Superb coastal and interior walking following old tracks and green roads.
Long sandy beaches on the north side give way to rocky inlets and coves.
The Kerry Way is Ireland’s oldest long distance walk and provides 215km (135mi) of remote valleys, expansive coastline and historic villages. This path traverses the Iveragh Peninsula and is home to the “Ring of Kerry,” one of Ireland’s most popular scenic drives. The Kerry Way goes across the peninsula as well as around it, and only occasionally will you meet large tour groups on this stunning signposted walking trail.
Starting and finishing in historic Killarney, The Kerry Way is one of Ireland’s best Waymarked Ways. Part of this route runs through Killarney National Park, which is a treat all to itself. Make sure to have your camera ready for the incredible variety of landscapes and experiences that the Kerry Way has to offer!
The stunning Atlantic coast of Ireland has been shaped and carved by water and wind to create a dramatically beautiful landscape. The north side of the Kerry Peninsula mirrors the old red sandstone of the Dingle Peninsula, gradually changing as you venture south to the limestone crags of the Beara Peninsula. Long sandy beaches on the north side give way to rocky inlets and coves. The climate is warm and temperate, allowing sub-tropical plants like palm trees to flourish.
The gorgeous glaciated lakes at the centre of the famous Killarney National Park draw visitors from across the globe. Home to native oak woods, birch, beech and one of the last remaining herds of red deer, Killarney National Park will steal a place in your heart forever. Keep an eye out for breeding pairs of white-tailed eagles as you walk along well-formed trails, footbridges, and graded paths around the lakes.
The Macgillicuddy Reeks is the main mountain group on the peninsula and contains the two highest mountains in Ireland. Carrauntoohil is the tallest at 1038m, and Caher is almost as tall at 1001m. These looming giants form a glorious backdrop to your Kerry Way walking trail and can be seen from many points along your journey. Outside of the Killarney National Park, trails become sheep paths, old droving and butter roads and formed forest tracks. Modern recycled plastic Way markers and stiles are interspersed with wooden signs, which date to the original marking of the route. There are no great ascents, as you mostly walk around the mountains rather than up them, but there are some long and challenging days. This is not a route for the faint hearted, or the first time hiker!
Choose the Walking & Hiking Itinerary that suits you best. Click See More Details to download and share important details about this route, including transportation, packing list, helpful links and more.
The full Kerry Way is rated MODERATE. Navigating is easy with excellent waymarking and our detailed Route Notes and maps. Our Kerry tours are appropriate for walkers with good fitness, comfortable walking 12-25km (8-15mi) per day with ascents up to 700m (2,297ft). Our tours include optional routes, so please look at daily itineraries for details regarding daily distance and ascents.
Don’t see an option that fits your needs? Let us design an itinerary that works for you!