8-Day Self-Guided Kerry Way Hike

Begin your adventure in the vibrant town of Killarney, the perfect gateway to Ireland’s enchanting County Kerry, on our 8-Day Self-Guided Kerry Way Hike. This tour invites you to traverse a series of iconic landscapes, from the dramatic expanses of the Black Valley to the serene beauty of Glencar, where ancient stone structures and verdant meadows whisper tales of Ireland’s storied past.

Your journey continues through the picturesque coastal village of Glenbeigh, where sweeping views of the Atlantic set the scene for an unforgettable experience. The route then leads you to Cahersiveen, a town steeped in local lore and historical charm, offering panoramic vistas and a genuine taste of rural Irish life. As you progress along the Kerry Way, you’ll discover the coastal allure of Waterville and the intriguing heritage of Caherdaniel, each destination adding a unique chapter to your adventure.

Next, the trail guides you through Sneem, renowned for its vibrant streets and warm community spirit, before taking you to the historic town of Kenmare. Here, modern comforts blend seamlessly with ancient traditions, allowing you to savour local cuisine, explore artisan shops, and immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Emerald Isle. The final leg of your hike brings you full circle back to Killarney, completing a loop that perfectly encapsulates the rugged charm, breathtaking landscapes, and enduring spirit of County Kerry.

Designed for both experienced hikers and adventurous newcomers, our 8-Day Self-Guided Kerry Way Hike comes complete with detailed route maps, insider local tips, and pre-arranged accommodations to ensure a smooth and memorable journey. Experience the freedom to explore at your own pace while uncovering hidden gems and iconic landmarks along one of Ireland’s most celebrated long-distance trails. Book your tour today with Ireland Walk Hike Bike and discover why the Kerry Way remains a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic Irish outdoor adventure.

If you would like to explore this region with a local expert who will immerse you in the history & nature of this region – please see our Guided Holiday option.

For a short video of some of the highlights on this tour check out our YouTube channel here.

Whats Included?

Itinerary

Itinerary

Day 1 - Arrive to Killarney
Day 2 - Glenbeigh to Cahersiveen
Day 3 - Cahersiveen to Waterville
Day 4 - Waterville to Caherdaniel
Day 5 - Caherdaniel to Sneem
Day 6 - Sneem to Kenmare
Day 7 - Kenmare to Killarney
Day 8 - Killarney Departure

Tour Map

Single Room Supplement: €310
Solo Traveller Supplement: €655

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

The Ring of Kerry – the famous scenic driving route which circumnavigates the Iveragh Peninsula

Lough Acoose: A picturesque mountain lake situated in the Black Valley, offering a peaceful setting for reflection and rest.

Caherdaniel: A charming village with beautiful beaches, known for its scenic views and historical sites like the ancient Derrynane House.

Old Kenmare Road: A historic path through Killarney National Park, known for its tranquil atmosphere, stunning scenery, and rich history dating back to the 19th century

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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