- Carrauntoohil via Devil’s Ladder: challenging ascent (around 12 km return, 6–8 hours) to Ireland’s highest peak at 1,039 metres in the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks. Starting from Cronin’s Yard or Lisleibane, the steep route climbs the infamous loose gully of Devil’s Ladder before reaching the summit cross, rewarding with panoramic views over the Reeks, Killarney lakes, and distant peninsulas – an iconic bucket-list hike for experienced walkers seeking rugged adventure.
- Mount Brandon Pilgrim Path: strenuous yet spiritually evocative climb (around 9 km return, 4–6 hours) from Faha or Cloghane on the Dingle Peninsula to the 952-metre summit, following ancient stations of the cross. The well-marked path traverses ridges and corries, offering breathtaking vistas across Brandon Bay, the Blasket Islands, and Tralee Bay – steeped in mythology and pilgrimage tradition, it’s one of Kerry’s most revered mountain trails.
- Torc Waterfall and Mountain Loop: moderate forested circuit (around 8–11 km, 3–4 hours) in Killarney National Park, starting near Torc Waterfall car park. The trail ascends through ancient oak woods and open moorland to Torc Mountain’s viewpoint, with stunning overlooks of the Lakes of Killarney, Muckross, and the Reeks – a magical blend of thundering 20-metre falls, serene woodlands, and expansive upland scenery.
- Gap of Dunloe: spectacular moderate valley walk (around 11–14 km one way, 4–5 hours, often combined with boat transfer) from Kate Kearney’s Cottage through the dramatic glacial pass between MacGillycuddy’s Reeks and Purple Mountain. The route winds past serene lakes, sheer rock faces, and historic bridges, with sweeping views of jagged peaks – a quintessential Kerry experience blending raw natural beauty and tranquillity.
- Skellig Michael Landing Steps Trail: unique and exhilarating steep ascent (around 2 km return climb, plus boat access) to the UNESCO-listed monastic island off the Iveragh Peninsula. The 618 ancient stone steps lead to 6th-century beehive huts and clifftop terraces, surrounded by crashing Atlantic waves and puffin colonies – an otherworldly hike of historical and natural wonder (weather-dependent, with limited seasonal access).
Hiking
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