Kerry & Killarney

Kerry contains Ireland’s highest, sharpest and most concentrated mountain terrain. MacGillycuddy’s Reeks rise between the Lakes of Killarney and the Atlantic, forming a broken chain of sandstone summits, narrow ridges and deeply carved glens. Carrauntoohil is the natural focus, but the surrounding mountains provide some of Ireland’s finest—and most demanding—walking.

The Coomloughra Horseshoe links Beenkeragh, Carrauntoohil and Caher in a serious high-level circuit. The complete Reeks Ridge Traverse is longer still, crossing the range through exposed ground where escape routes are limited and accurate navigation matters.

Killarney National Park offers a gentler side to the region. Woodland paths, waterfalls and lakeside trails spread beneath Mangerton and Torc Mountain, while Purple Mountain rises above the Gap of Dunloe. Native oak and yew woodland survive beside the lakes, alongside Ireland’s only remaining wild herd of native red deer.

Beyond Killarney, Kerry’s mountain country continues along the Iveragh, Dingle and Beara peninsulas. Mount Brandon overlooks the Atlantic from an ancient pilgrimage route, Baurtregaum crowns the Slieve Mish range and quieter summits rise above isolated valleys and coastal villages.

Much of the mountain land is privately owned. Continued access depends on walkers respecting farms, parking responsibly and leaving gates exactly as they find them.