10 Spectacular Hikes In Kerry You Need To Experience

With restrictions easing and inter-county travelling now allowed once more, the Kingdom of Kerry is the perfect destination for a staycation or even just a day of adventure and discovery in the great outdoors.

At Ballyseede Castle, we are so lucky to be nestled in one of the most stunning parts of the country and indeed the world. From mountain ranges, beaches, cliffs, forests and islands, there is no doubt Kerry offers some of Ireland’s most picturesque scenery and enchanting beauty spots.

The vast array of breathtaking walks and hikes in the Kingdom of Kerry made it almost impossible to shortlist our favourites. From leisurely family strolls to hiking up Ireland’s highest mountain, we have tried to include a wide variety of hikes, some suitable for experienced hikers and others for beginners.

Below are just some of our favourite hikes and walks in our wonderful county:

Ballyseedy Woods

We may be biased with this one, seeing as it’s right on our doorstep here at Ballyseede Castle, but Ballyseedy Woods had to be on our list of favourite walks in Kerry.

Dating back to at least the 16th century, it is a tranquil retreat spanning nearly 80 acres, with at least 22 different varieties of native trees and a number of ruins and follies within.

A family-friendly walk suitable for all skill levels, with very easily accessible paths, Ballyseedy Woods is a hidden treasure and worthy of its place on our list of favourite walks and hikes.

Kerry Camino

The three-day Kerry Camino also makes our list of favourite hikes in Kerry. A moderate-level hike, the Kerry Camino is part of the Camino de Santiago network of ancient pilgrim routes all over Europe.

This hike begins at St. John’s Church in Tralee and follows the route believed to have been taken by pilgrims and St. Brendan the Navigator to St. James Church in Dingle.

For the most part, the route follows the famous Dingle Way, passing through 6,000 years of Irish history along the Wild Atlantic Way, rugged mountainsides, coastal scenery and several towns and villages.

Walkers can use a passport and mark their progress at the various stamping stations on the route. The average distance is around 19.5 km per day, or between five and seven hours of hiking, so it is more suited to moderate or experienced hikers.

Mount Brandon

Next on our list of favourite hikes in Kerry is Mount Brandon. Another moderate-level hike, this well-marked walk is the perfect choice for intermediate hikers looking for a manageable and enjoyable challenge.

The ninth-highest mountain in Ireland, its peak offers sensational views of the Dingle Peninsula.

Rich with history and tradition, this hike also offers epic views of lakes, waterfalls, sheer cliff faces along the Atlantic coastline, the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, Carrauntoohil, the Blasket Islands and even the Aran Islands on a clear day.

This 10 km hike can take upwards of five hours, but it is without question one of the most scenic hikes in the country and was an easy decision to add to our list of favourites.

© Fáilte Ireland – Courtesy of Valerie O'Sullivan

Bray Head

Next to make our list of favourites is the Bray Tower Loop at Bray Head on Valentia Island.

With two options to access the island, via ferry from Reenard Point or by road over a bridge from Portmagee, Bray Head is a stunning hike in the far west of the Iveragh Peninsula.

From the moment you drive into the car park, the views are remarkable. The sounds of the waves crashing against the rocks, as well as the cliff and sea views, make this one of the most scenic coastal hikes in Ireland.

This hike offers unrivalled views of the Skellig and Blasket Islands, Dingle Sound and, of course, Valentia Island and the Iveragh Peninsula itself. However, the highlight of the hike is undoubtedly the ruins of the iconic Napoleonic Watchtower.

Overall, this loop is a family-friendly, comfortable hike for most fitness levels. Its paths are easily accessible and suitable for all skill levels.

Lomanagh Loop

Another manageable but spectacular hike that has made our list is the Lomanagh Loop.

Perfect for beginners, it offers beautiful views of the surrounding woodlands, farmlands and picturesque countryside of the Kingdom of Kerry.

Beginning in Sneem, this 10 km hike will take around three and a half hours and is mostly made up of paths and trails, so it is not too challenging and is the perfect way to pass a few hours.

Derrynane Loop Walk

Near Caherdaniel, the Derrynane Loop Walk is next on our list of favourite hikes in Kerry.

This is a moderate 9 km hike that will take an average of three and a half hours around the incredible Derrynane National Park.

You pass through woodland on the hills above the stunning Derrynane Beach, see Derrynane House and take in parts of the Mass Path route and Kerry Way.

In general, the loop has well-defined paths throughout and is a thoroughly enjoyable hike that will not disappoint.

Gap of Dunloe

Another moderate-level hike, the Gap of Dunloe was a certainty for our list of favourite hikes in Kerry.

Starting at the famous Kate Kearney’s Cottage and taking you through the majestic Gap of Dunloe, this hike follows a narrow and winding road through the mountain pass between the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks and Purple Mountain.

Along the way, you will enjoy magnificent views of lakes, incredible mountains and the River Loe.

Overall, this 11 km moderate hike will take around three and a half to four hours to complete and is a little more challenging than others on this list, but it is definitely worth it.

Don’t forget to make a wish at the Wishing Bridge near the beginning of the hike. You never know, it might just come true!

© Chris Hill Photographic

Muckross Abbey to Torc Waterfall

Definitely one of the easier or more intermediate walks and hikes on our list is the route from Muckross Abbey to Torc Waterfall in Killarney.

This is an extremely popular and scenic route, taking in spectacular views of the lakes and mountains of Killarney National Park, Muckross House and Gardens, Muckross Abbey and Torc Waterfall.

The famous Torc Waterfall is positioned at the foot of Torc Mountain, which can also be explored by those looking for an extra challenge.

Overall, this is a very easily accessible path and is suitable for all skill levels.

Lough Googh Loop

One of the more strenuous, difficult and challenging hikes to make our list is the Lough Googh Loop.

This one is definitely for more experienced hikers and is not for the faint-hearted. There are narrow ridge sections along the way, so you need to be comfortable with heights before beginning your hike.

The views along the route are nothing short of breathtaking, taking in parts of Killarney National Park from unique angles and making the exposed edges and ridges worthwhile.

The loop is 10 km in total and will take roughly five hours to complete. If you are up for a challenge and are an experienced hiker, this is definitely right up your street and a hike we would recommend.

Carrauntoohil – Devil’s Ladder Route

No list of hikes in Kerry would be complete without Carrauntoohil.

There are several different ways to approach Carrauntoohil, but we have decided to add the Devil’s Ladder route to our list of favourite hikes. It is probably the most popular route up Ireland’s tallest mountain.

This is definitely a hike for more experienced hikers, or intermediate hikers who are ready to step it up and face the challenge head-on.

It may be challenging, but it is also unforgettable. The lakeside, seaside and mountain-edge views along the hike and from the top of Carrauntoohil are something that will live long in your memory and are a fitting reward for the difficult challenge of reaching the summit.

The 12 km Devil’s Ladder route can take up to six hours and is definitely the most difficult hike on our list.

Book Your Staycation Now

If you want to try some of the hikes on this list or are looking to explore the Kingdom of Kerry, why not book a luxury staycation with us here at Ballyseede Castle? You deserve it!

As Kerry’s only castle hotel, we offer an authentic castle experience full of Irish charm and personality and are the perfect base for touring the county.

Check out our amazing staycation offers from €179 per room.