IRELAND'S ULTIMATE
Hiking adventure

Your adventure begins as you arrive in Ireland, where transport will be arranged to collect you from Dublin Airport. It’s well connected to many European airports  making your journey smooth and hassle-free. 

To make the most of your trip, we recommend arriving in the morning or afternoon, giving you time to settle in and also a great opportunity to meet your fellow adventurers. 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.

Distance – 17km, Elevation – 1350m, Time – 7 Hours

Ireland’s highest mountain, Carrauntoohil (1,038 m), is a serious but spectacular challenge for hikers looking for a real mountain day. The most popular route starts from Cronin’s Yard and heads into the dramatic Hag’s Glen, surrounded by steep, craggy peaks. The climb up the Devil’s Ladder — a steep gully with loose scree — is tough but short, leading to a rocky path that continues to the summit. From the top, views stretch across the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, Lough Leane, and the wild Atlantic horizon. It’s a hike where the sense of scale and drama builds with every step — and reaching the summit cross feels genuinely rewarding. Only experienced hikers or well-prepared walkers should attempt it in poor weather, but on a clear day, it’s a must.

Distance – 11.9km, Elevation – 950m, Time – 5,5 Hours

Located on the Dingle Peninsula, Mount Brandon is Ireland’s second-highest mountain (952 m) and deeply rooted in Celtic spirituality. The Pilgrim’s Path starts near Ballybrack, gently winding past religious markers, boggy hillsides, and coastal views that open up the higher you climb. As you ascend, the trail becomes rockier, eventually reaching the summit ridge with breathtaking views over Brandon Bay and the Blasket Islands. On a clear day, the ocean stretches endlessly, and the sense of remoteness is powerful. There’s a mystical feel to this mountain — a blend of ancient pilgrimage route and raw natural beauty — that makes it more than just a hike. It’s about a 1.5-hour drive from Killarney but well worth the early start.

Distance – 13.8km, Elevation – 850m, Time – 5,5 Hours

This hidden gem hike begins near the Gap of Dunloe, a narrow mountain pass lined with old stone walls and tiny cottages, often travelled by horse-drawn jaunting cars. Once past the lower lakes, you’ll branch off onto a rugged, lesser-used path up the Purple Mountain massif. The climb is steep and unmarked in places, but the reward is a high ridge walk with incredible views of the Killarney Lakes, the Reeks, and even the Black Valley below. It’s a quieter hike than Carrauntoohil but just as majestic — and a great way to feel immersed in a more untamed corner of Killarney National Park. Navigation skills help on this one, as signage is minimal.

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. We have lots of ideas for you if you need some inspiration.

Distance – 9.9km, Elevation – 767m, Time – 5 Hours

A favourite with locals, Mangerton Mountain rises just outside Killarney and offers a wilder, windier counterpart to the Reeks. The trail starts gently through heathland before reaching the beautiful Devil’s Punchbowl, a glacial lake nestled in a deep hollow beneath the summit. From there, the climb steepens, following a stony path along the rim of the bowl up to Mangerton’s flat summit plateau. The views from the top are vast — sweeping across Killarney National Park, Muckross Lake, and beyond. This route is accessible year-round, with a remote and windswept feel that contrasts nicely with more popular peaks. It’s a great moderate day hike with a real sense of isolation at the top.

Distance – 13.2km, Elevation – 595m, Time – 5 Hours

Begin at the iconic Torc Waterfall, just outside Killarney, and follow a well-maintained trail that climbs steadily through forest and heathland to the summit of Torc Mountain. The summit itself, though not high by Irish standards (535 m), offers one of the best panoramic views of the Lakes of Killarney. You can then extend the walk into a loop via the Old Kenmare Road, passing through bog bridges, wooded glens, and the peaceful Derrycunnihy Church ruins. It’s a more mellow route compared to the others, but it delivers outstanding scenery and is a great option for a flexible day when weather or energy might not permit a full mountain climb.

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 too early 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!