Whether you’re looking for a short walk along a beach, a relaxed ramble through the valleys or a chilled out coastal walk – your choices are endless during your stay in Kerry. While the weather may not be always on our side – a wise woman once told me ‘There is no such thing as bad weather just bad clothing’. Here’s our current list of amazing walks that take less than 2 hours within easy reach of Cromane.
CROMANE
First, you can park at Cromane Beach Carpark and take a stroll along Cromane Peninsula – either on the roadway or along the beach passing ‘The Slip’ where fishermen once launched their fishing boats and brought in their haul. Follow the road all the way to what is know as “The Point” where fishermen can be seen going about their business in an area famed for its Mussels and Oysters. Along your walk you will see so much birdlife as well as protected salt marshes. This walk loops back to the Carpark. View the Route Map HERE
For more Cromane Walks click HERE
GLENBEIGH TO ROSSBEIGH OFF ROAD WALK, GLENBEIGH
Glenbeigh, just 10 minutes from Cromane on the Wild Atlantic Way in The Reeks District has so many great walks, it’s really a tough choice which one to do first. This is a fantastic walk if you have a little time to spare, it’s not too strenuous so can be done with children too.
To start off, walk from Glenbeigh Village along the R564 Rossbeigh Road to the Picnic Area at Faha Wood – pick up a coffee at Upcycle Mobile Cafe en route . At the Picnic area follow the path leading upwards into Faha Wood. Instead of turning left for the Fairy Forest, continue straight on and over the stile. Follow the path and enjoy the amazing countryside around you and the spectacular views as you look down on Rossbeigh Spit, one of Kerry’s most glorious beaches. To the foreground admire Dingle Harbour or look behind you and take in the magical vistas of Cromane Harbour and Dooks.
There are a few steep and rocky inclines on the way so sturdy footwear is advised. Once you reach the end of the path onto the main road, take the sign post to Glenbeigh – take a seat in one of the picnic benches and enjoy a bite to eat or enjoy a stroll along our majestic Rossbeigh Beach. You can return via the same route or along the public road. – please be advised that dogs are not allowed on this walk due to the numbers of sheep on the mountain – they do tend to cross your path from time to time.
LICKEEN WOOD LOOP WALK, GLENCAR
Lickeen Loop Walk only takes about an hour – it’s ideal for all fitness levels and kids will really enjoy seeing all the wildlife.
You can park at the landmark of Blackstones Bridge, start out on the green forest road and take the path in, along the Kerry Way. The walk is clearly marked with arrow way marks in different areas.
At the highest point, the views are breathtaking. Take in the majestic McGillycuddy Reeks and fabulous view up the Caragh River and Caragh Lake. Follow the trail back via the Wood. This walk is very popular with the locals and we can see why! Well worth the trip while in the heart of The Reeks District
MUCKROSS ABBEY LOOP, KILLARNEY
The Muckross Abbey Loop is a short but beautiful walk around Muckross Abbey and Killarney National Park and only 30 to 40 minutes from Cromane. The pathway is paved and easy to explore on foot. There is parking on site and this is where our family usually starts the walk from.
As you emerge from the trees the Killarney Lakes are beautifully framed against the backdrop of the McGillycuddy Reeks. We usually take the lakeshore trail all the way to Muckross House & Traditional Farms – as much as we try to persuade the kids we don’t have time to visit, we always stop off there so add this into your time if you’re bringing the smallies.
There are signs to direct you towards the Abbey – follow the road and explore the medieval ruins. The ruins are well-preserved – in the middle of the courtyard grows an ancient yew tree, said to be as old as the Abbey itself – its mesmerizing and perfect for a photo op! The vaulted ceiling and arches are amazing. Personally, Muckross Abbey should be on your do list with lakeshore trails, stunning views and medieval ruins, it truly is a great day out for all ages!
BALLYSEEDY WOOD WALK, TRALEE
‘If you go down to the woods today …..’ The Ballyseedy Woods Loop Walk is a lovely family friendly marked trail, just 40 minutes from Cromane and only 4 km from Tralee town. The walk is very popular with locals and the people of Kerry but as it’s a bit off the beaten track, someone not familiar to the area might miss this walking gem!
On route through the woods, there are alot of directional signs to various routes so there’s no fear of wandering off . In some parts of the woods, there are roots poking up out of the soil so watch you step and some steep inclines are here and there too. Keep an eye out for names of the trees in Irish on stone, they can be easily missed.
Throughout the walk expect to see the Slieve Mish Mountains, the ruins of John Blennerville’s house, carved wooden seats where you can rest, as well as a huge variety of plants and animals. In some areas, you will find information boards too which I really enjoy! The Ballyseedy Wood Walk really is fabulous walk, a great amenity in Tralee and super way to spend a few hours. Check out Active Me for more detailed route and map.
So that’s our current list of favourite walks under 2 hrs in Kerry. Needless to say, we’ll be adding to this on our own travels in Kerry. We hope it helps you while on your holiday here whether it’s your first time to The Kingdom or not. Don’t forget, if you get a little peckish or fancy a pint of the black stuff after all that walking – we’ve got you covered there too!
If you’d like lunch or dinner reservation at Jacks’ after all your hard work click HERE
