with a view over the sea to the Beara Hills. In addition, you will have the option to explore the magical gardens and wooded trails of Derrynane National Historic Park.
You will spend the night in Caherdaniel, a village on the Iveragh Peninsula in the Ring of Kerry.
Ascent: 318m (1,043ft) / Descent: 289m (948ft)
You will spend the night in Caherdaniel, a village on the Iveragh Peninsula in the Ring of Kerry.
Ascent: 318m (1,043ft) / Descent: 289m (948ft)
Overnight in Caherdaniel
The Olde Forge
This accommodation, located near Caherdaniel, offers pleasant views of Kenmare Bay.
The rooms come with WiFi and are well-equipped. Enjoy their incredible homemade breakfast with local products.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
The rooms come with WiFi and are well-equipped. Enjoy their incredible homemade breakfast with local products.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 7 - Caherdaniel to Sneem 11 miles | 18 km
You'll start the day by walking along a historic commercial route which transported butter to the city of Cork.
Later, you'll walk up Eagle Hill and visit Staigue Stone Fort, a large stone ring in ruins that was once a fortress.
Then you'll continue along rural and rocky trails, while enjoying the incredible scenery until you reach Sneem.
Ascent: 445m (1,459ft) / Descent: 468m (1,535ft)
Later, you'll walk up Eagle Hill and visit Staigue Stone Fort, a large stone ring in ruins that was once a fortress.
Then you'll continue along rural and rocky trails, while enjoying the incredible scenery until you reach Sneem.
Ascent: 445m (1,459ft) / Descent: 468m (1,535ft)
Overnight in Sneem
Coomassig View
This luxurious B&B is ideally located for walkers, just outside Sneem, very close to The Kerry Way.
The rooms are very comfortable and have a private bathroom and satellite TV.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
The rooms are very comfortable and have a private bathroom and satellite TV.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 8 - Blackwater Bridge to Sneem 8 miles | 13,5 km
You'll start the day with a transfer to Blackwater Bridge to begin your journey back to Sneem, where you'll spend another night.
You will walk along a stretch of The Ring of Kerry and have the privilege of contemplating the Beara Peninsula, located in the southwest of Ireland and bordering the River Kenmare.
Ascent: 235m (771ft) / Descent: 245m (804ft)
You will walk along a stretch of The Ring of Kerry and have the privilege of contemplating the Beara Peninsula, located in the southwest of Ireland and bordering the River Kenmare.
Ascent: 235m (771ft) / Descent: 245m (804ft)
Overnight in Sneem
Coomassig View
This luxurious B&B is ideally located for walkers, just outside Sneem, very close to The Kerry Way.
The rooms are very comfortable and have a private bathroom and satellite TV.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
The rooms are very comfortable and have a private bathroom and satellite TV.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 9 - Sneem to Kenmare 11 miles | 17,5 km
This day will start with a transfer to Blackwater Bridge. Once you get there you will start a route that will take you past two ancient castles, Dromore, located on the shore of Kenmare Bay and built in the 1830s, and Cappanacush, which was in the 17th century the place of residence of the O'Sullivan Mor family.
Later, after crossing the River Finnihy, you will visit Reenagoppul, an ancient stone circle, before heading on to Kenmare.
Ascent: 354m (1,161ft) / Descent: 373m (1,224ft)
Later, after crossing the River Finnihy, you will visit Reenagoppul, an ancient stone circle, before heading on to Kenmare.
Ascent: 354m (1,161ft) / Descent: 373m (1,224ft)
Overnight in Kenmare
Rockcrest House
This cosy hotel will provide you with all the comforts to spend the night in Kenmare. You can relax while gazing at the beautiful landscapes, listening to some live music or trying out exquisite gourmet dishes.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 10 - Kenmare to Killarney 16 miles | 26 km
On your journey along Old Kenmare Road, you will find the magnificent Peakeen and Knockanaguish mountains.
Afterwards, you will arrive at Killarney National Park, a charming place for lovers of flora and fauna.Delight in the beautiful views of the mountains, lakes and fascinating Torc Waterfall. You'll continue your way to Killarney later.
Ascent: 651m (2,136ft) / Descent: 631m (2,070ft)
Afterwards, you will arrive at Killarney National Park, a charming place for lovers of flora and fauna.Delight in the beautiful views of the mountains, lakes and fascinating Torc Waterfall. You'll continue your way to Killarney later.
Ascent: 651m (2,136ft) / Descent: 631m (2,070ft)
Overnight in Killarney
Abbey Lodge
This cosy B&B is located just minutes from Killarney town centre.
This cosy bed and breakfast is located just minutes from Killarney town centre.
The comfortable rooms which are nicely decorated with antiques and artwork offer a quiet and cosy atmosphere.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
This cosy bed and breakfast is located just minutes from Killarney town centre.
The comfortable rooms which are nicely decorated with antiques and artwork offer a quiet and cosy atmosphere.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 11 - Killarney
This will be the last day on The Kerry Way. After breakfast, you can say goodbye to these lovely lands and return to your place of origin.
End of our services.
End of our services.
Itinerary Map
Request a Quotation
Request a Quotation
Services
Included
- Accommodation in en suite rooms in charming hotels
- Daily Breakfasts
- Luggage transfers between accommodations
- Transfers as specified in the itinerary
- Information dossier with maps and routes
- 24-hour telephone support
- Sustainable travel, we compensate the CO2 emissions of your trip
- Taxes
Extras
- Travel insurance
- Cancellation insurance
- Additional nights
Accomodation
General information
The accommodations with which we collaborate have a private bathroom and all the necessary services to ensure the best comfort available.
Our team checks in situ the quality of all the accommodations offered, so that you have an unforgettable experience during your trip.
The accommodation that we will book for your trip will be selected taking into account our commitment to you: guaranteeing comfort, calm and enjoyment throughout your trip.
We work with quality hotels and country cottages with limited capacity, so we invite you to confirm your reservation as soon as possible.
The name of each accommodation will be provided to you a few weeks before your trip begins.
Room types
It is possible to book this journey in single, double or triple rooms.
All rooms have private bathrooms.
Travel & Transfers
To arrive at the start of your journey, the best option is to fly into Kerry Airport, as it is the closest airport to your first destination.
From the airport you can take bus 14, operated by “Expressway” , to Killarney in approximately 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a taxi (24 hours) from the airport itself, which would take only 15 minutes.
At the end of your journey in Killarney too, you can always return to the airport by “Expressway”.
From the airport you can take bus 14, operated by “Expressway” , to Killarney in approximately 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a taxi (24 hours) from the airport itself, which would take only 15 minutes.
At the end of your journey in Killarney too, you can always return to the airport by “Expressway”.
FAQs
Is luggage transfer included? What are the luggage requirements?
Absolutely! Each traveller has included 1 piece of luggage that we will transfer between your accommodations. It's important that this piece of luggage meets the following criterias:
- Maximum weight of 45 lbs (20 kg).
- Must be only 1 piece of luggage without any attachments or accessories.
- Should not contain valuables, fragile items, food or medications.
- Must be correctly identified (booking reference of your trip and the full name of the trip holder).
What is the best time of year to complete this trip?
We recommend you take this walking holiday between April and August.
What should my physical preparation be?
This route has a medium-high difficulty level, so it is ideal for people looking between 5 and 6 hours of walking a day. It is recommended that you are in a very good physical condition to make the most of this walking trail.
Most of the sections are by mountainous terrain, rural trails and only 35% of the roads are paved.
What should I know before doing this route?
Although this route is very well signposted, it is advisable to know how to use a compass and read a map. In addition, we will provide you with a complete route itinerary with a map.
What if I'm not able to finish one of the stages?
You can call us to arrange a private transfer for you.
If you prefer, you can also use public transport or local taxis to get to your next accommodation.
Do I need to take out travel insurance?
Yes, this is a requirement to book with us. It's important that this insurance covers your activities, emergency evacuation, and hospital care.
How far in advance should I book my trip?
We recommend that you book as soon as you are sure about your dates, as accommodation can fill up very quickly in this area.
What equipment do I need to bring?
Once you make your reservation we will send you all the detailed information about the specific equipment you need for this route, considering recommendations for shoes, boots, clothes and a day-to day backpack.