Hiking The Ring of Kerry Mountains, 7 Days, Hike Ireland

The desolate wilderness of Mangerton Mountain is a perfect introduction of the terrain to come. Enjoy spell-bounding views over the MacGillycuddy Reeks mountains before exploring the evocatively-named Devil’s Punchbowl, a glacially-formed corrie lake. Legend has it, a monster is said to have been banished by a saint into a watery grave so be on the lookout! (B,L)

Distance: 6.5 miles/11km, 5-6hrs*

Start the morning off with a relaxing boat trip across the iconic Lakes of Killarney, the mountains of Killarney National Park unfolding on our sides. Alighting at ‘the meeting of the waters,’ we take to one of the best portions of the Kerry Way along quiet roads and mountain tracks winding their way through the Black Valley – so called because it was the last place in Ireland to be connected to the electric grid in the 1970s. (B,L)

Distance: 8 miles/13 km, 7hrs*

Carrantuohill is Ireland’s highest peak and a jewel in the crown of our Ring of Kerry hiking tour. At 1,040m, its jagged summit presents an enticing challenge for today! There are many paths to the summit: the cliff-sides of O’Shea’s Gully or the aptly named Devil’s Ladder are just two options. As we hike, we’ll take time to enjoy the wild flowers, spot raptors soaring on the mountain thermals and look out for Irish mountain hares. (B,L)

Distance: 7 miles/11km, 7hrs*

Today’s hike in the heart of the Dingle Peninsula follows in the footsteps of  the mythological Irish hero Cuchulainn who, according to legend, fought a giant by hurling fiery boulders to a nearby summit. Our hike finishes at the South Pole Inn, the family pub of Antarctic explorer Tom Crean, who made attempts at the South Pole with both Scott and Shackleton. (B,L)

Distance 6 miles/10km, 4-5hrs*

One of Ireland’s tallest mountains, Mt Brandon is named after St. Brendan the Navigator, who is said to have seen “The Promised Land” from its summit, inspiring his legendary seven year “Voyage of St Brendan.” We’ll take the road less travelled to the summit for stunning views of Brandon Bay. The Dingle Peninsula is a haven for artists and crafters and we will visit a potter’s studio to view some of the best before spending our evening in Dingle town, arguably one of the strongest bastions of traditional Irish music. Join the locals in a cheery pub for some real ‘craic agus ceoil’ (fun, music and dance) to mark our last night together on the Ring of Kerry! (B,L,D)

Distance 8.5 miles/14km, 6-7hrs*

After breakfast, we say goodbye to the group and depart for Limerick Train Station where you can begin your journey home. Along the way, we will stop for a short coastal walk along a glorious white sand beach on the Dingle Peninsula, savouring the opportunity for a final breath of fresh Atlantic air. Kick off your shoes as we walk in the sand – a great way to end a brilliant hiking trip through Kerry.

Distance 3 miles/5km, 1hr*