Ireland's Cork & Kerry Women's Hiking & Walking Tour
6 days
5 nights
Activity Levels 2-4
Casual Hotels*
Ireland's Cork & Kerry Women's Hiking & Walking Tour
6 days
5 nights
Activity Levels 2-4
Casual Hotels*
2027: May, Sep
Mythic Landscapes & Village Charm of the Emerald Isle
Follow ancient pilgrim paths. Ramble mountain peninsulas along Ireland’s famed Wild Atlantic Way. End among the lakes, forests and waterfalls of Killarney National Park. From the peaceful valley of Gougane Barra to the lively town of Killarney, be immersed in Ireland’s iconic southwest.
Highlights
- Admire the mountains, lakes, waterfalls, emerald hills and vast gorges in Killarney National Park, a place of legend and natural wonder
- Walk the ancient Saint Finbarr’s Path to the tranquil valley of Gougane Barra, where a tiny island chapel sits on a misty lake surrounded by forested hills
- Walk through ruins that date to the Neolithic period and the potato famine and discover the rural heritage of Ireland’s countryside
- Discover the untouched Beara Peninsula and hike along the famed Beara Way through mountain passes, green valleys and quiet farmland
- Join a private whiskey tasting with a local expert and savor the flavors of Irish country cuisine, from fresh Atlantic seafood to hearty farm-sourced dishes
Start Cork
End Killarney
* Start/End locations may vary. Do not book flights until your trip details are confirmed.
Itinerary
Days 1-2
Follow the ancient Saint Finbarr’s Path, a historic pilgrim route leading to the serene valley of Gougane Barra • Drink in the open hillsides and sweeping West Cork landscapes as you walk along forest tracks • Explore the peaceful trails and glens surrounding Gougane Barra Lake and climb higher into the Shehy Mountains for expansive views of rolling peaks and patchwork farmland • Gather in the hotel’s cozy pub for a whiskey tasting and savor farm-fresh cuisine featuring local fish, meats and herbs from the garden.
Nights 1-2
A peaceful, eclectic lakeside retreat set in a secluded valley, this family-run hotel looks out to the tranquil waters of Gougane Barra and is surrounded by forested hills and lovely walking trails.
Days 3-4
Hike along the famed Beara Way through the Caha Mountains and the lush Bonane Valley • Continue to the colorful town of Kenmare and our historic hotel, which dates to 1790 • Walk sections of the Beara and Rabach Ways through farmland and mountain scenery • Explore Derreen Gardens, a coastal estate filled with rare subtropical plants thriving in the Gulf Stream’s mild climate • Explore the haunting remains of a 200-year-old abandoned village and visit the ancient Cashelkeelty Stone Circle set against dramatic mountain peaks.
Nights 3-4
With excellent access to the colorful boutiques and shops of Kenmare, this lively boutique hotel blends traditional Irish charm with thoughtful rooms.
Days 5-6
Experience the iconic landscapes of Killarney National Park, where lakes, waterfalls and rugged peaks abound in one of Ireland’s most beloved natural areas • Climb Mangerton Mountain to the hidden Devil’s Punchbowl, a glacial lake nestled high beneath the summit • Descend through mossy woodland to Torc Waterfall, where the Owengarriff River cascades nearly 70 feet through lush forest • Discover elegant Muckross House, a 19th-century Victorian estate once visited by Queen Victoria • Enjoy an evening of live music in a pub with rich character • Stroll along peaceful lakeside paths before saying farewell in the heart of charming Killarney.
Night 5
Stay at this elegant boutique hotel in the heart of Killarney, enjoying elegant rooms, warm Irish hospitality and wonderful proximity to the town's lively pubs and boutiques.
What's Included
See moreStraight Talk
We want to make sure you're on the trip that's right for you. Every Backroads trip is unique and this one is no exception.
Carrig Country House and Park Hotel Kenmare are Premiere Hotels. While they offer outstanding service and amenities, please note that they are not equipped with air-conditioning. Despite the region’s generally temperate climate and cool nights, guest rooms can occasionally become warm during peak temperatures.
Dates & Prices
Dates & Prices
Click on dates to see pricing, hotel or itinerary variations and to book your trip. Price is per person, double occupancy, in USD.
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