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Five amazing Kerry walking trails that offer a truly unique experience

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Stephen FernaneKerryman

While Kerry is a focal point for mountain and hill walkers, depending on the time of year it can be a far more challenging prospect. But there are still some amazing walks that are easily achievable at any time of year, especially in spring and summer.

These are accessible, manageable, suitable for families, and require nothing but a good raincoat and comfortable shoes.

Below is a sample of some the best walks Kerry has to offer.

Gleenaghty Wood

Described as the ‘Sherwood Forest of Munster’, the Glanageenty walk is one of Kerry’s best kept secrets. This beautiful valley is located halfway between Tralee and Castleisland. There are three routes of varying distances to suit all levels of fitness. The walk is a treasure trove of history with everything from the ruins of a 19th century family cottage, links with the Desmond Rebellion and the Irish civil war massacre at Ballyseedy, as well as 1916 when Robert Monteith evaded capture in a house in the valley.

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Glanteenassig

This is an outdoor enthusiast’s dreamland with over 450 hectares of woodland, mountain, lake, and peatland to explore. Nestled in a sheltered valley among the Slieve Mish mountains, the landscape is imposing and awesome. The beauty of this spot is that it is suitable for all levels of fitness. A steady walk followed by a sit down on the fringe of its lakes make Glanteenassig a truly special place to visit.

Kerry Head

This is one of North Kerry’s best kept secrets. From Ballyheigue village you can set off on an amazing walk around Kerry Head that will live long in the memory. Astounding views of Tralee Bay is the reward on the southern face of the peninsula, while beautiful views to the north of the Shannon estuary and Ballybunion are visible with the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean straight ahead. The walk is around 10 miles, and you can start and finish in the village.

Ballyseedy Wood

Situated a short drive from Tralee, this natural woodland offers a matrix of walkways that are short but are very enjoyable. It is a unique and tranquil retreat which has at least 22 varieties of native trees that have been growing there for centuries. The wood is located on the edge of the stunning Ballyseede Castle estate.

Reenagross Woodland Park

The park is a wooded peninsula set within the beautiful landscape of Kenmare Bay. It comprises of over 3km of walking trails, along with a diverse range of habitats that are home to a wide variety of plants and animals, archaeological features and places of interest.

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