Ireland Walking
The Marvels of County Kerry
Appreciate the artistry of a stone wall. The warmth of a wool sweater. The charm of an afternoon pint. The laughter of strangers. Recognize a beautiful day can be cloudy with a chance of rain. And that vacations don’t need to be measured in tan lines. Ireland is unmistakable. In its culture, its landscape, its weather, its charm and its worldwide appreciation. Walk quiet centuries-old footpaths with us to discover your very own inner Irishman.
- Ireland’s spectacular natural beauty seen during country-road rambles and coastal-cliff walks
- Explore Killarney's craft shops, elegant boutiques and lively pubs
- Evening with a well-known Irish storyteller
- Hike in wild Killarney National Park, with windswept mountains, deep lakes and gorges
- Private whiskey tasting
- Go behind the scenes with seasoned local guide Mike Murphy, who has joined us on our Ireland walks since the early 90s
The Day-to-Day Itinerary
Days 1-2 Ireland's spectacular natural beauty seen during country road rambles and coastal cliff walks 
Hike along Caragh Lake with views of the striking glacier-carved Glencar Valley From the top of aptly name Windy Gap, gaze at Dingle Bay - and be sure to hold onto your hat!
Day 3 Explore historic Killarney's craft shops, elegant boutiques and lively pubs The oaks of Tomies Woods shade our route to O’Sullivan’s Cascade Stroll to 15th-century Ross Castle on the shore of Lower Lake Delight in the lost art of storytelling as a local seanachie spins enchanting tales.
Day 4 Hike in wild Killarney National Park, with windswept mountains, deep lakes and gorges, with our longtime friend and local guide Michael Murphy Visit Muckross Estate - famed for its collection of exotic plants - and Torc Waterfall before arriving in charming Kenmare, where rows of houses sport cheerfully painted façades and ornate plasterwork Up for some indulgence? The hotel spa delivers!
Days 5-6 Private whiskey tasting with aficionado John Moriarty On the rugged Beara Peninsula, trek over Mount Knockagarrane, taking in awe-inspiring views of the pristine lakes and sculpted mountains of Inchiquin Valley Quiet paths lead to one of the largest stone circles in County Kerry.
- Premiere Inns: These lodgings possess both elegance and authentic regional flair.
- Casual Inns: These lodgings are comfortable and appropriate to the area with such characteristics as authenticity, scenic settings and proximity to our activities.
- Deluxe Family Camping: We set up the tents (and take them down), handle every camp chore and perform culinary magic.
Other Trips You Might Like:
Czech Republic Walking Dalmatian Coast Walking Norway WalkingOther Europe Trips
Look at what other guests are saying about this trip!
Backroads never fails to provide a unique travel experience, one I can brag about to all my friends. It is difficult to put a price on all that is learned and experienced on a Backroads trip, and it is hard to convey to others not on the trip all the feelings we gather on such a trip. They will just have to come along next time and see for themselves.- Stillwater, MN More about this Trip All Guest Reviews
For 32 years, Backroads has been perfecting the art of active travel. We are the tour experts. To see all our walking tours and hiking tours click here. For our selection of award-winning biking tours click here. For our selection of award-winning multisport tours click here.
Ireland Walking
Premiere Inns
Carrig Country House
Caragh Lake (2 nights) Enjoy the gracious hospitality of Mary and Frank Slattery at this restored Victorian gem, set on the shores of Caragh Lake on the world-renowned Ring of Kerry.
Killarney Park Hotel
Killarney (1 night) A handsome family-owned hotel, promising and delivering "warmth beyond the smile," in the heart of Killarney. (pool, spa)
Park Hotel Kenmare
Kenmare (2 nights) It’s just a short walk to the pubs and shops from this regal Victorian estate set on Kenmare Bay and surrounded by magnificent parkland. A Small Luxury Hotels of the World member. (pool, spa, golf)
Ireland Walking
Routes For All Abilities
Every Backroads trip is designed to appeal to a wide variety of interests and fitness levels. We know your pace may vary from one day to the next-and your traveling companion's may differ somewhat from yours. So we present a range of mileage options, and each day you decide exactly what and how much you want to do.
| Activity Level | Average Time | Biking Average | Walking Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2-3 hours | 10-20 miles | 2-5 miles |
| 2 | 2-4 hours | 21-30 miles | 5-7 miles |
| 3 | 3-5 hours | 31-40 miles | 7-9 miles |
| 4 | 4-6 hours | 41-55 miles | 9-11 miles |
| 5 | 5-7+ hours | 56-75+ miles | 11-13+ miles |
Daily Mileage Options & Cumulative Elevation Gain
Day 1
- Levels 1 to 3
2 Route Options Available
- 3.7, 8 miles
- 0 - 330 feet elevation gain
Day 2
- Levels 2 to 4 2 Route Options Available
- 6.2, 10.3 miles
- 1200 - 1550 feet elevation gain
Day 3
- Level 2 2 Route Options Available
- 2.7, 5.7 miles
- 0 - 900 feet elevation gain
Day 4
- Levels 1 to 5 4 Route Options Available
- 3, 8.5, 11.6, 15.2 miles
- 0 - 2050 feet elevation gain
Day 5
- Levels 2 to 3 2 Route Options Available
- 6.1, 8.9 miles
- 700 - 1400 feet elevation gain
Day 6
- Level 1 1 Route Option Available
- 3.5 miles
- 0 - 500 feet elevation gain