Kerry – Ireland

Your adventure begins as you arrive in Ireland, where transport will be arranged to collect you from Dublin. It’s well connected to Europe, making your journey smooth and hassle-free. The meeting point, where we will start our journey to the mountains is in the city. The transfer will leave at 12pm and takes around 3,5 hours. If you arrive before this time there are several luggage storage places so you can use the time to explore Dublin. If you’re arriving a day early, we can suggest excellent accommodation options to ensure a relaxed start to your journey.

For the duration of the trip, you’ll be based just outside Killarney, right in the heart of the West Irish mountains. This means you won’t have to carry all your belongings from place to place, and after each day of hiking, you’ll return to the comfort of a warm shower and a cosy bed. Get ready for an unforgettable week exploring one of Europe’s most spectacular mountain landscapes.

Click for Route Map :  15 km  4-6 h  ~650 m  ●●●○○ — Moderate

This extended route combines the summit of Torc Mountain with a scenic loop around Muckross Lake, blending mountain views with classic Killarney landscapes. Starting near Muckross House, the trail first skirts the shoreline, passing quiet inlets, wooded paths, and views across to Dinis Cottage.

From the lake, the path climbs gradually toward Torc Waterfall, where the cascade tumbles through oak woodland. Above the falls the stone path and boardwalk lead steadily to the summit of Torc Mountain (535 m), rewarding with a sweeping panorama over the Lakes of Killarney, the Reeks, and the Atlantic coastline.

The descent loops back through forest and past sections of the Kerry Way before returning to Muckross, completing a varied and rewarding day that captures the best of both lowland and upland Killarney scenery.

Click for Route Map :  11 km  5-6 h  ~900 m  ●●●○○ — Moderate

Mount Brandon (952 m) is Ireland’s highest peak outside the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks and a mountain steeped in history and pilgrimage. The route begins from the village of Ballybrack, following the Saints’ Road, an old pilgrimage path marked with crosses that winds gradually onto the open slopes.

The trail climbs through boggy ground and rocky outcrops before steepening toward the summit ridge, where wide views open over the Dingle Peninsula, the Blasket Islands, and the Atlantic Ocean. On clear days the panorama is one of the most spectacular in Ireland, while misty weather adds to the mountain’s mystical character.

The return follows a different way down nearer the coast, making for a tough but atmospheric climb. With its mix of cultural heritage, rugged ascent, and sweeping ocean views, Mount Brandon is a standout hike on the Wild Atlantic Way.

Click for Route Map : 13-14 km  6–7 h  ~1,000 m  ●●●●○ — Challenging

Carrauntoohil (1,038 m) is Ireland’s highest mountain and a demanding but rewarding climb in the heart of the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks. The trail route begins from Cronin’s Yard, following a rough path into Hag’s Glen with the jagged ridges of the Reeks rising on either side.

The ascent continues up the steep gully known as the Devil’s Ladder, climbing between Carrauntoohil and Cnoc na Toinne before reaching the summit plateau. At the top stands a large iron cross, with views stretching across Kerry’s mountains, lakes, and Atlantic coastline on clear days.

The descent comes down through Heavenly Gates offering breathtaking views of the lakes and Carrauntoohil behind, before eventually rejoining the first path back to Cronin’s Yard.

After several days of hiking through County Kerry’s wild landscapes, today is a chance to slow down, explore the villages at your own pace, or take a day trip to one of the country’s other stunning destinations.

There are hundreds more hikes you can go for alone if you still have the energy or maybe you would like to venture further into nature and visit the magical Cliffs of Moher or the Cliffs of Kerry. We have lots of ideas for you if you need some inspiration. A visit to the nearby town of Killarney is also a great option.

Click for Route Map : 10 km  4–5 h  ~750 m  ●●●○○ — Moderate

Mangerton Mountain (838 m) offers a steady but rewarding climb above Killarney, combining wide views with a dramatic mountain lake. Starting from a trailhead a few kilometres outside the town, the path climbs gradually on a clear track through open moorland with the Reeks often visible in the distance.

The route leads to the Devil’s Punchbowl, a striking corrie lake cradled high on the mountain’s slopes. From here the path continues upward to Mangerton’s broad summit plateau, where the views extend over the Lakes of Killarney, the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, and, on clear days, out to the Atlantic.

The descent retraces the same path, completing a straightforward but highly scenic outing. Less technical than many of Kerry’s peaks, Mangerton makes an excellent choice for a moderate mountain day in the southwest.

Click for Route Map :  15 km  5–6 h  ~900 m  ●●●●○ — Challenging

*** Alternative option available for those who want an easier day.

Purple Mountain (832 m) rises above the Lakes of Killarney and offers one of the most rewarding ridge hikes in the southwest of Ireland. The route begins near the Head of the Gap of Dunloe, climbing steadily through heathery slopes and rocky ground toward the broad summit ridge.

The path continues across the tops of Purple Mountain and its outlying summits, with constant views over Lough Leane, the Black Valley, and the jagged Reeks to the west. On clear days, the panorama extends to the Atlantic and the Dingle Peninsula.

The descent loops back through the Gap of Dunloe, completing a circuit that combines rugged mountain scenery with glimpses of some of Ireland’s most iconic landscapes. Though less known than Carrauntoohil or Brandon, Purple Mountain offers a quieter but equally striking hiking experience.

If you would prefer the shorter walk, you have the option to wait in the cafe while the other do the final 6km through the Gap of Dunloe with a climb of about 300m, taking around 1,5 hours.

After an incredible week exploring the wild beauty of the Irish west coast, it’s time to pack your bags and begin your journey onwards. Transport will be arranged to take you back to Dublin. It’s recommended not to book a flight before 4pm on the final day to give us plenty of time to get back to the airport.

If you’re extending your stay, there are plenty of incredible places to explore beyond the mountains. We’d be happy to share recommendations to help you make the most of your time.

As you leave Kerry behind, you’ll take with you memories of dramatic peaks, wild forests, and unforgettable adventures in one of Europe’s most breathtaking landscapes. Until next time!