Kerry Way Self-Guided Walking Tour
Discover the unforgettable Kerry Way with every step on this hike
Self-Guided
Kerry Way Self-Guided Walking Tour Overview
Ireland's Kerry Way makes for a world-class walking tour! Combining stunning scenery, from lakes to mountains to rugged coastlines, it provides a mix of some of the best views in Ireland.
This 8-day self-guided Kerry Way walking tour provides a comprehensive adventure around the Ring of Kerry, one that is certain to leave you with lifelong memories of a beautiful adventure. For those with less this route can be shortened to a 5-day version of the Kerry Way, or expanded to an 11-day Kerry Way walking tour.
Begin in vibrant Killarney, gateway to the spellbinding landscapes of County Kerry. This 8-day self-guided hike winds through iconic scenes—from the dramatic Black Valley to the peaceful glens of Glencar, where ancient ruins and lush meadows echo with legends of the past.
Your path sets out from Glenbeigh, a charming coastal village offering sweeping Atlantic views, then on to Cahersiveen, rich in history and local lore. From the rugged shores of Waterville to the cultural depths of Caherdaniel, each stop unveils a new facet of Ireland’s untamed beauty. Continue through colourful Sneem and into historic Kenmare, where tradition meets modern comforts. Delight in local cuisine, explore artisan shops, and soak in the warm community spirit before the trail loops back to Killarney—completing a journey steeped in natural wonder and timeless Irish charm.
The Kerry Way is ideal for seasoned hikers and curious explorers alike, the tour includes detailed route maps, curated local insights, luggage transfers, and pre-booked accommodations. Travel at a personal pace, uncover hidden gems, and experience one of Ireland’s most beloved long-distance trails.
Trip highlights
Dine on the famous food and drink of Kenmare’s best pubs for a true Irish experience.
Visit the hometown of Daniel O’Connell, also known as “The Liberator”
Spot the forbidding Skellig Islands across the water from the tip of the Iveragh Peninsula.
Follow a stagecoach trail along the shores of the fabulous Dingle Bay.
Day By Day Itinerary
Arrive at your first accommodation in Killarney town where your holiday begins.
- Overnight Location:
- Guesthouse or B&B in Killarney
- Distance:
- None
- Meals:
- None
Your walk begins this morning with a short transfer to Glenbeigh. From Glenbeigh, follow an old Stage Coach route that winds through rich bogland and offers sweeping views of Dingle Bay and the striking coastline. The scenery gradually shifts inland, leading to a peaceful woodland path that guides the way into Cahersiveen.
- Overnight Location:
- Guesthouse or B&B in Cahersiveen
- Distance:
- 24 km, 555 m of ascent, 643 m of descent
- Meals:
- Breakfast
Heading south from Cahersiveen, the trail climbs over rolling hills before descending into a quiet valley. Another ascent leads westward, revealing breathtaking views of the Skellig Islands and the Wild Atlantic Way, before arriving in the coastal village of Waterville.
- Overnight Location:
- Guesthouse or B&B in Waterville
- Distance:
- 18 km, 653 m of ascent, 789 m of descent
- Meals:
- Breakfast
Today’s spectacular hike reaches the westernmost point of the Ring of Kerry, tracing a scenic coastal path along rugged headlands and sea inlets en route to the charming village of Caherdaniel.
- Overnight Location:
- Hotel in Caherdaniel
- Distance:
- 14.5 km, 336 m of ascent, 304 m of descent
- Meals:
- Breakfast
Heading southeast, the sea stays in sight while the route weaves through quiet boreens, farm tracks, and hillside paths. Panoramic views across Kenmare Bay to the Beara Peninsula guide the way to the colourful village of Sneem.
- Overnight Location:
- Hotel in Sneem
- Distance:
- 17.5 km, 533 m of ascent, 547 m of descent
- Meals:
- Breakfast
Beginning just east of Sneem, the trail leads inland to the scenic Blackwater Bridge. From there, follow the shoreline of Kenmare Bay before a final hilltop ascent rewards with sweeping views of the heritage town of Kenmare.
- Overnight Location:
- Guesthouse or B&B in Kenmare
- Distance:
- 27.5 km, 733 m of ascent, 734 m of descent
- Meals:
- Breakfast
Climbing to the “Windy Gap,” the trail follows the historic Old Kenmare Road into the heart of Killarney National Park. Wander through ancient oak forests, pass the cascading Torc Waterfall, explore the grounds of Muckross House and Gardens, and conclude in the lively town of Killarney.
- Overnight Location:
- Guesthouse or B&B in Killarney
- Distance:
- 27.5 km, 733 m of ascent, 734 m of descent
- Meals:
- Breakfast
Depart after breakfast by public bus or train from Killarney, or catch a flight from nearby Kerry International Airport.
- Overnight Location:
- None
- Distance:
- None
- Meals:
- Breakfast
Tour Map
We know Adventure
10Adventures only does Hiking, Cycling and Adventure Holidays. Its our mission to help you explore the world!
Inclusions
Included
- 7 breakfasts are included.
- Accommodations for 7 nights are included.
- Transport to the start of the hike on Days 3 and 6 is included. Luggage transfers each day are also included on the tour.
- Detailed route book with full area maps or GPS-enabled app for navigation & points of interest
- 24-hour emergency/information support
- Full pre-departure information to maximize your experience
- In-house holiday specialist to assist with any additional services
Not included
- Travel insurance
- Flights
- Meals, drinks, or snacks not previously mentioned
- Visas if required
- Entrance fees to any sites or parks
Optional Extras
- Additional accommodation nights before or after the tour
- Single occupancy upgrades
- Welcome briefing and follow-up phone call upgrades
- Extra services:
- Welcome briefing
- Welcome briefing and follow up calls during the tour
Reviews
These reviews reflect all trips offered by this local tour partner on 10Adventures, not just the tour you’re viewing.
These reviews reflect all trips offered by this local tour partner on 10Adventures, not just the tour you’re viewing.
Travellers love 10Adventures
View all
FAQ
We rate this tour as a 3/5. A moderate level of fitness is required for the distance and elevation changes on this route, and previous hiking experience is recommended. However, no technical expertise or gear is necessary. The route involves various surfaces: grass mountain tracks, country lanes, road walking, and bogland, with some wet sections underfoot. Good boots are essential.
Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website, though you should verify with your government.
Self-guided travelling is not difficult! For many, it is a preferred type of travel as you are in charge of your own time and pace. You are provided all the information on which direction you need to go daily. However, self-guided travelling requires good navigation skills and those who don’t feel confident in unknown places should consider booking guided tours.
7 breakfasts are included.
Yes, it is mandatory to have health and medical insurance to join this trip, and your insurance should cover hiking. Get your Travel Insurance.
Fly into Kerry Airport (KIR). Being a regional airport, you may need to connect via one of Ireland’s three international airports. From Kerry Airport, the town of Killarney is 20 minutes away by car and about 30-40 minutes by public transport. You can also travel from Cork International Airport (ORK), roughly 2 hours from Killarney by bus. Your holiday specialist can assist you with arrival and departure plans if needed.
No. You will be provided with all required information to complete your self-guided tour.
The tour ends in Killarney (where it begins).
Check with your family doctor.
Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.
Why book Kerry Way Self-Guided Walking Tour with 10 Adventures?
Self-guided Specialists
Combine the freedom of travelling on your own with the confidence that all of the logistics are taken care of.
Packed with Inclusions
Accommodations, luggage transfers, gear rentals, and more - all taken care of so you can focus on making memories.
World Class Support
Have peace of mind for when travel plans change with our hassle-free booking process and unbeatable support.
Let's start talking about your next adventure!