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Home Blog Hiking on the Kerry Way, Ireland

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Hiking on the Kerry Way, Ireland

The Kerry Way circles the Iveragh Peninsula in County Kerry with mountain passes, lakeside valleys and Atlantic inlets. Hiking the Kerry Way means quieter trails than the road-circled Ring of Kerry, big views in Killarney National Park and characterful villages from Glenbeigh to Sneem.

Why choose the Kerry Way

  • Varied landscapes from oak woods and lakes to high passes and ocean bays

  • Quiet paths that dodge the busier Ring of Kerry road

  • Flexible stages that suit Comfortable, Moderate or Energetic hikers

  • Great bases at Killarney, Glenbeigh, Waterville, Caherdaniel and Kenmare

  • Simple logistics with good public transport and welcoming accommodation

Want it planned for you? See our Self-Guided Kerry Way Hike or Design a custom Kerry itinerary.

Kerry Way v Dingle Way - Kerry Famous Sites - Ireland Walk Hike Bike

The route at a glance

The Kerry Way is a waymarked loop of roughly 210 km. Most hikers begin in Killarney and travel anti-clockwise through the national park towards Glenbeigh, then south by Waterville and Caherdaniel to Sneem and Kenmare before returning to Killarney through the Black Valley. Expect a mix of parkland paths, old bog roads, sheep tracks and quiet lanes.

Signature sights

  • Killarney National Park with Muckross, Torc and the lakes

  • The Black Valley and Gap of Dunloe scenery

  • Seaside stretches at Rossbeigh, Waterville and Derrynane

  • Old stone forts near Caherdaniel and Staigue

  • Long skylines across the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks

Classic stage ideas

Killarney → Black Valley or Bridia Valley

Leave town for parkland paths past Muckross and Torc Waterfall. Lakeside trails lead into the quiet Black Valley. Shorten or lengthen with transfers to suit.

Black/Bridia Valley → Glencar → Glenbeigh

Cross old mountain tracks with views to the Reeks before dropping to pasture and on to the shore at Glenbeigh. Add a sunset stroll on Rossbeigh Strand.

Glenbeigh → Cahersiveen or Foilmore

Coastal and hillside paths with views to the Dingle Peninsula. Detours reach ancient ringforts and island-dotted bays.

Cahersiveen/Foilmore → Waterville

Rolling ground and sea panoramas towards the village made famous by anglers and Charlie Chaplin. A fine place for a rest day.

Waterville → Caherdaniel → Sneem

Follow the coast and old butter roads to Derrynane House and beach, then continue on easy tracks to pastel-fronted Sneem.

Sneem → Kenmare

Quiet trails and farm lanes with river views bring you into historic Kenmare for great food and music.

Kenmare → Killarney via the Old Kenmare Road

One of the route’s best days. Cross open moor with mountain backdrops and finish through oak woods to Muckross and Killarney.

Deciding between routes in Kerry? Compare Kerry Way vs Dingle Way.

Kerry Way v Dingle Way - Kerry Towns - Ireland Walk Hike Bike

Short looped walks and add-ons

  • Muckross Lake Loop: Level paths and classic park views

  • Gap of Dunloe: Rugged glen with optional boat link across the lakes

  • Rossbeigh Strand: Easy beach miles near Glenbeigh

  • Derrynane Loops: Coastal tracks by beaches, dunes and the house of Daniel O’Connell

  • Staigue Fort detour: Short out-and-back to a dramatic stone fort

Grading and terrain

  • Comfortable: Park and coastal sections near Killarney, Derrynane and Rossbeigh

  • Moderate: Standard Kerry Way stages on mixed ground with steady climbs

  • Energetic: Longer mountain days between Black Valley, Glencar and Glenbeigh or extended coast-to-coast traverses

Underfoot you will find a blend of forest paths, old bog roads, rocky tracks and quiet lanes. Ground can be wet after rain. Waterproof boots and gaiters help on peaty sections.

When to go

April to October offers long days, active villages and regular services. Spring brings fresh greens and clear views. Late summer to early autumn has warm seas and softer light. Winter walking suits experienced hikers who plan for short daylight and fast-changing weather.

Kerry Way v Dingle Way - Kerry Way Scenery

Getting there and away

Start hubs: Killarney or Kenmare
Airports: Kerry, Cork, Shannon and Dublin
Public transport: Trains and buses link Killarney with Dublin, Cork and Limerick. Local services and taxis help to and from stage ends. Check current timetables before travel.
Driving: Allow time on narrow roads near trailheads and use designated parking where available.

Practical tips

  • Navigation: Waymarking is good though fog and wind are common on high ground. Guests on our trips receive detailed notes, GPX files and access to the IWHB GPS Hiking & Cycling App for offline maps.

  • Safety: Keep back from cliff edges and avoid exposed passes in strong wind or poor visibility.

  • Access: Respect farmland, close gates and follow local signage. Dogs are often restricted on grazing land.

  • Food and water: Stock up before longer mountain legs. Café hours can be seasonal in small villages.

  • Kit: Waterproofs, warm layers, hat and gloves year-round. Trekking poles help on rough or wet ground.

FAQs

How long is the Kerry Way?
About 210 km as a full loop. Most hikers take nine to eleven days, though shorter highlights work well for long weekends.

Is the Kerry Way harder than the Dingle Way?
It has more sustained upland sections and longer remote stretches. Many walkers find it a step up, especially between the Black Valley and Glenbeigh.

Which direction should I walk?
Anti-clockwise from Killarney is common for early park scenery and a smooth build to coastal stages. The route works either way.

Do I need a car?
No. Killarney is well connected by train and bus. Pre-booked transfers make linear stages simple.

Can I add the Gap of Dunloe boat trip?
Yes. In season you can combine walking the gap with a boat across the lakes to or from Ross Castle for a memorable day.

Plan your Kerry Way hike with us

Tell us your dates, preferred daily distances and comfort level. We arrange welcoming B&Bs or guesthouses, daily luggage transfers, trailhead transport where needed and 24/7 on-trip support.

Enquire now and we will build a Kerry Way adventure you will love.

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Francis Hartnett

I have over 15 years experience in activity tourism, having worked in the golf trade before joining Ireland Walk Hike Bike in 2016, becoming co-owner in 2021. I am passionate about the outdoors, with a big love for walking – as well as Rugby, Football and Golf.
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