Kerry Way

Described as a walkers' Ring of Kerry, the Kerry Way is a low-level circuit of the spectacular Iveragh Peninsula, a region of wild, natural beauty steeped in history and legend. The glorious scenery of lakes, mountains and glens, ancient oak woodlands and a rugged coastline of wave-battered cliffs, coves and islands combine with the unhurried pace of life and wonderful hospitality to provide a truly memorable experience.

Starting from the lively town of Killarney, the Kerry Way enters the Killarney National Park and threads through the Muckross Estate, with its historic house, beautiful gardens romantic abbey ruins and pretty waterfall, with glorious views of the celebrated Lakes. Then it heads into the hills to the bleak and forbidding Black Valley beneath MacGillycuddy's Reeks, Ireland's highest mountains. From Black Valley, so-called after the entire population perished in the Great Famine, the route continues through the mountains to the friendly seaside village of Glenbeigh, along remote, rugged valleys linked by passes that provide spectacular mountain views. Next, the trail runs around the coast to the picturesque town of Kenmare, along old drovers' tracks, turf ‘roads', butter ‘roads' and mass paths that once linked ancient Christian communities. Along the way it passes ancient churches, standing stones, Holy wells, ring forts, castles, famine villages, the house and gardens of Daniel O'Connel, the Great Liberator; and several attractive towns and villages including Waterville, Caherdaniel and Sneem. On reaching the colourful town of Kenmare, the trail leaves the sea and heads through the hills and the National Park back to Killarney.