Beara Way Hiking Tour (8 Day)

Arrive in the coastal village of Glengarriff, where the hills meet the sea along a lovely river. Check into your accommodations and pick up your detailed information pack, which includes route guides and contact information.

The first night is yours to explore the village and prepare for the adventure ahead. If time provides, check out nearby Garinish Island, with gorgeous Italian gardens to admire.

The adventure begins! Set out westward along the Beara Way, hiking through the shadows of the Sugarloaf and Glenlough Mountains. Brilliant views to the south of Bantry Bay and the Sheep’s Head peninsula accompany you. Arrive in the village of Adrigole to complete the day, but not before a short detour to see an array of standing stones and megalithic tombs nearby.

When you’re ready to return to Glengarriff for the evening, call a taxi for the transfer back to town.

You’ll be driven to Castletownbere to your accommodation for the next day, and then back to Adrigole (where you have finished your route yesterday) to start today’s hike. The slopes of Hungry Hill and Maulin Mountain loom overhead as you make your way west along the shores of Bantry Bay. Your destination is the port of Castletownbere, where you’ll find some of the freshest seafood in all of Ireland!

Much of today’s hike takes place on rocky terrain with no clear paths underfoot. The route can be quite wet – good boots are essential!

Today you’ll explore the fascinating Bere Island, just off the coast from Castletownbere. The ferry takes about ten minutes. Chock-full of history from ancient to recent, there’s plenty to see!

Tombs and standing stones dot the island, while Martello Towers and various forts still hold their positions overlooking the bay. There’s even a shipwreck off the northern coast. Around every corner, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the mainland, Bantry Bay, and the open ocean. When you’re ready to rest, return to Castletownbere for the evening.

Continue your westward journey as you head for the village of Eyeries. You’ll walk towards North, through the Slieve Miskish Mountains. Today you’ll leave the Beara Way to hike up the Teernahillane, from where you’ll rejoin the Beara Way again on the other side. You’ll reach the village of Eyeres walking along the scenic coast.

Your day will start with a transfer to the village of Ardgroom, from where your hike will begin. Today you’ll be approaching the little village of Lauragh, with many opportunities to observe the stone circles that this area is famous for. Enjoy beautiful mountain views as you approach the base of the famous Healy Pass, where the village of Lauragh is located at.

Begin with a transfer to Drombohilly, the starting point for your final day of hiking. A fantastic day awaits! Make the first of two hilly ascents, with stunning views of Caha Bay and the world-famous Ring of Kerry. Descend to the Cloonee Lakes and walk along the tranquil shores of Lough Inchiquin.

Make your final ascent before heading back down into the Dromoghty Valley. Hike along small backroads before linking up with the main road for the final stretch into Kenmare.

An adventure completed! Check out from your accommodations and depart Kenmare via your own arrangements.