8-Day Self-Guided Beara Way Hike

Set out on an extraordinary 8-day self-guided Beara Way Hike, where the rugged beauty of West Cork unfolds along Ireland’s picturesque southwestern coast. This independent adventure is expertly designed for explorers seeking the perfect blend of physical challenge and cultural immersion, with comprehensive route maps, insider local tips, and carefully arranged accommodations to ensure a seamless journey through one of the Emerald Isle’s most captivating regions.

Your journey begins in the charming coastal town of Glengarriff, serving as the gateway to the wild landscapes of the Beara Peninsula. As you follow scenic trails that meander along dramatic cliff edges and traverse rolling green hills, you’ll uncover hidden gems like the quaint village of Adrigole, where stunning ocean views and untamed terrain set the stage for your adventure. Continue your exploration by cycling or hiking through the vibrant streets of Castletownbere—a bustling harbor town steeped in maritime heritage—before venturing onto the tranquil paths of Bere Island, a secluded retreat that truly showcases the untamed beauty of the Atlantic.

Each day on the Beara Way reveals new wonders: from the colorful charm of Allihies, with its iconic stone walls and lively local traditions, to the dramatic expanse of Dursey Sound and the remote allure of Dursey Island. Along the way, you’ll have ample opportunities to indulge in authentic Irish experiences, savor hearty local cuisine in traditional pubs, and engage with friendly locals who embody the warm spirit of West Cork. Whether you’re pausing to capture breathtaking sunrise vistas over the Atlantic or exploring ancient trails that whisper tales of old, the 8-day Self-Guided Beara Way Hike promises a deeply immersive adventure that celebrates the natural splendor and storied heritage of Ireland’s wild west.

Book your tour today with Ireland Walk Hike Bike and create memories that will last a lifetime as you explore the majestic landscapes of the Beara Peninsula.

Whats Included?

Itinerary

Itinerary

Day 1 - Glengarriff
Day 2 - Glengarriff to Adrigole
Day 3 - Adrigole to Castletownbere
Day 4 - Bere Island
Day 5 - Castletownbere to Eyeries
Day 6 - Ardgroom to Lauragh
Day 7 - Drombohily to Kenmare
Day 8 - Depart Kenmare

Tour Map

Single Room Supplement: €330
Solo Traveller Supplement: €450

Grading

This grading is given to our Classic Walks & Self-Guiding Hikes which take you across open-mountain and bogland (wet conditions). The terrain is varied and each day will have uphill and downhill hiking, some of which may be steep. The maximum height we reach is 950 metres (3,100 feet) approx. This grade is suitable for people with a good level of fitness and capable of walking up to 20kms (12.5 miles) a day.

Highlights

Diverse Landscapes – Traverse a mix of terrain from rolling green hills and pastoral farmland to wild, windswept coastal paths that showcase the region’s natural beauty.

Serenity on Bere Island – Experience the tranquility and untouched beauty of Bere Island, where quiet trails and coastal scenery create a peaceful retreat.

Rich Historical Heritage – Discover ancient ruins, traditional stone walls, and relics from bygone eras that tell the story of Ireland’s storied past.

Challenging Yet Accessible Trails – Benefit from well-marked routes that cater to a variety of fitness levels, ensuring a rewarding hike for both seasoned adventurers and casual walkers.

Why book with us?

Hiking Day Transfers

We include transfers to and from the hikes to improve your hiking experience. We remove unnecessary road sections on multiple days to maximise your enjoyment of each trail.

Overnight Locations

We have carefully selected the start and finish locations for your overnights to allow for easy access and departure by public transfers. If not, we include a transfer to/ from the nearest transfer hub.

Our Tailormade App

Our app is not just a GPS navigation tool. You will have your entire holiday in your hand. You will have easy access to your route notes, points of interest, destination details and emergency contact information.

We write our own Route Notes

Our new route notes are even easier to follow with marked maps and distances between each point. We hike and re-check the routes each year to ensure all details are up to date.

Book Now

To book your tour choose your preferred Tour Start Date and click on Next Step below the calendar.

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