length
7 Days
difficulty
Moderate - Challenging
trip cost
from $4590 pp
Nature Immersion
Cultural Interest
Overview
Mountains of Kerry Hiking
Explore the captivating beauty of Kerry, hailed as one of Ireland’s most revered regions, where picturesque landscapes, majestic mountains, and charming villages create an ideal backdrop for this Kerry hiking tour in the southwest. During this adventure, we will explore magnificent peninsulas of Ireland’s southwest, stroll along Kerry’s pristine white sand beaches, follow ancient pilgrimage routes, and revel in breathtaking views of the wild Atlantic Ocean.
During the day, immerse yourself in the wonders of the Ring of Kerry, trekking through diverse terrains such as Killarney National Park, the untamed stretches of the Kerry Way, the rugged Dingle Peninsula, and the enchanting Gap of Dunloe. Guided by an expert, gain valuable insights into the region’s rich cultural and geological history, spot diverse wildlife like kestrels, hawks, foxes, and red deer, and meet colourful local characters, making this hiking holiday in Ireland an unforgettable experience.
Highlights
Get Ready For
- Explore magical Country Kerry on foot
- Hike the magnificent Dingle Peninsula and Slea Head
- Walk the captivating Kerry Way and venture into the peaceful Killarney National Park
- Climb the majestic Conor Pass, Ireland’s highest mountain pass
- Follow the pilgrimage route of Mount Brandon’s ridge
Expert Guides
Elevate your experience
While every aspect of your walking holiday is important, it is our local expert guides who will really elevate your trip to Ireland. Our guides are enthusiastic, passionate and experienced hikers and climbers who are committed to providing you with the best possible experience of Ireland and a trip to remember. They lead trips in Ireland for an average of 100 days each year so their skills, knowledge and experience is vast. And they all genuinely love to share their local knowledge about Ireland’s west Coast and islands.
On the Trail
What's it like underfoot?
This trip is for keen hikers who will relish walking in the rugged mountain landscapes of Kerry. There are a few days that involve climbing up mountains and passes and the tracks will be fairly narrow and rocky underfoot. Whilst the heights are not very high, the paths can be boggy and steep in places. You should enjoy walking in mountain landscapes and have a matching level of fitness to get the most from this trip.
Itinerary
DAILY DETAILS
Gathering in the lively town of Killarney, we’ll venture into the lush green fields, glistening lakes, and peaceful woods of Killarney National Park. Following a trail along the Kerry Way, you’ll explore the remote landscapes that used to be part of the Muckross Estate, surrounded by the majestic MacGillycuddy’s Reeks mountains. Along the way, you’ll encounter a picturesque waterfall before heading back to our accommodation, just in time for a satisfying dinner.
Meals: L, D
Mangerton Mountain stands as a vast expanse of remote wilderness in the southwest of Ireland, offering an ideal preview of the upcoming terrain. The vistas from its ridge, overlooking the majestic MacGillycuddy’s Reeks and the towering peaks beyond, are truly mesmerising. Notably, there’s the intriguingly named Devil’s Punchbowl, a lake formed by glaciers where local legend tells of a saint banishing a monster to its depths.
Meals: B, L
Our day commences with a peaceful boat ride on the tranquil lakes of Killarney, framed by the dramatic outlines of Killarney’s mountains. Disembarking at a picturesque spot along the shoreline, we embark on a journey through one of the most picturesque sections of the Kerry Way. The Kerry Way is Ireland’s longest and most captivating long-distance walking trail, winding through breathtaking landscapes, picturesque villages, and historical sites. We will cover our favourite section of it today. The path winds along serene roads and mountain tracks, leading us through the scenic Black Valley, a name derived from the area’s late connection to the electric grid, which occurred in the 1970s.
Meals: B, L
Embark on an exhilarating day hike through the majestic Conor Pass, immersing yourself in the rugged beauty of Ireland’s highest mountain pass. Traverse winding trails and through open heather, surrounded by lush greenery and wildflowers as you ascend to higher above the valley. Marvel at the panoramic views of steep cliffs, open ocean, and emerald lakes below. This evening we head into lively Dingle town, a bastion of the traditional Irish music scene where we will find ourselves in a quintessential Irish pub to finish the day.
Meals: B, L
The Dingle Peninsula boasts a wealth of European archaeological wonders, including ancient standing stones, prehistoric monuments, and ancient clocháns or beehive huts that date back millennia. Trekking along segments of the Dingle Way and an elevated trail over Mount Eagle, you’ll be treated to breathtaking coastal vistas on remarkable paths. Delight in leisurely beach strolls starting from Ventry Beach and conclude your hike at Slea Head, the westernmost point of Ireland. Here, gaze upon the hauntingly beautiful Blasket Islands, once inhabited by a thriving community that was ultimately deserted in the 1950s due to challenging living conditions.
Meals: B, L
Today we venture through the most untamed region of Dingle following a rugged path along Mount Brandon’s ridge, a trail frequented by pilgrims ascending the sacred mountain. Legend has it that St Brendan, while atop the summit, had a vision of a “promised land”. This vision led him to embark on an extraordinary journey, purportedly reaching American shores in 535AD, a staggering 900 years before Columbus. Along the way, we’ll encounter ancient Ogham stones and enjoy sweeping views of the ocean before descending into Brandon Bay and the charming, pint-sized village of Brandon.
Meals: B, L
Indulge in a relaxed breakfast as you bid farewell to the untamed beauty of the Dingle Peninsula. We will head north to Galway where the trip ends in time for connections back to Dublin (and elsewhere) on public transport or further exploration on Ireland’s west coast.
Meals: B
Map
Explore
Your trip starts in Killarney, a charming town located in County Kerry . It is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, with a landscape that includes lush greenery, sparkling lakes, rugged mountains, and dense forests. Killarney National Park is one of the most famous national parks in Ireland and covers an area of approximately 26,000 acres. The park is home to diverse flora and fauna and offers numerous walking and hiking trails. It is also known for its three stunning lakes: Lough Leane, Muckross Lake, and Upper Lake.
The summit of Mangerton Mountain stands at an elevation of 839 meters (2,753 feet) above sea level, making it one of the taller peaks in Ireland outside of the Macgillycuddy’s Reeks mountain range.
The Kerry Way is one of Ireland’s most famous long-distance hiking trails, known for its stunning scenery, rugged landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. It is a circular walking route that takes you through the County Kerry and is approximately 214 kilometers (133 miles) long, forming a loop around the Iveragh Peninsula in County Kerry. The trail starts and ends in the town of Killarney.
The Conor Pass is renowned for its stunning and dramatic scenery. As you drive or hike along the pass, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the Dingle Peninsula, the Atlantic Ocean, and the surrounding mountains. On a clear day, you can even see as far as the Blasket Islands. The pass is one of the highest mountain passes in Ireland, reaching an elevation of approximately 456 meters (1,496 feet) above sea level. As you ascend the pass, you’ll experience a significant change in elevation and temperature.
The Dingle Peninsula is a promontory jutting out into the Atlantic Ocean and is surrounded by water on three sides. It is part of the Wild Atlantic Way, a scenic coastal route that stretches along the western coast of Ireland. The Dingle Peninsula is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, including rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, rolling hills, and soaring mountains. The Slea Head Drive, a scenic route around the Peninsula, offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic coastline and the Blasket Islands.
Mount Brandon, known in Irish as “Cnoc Bréanainn” or “Barr an Ghéaráin,” is one of the most prominent and iconic mountains in Ireland. It is the highest peak on the Dingle Peninsula and the second-highest mountain in Ireland, with an elevation of 952 meters (3,123 feet) above sea level.Mount Brandon has long held spiritual significance in Irish culture. It is named after Saint Brendan the Navigator (Naomh Bréanainn), an early Irish saint who is said to have sailed to North America in the 6th century. The mountain is an important pilgrimage site, and the annual “Garland Sunday” pilgrimage takes place on the last Sunday in July, attracting pilgrims from near and far.
Galway is a lively and culturally rich city located on the west coast of Ireland. It is the capital of County Galway and is known for its vibrant arts scene, historic architecture, bustling streets, and strong sense of Irish identity. It is often referred to as the “City of the Tribes” due to its historical association with 14 prominent merchant families, or “tribes,” that played a significant role in the city’s development.
Inclusions
What's Included?
- 6 nights accommodation on twin share basis
- Group transfers each day in a guide-driven mini-van
- Experienced Mountain Leader (at 1:8 guide-to-client ratio)
- Daily breakfasts
- Daily lunches (except last day)
- Dinner on first night
- Hikes and experiences mentioned in the itinerary
- All boat / ferries as required
- Snacks on transfer and hikes
- Gratuities for meals, accommodations and third-party services
- Travel to start and end points
- Single supplement $1350
- Travel insurance
- Pre and post-trip accommodation
- Dinner most evenings
- Drinks with dinner
- Gratuity for main guide(s)
Ireland
Ireland’s West Coast Islands
- Enjoy an island-hopping adventure on the west coast of Ireland
- Discover Inishboffin, the Aran Islands and Clare
- Experience easy hiking and indulge in tasty local produce
- Climb Croagh Patrick, the cliffs of Moher and the Burren
$4,790.00
Scotland
West Highland Way – Scotland
- Hike Scotland’s classic long-distance route
- Experience the ‘bonnie banks’ of Loch Lomond, the brooding majesty of Rannoch Moor and the staggering beauty of Glencoe
- Enjoy drams of whisky or a local ale in cosy inns
- Climb Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in Scotland
$5,990.00
Scotland
Arran Coastal Way – Scotland
- Explore ‘Scotland in miniature’ – highlands and lowlands
- Discover ancient stone circles and standing stones
- Look for seals, deer, eagles and native wildlife
- Visit local whisky distilleries
$2,390.00
Cornwall
A Cornish Camino – Cornwall
- Travel the path of Saints and pilgrims along the Cornish coastline
- Wander along cobbled streets past pretty whitewashed cottages
- Follow the path through tranquil woods and country lanes
- Walk the ancient cobbled causeway to St Michael’s Mount
$3,250.00
Coast to Coast
The Part-Guided Walk – Coast to Coast
- Part-guided and fully pack-free with our qualified mountain guide
- Ramble through Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty
- Be charmed by quintessential English villages and pubs
- Rolling hills, pastures and the world’s most charming sheep
$5,450.00
Cotswold Way
The Self-Guided Walk – Cotswold Way
- Marvel at the fine Georgian architecture in World Heritage Bath
- Wander among age-old beech trees along quiet woodland trails
- Explore some of the worlds best-preserved ancient Roman baths
- Delight at the chocolate-box villages and picture-perfect countryside
$2,890.00
Cornwall
South West Coast Path: St Ives to Penzance – Cornwall
- Walk the ancient narrow causeway to mystical St Michael’s Mount
- Experience the dramatic and isolated Cornish coastline
- Savour craggy landscapes, hidden coves and stunning views
- Explore ‘Poldark’ country and the heart of Cornish tin mining
$2,190.00
TRIP date selection
when would you like to travel?
Please select your preferred dates for on-demand trips or select a scheduled date for group departures. If you have booked a self-guided trip please understand that because your trip date is on demand and we must check availability of all properties on your chosen dates before it can be fully confirmed