Caha Pass: A Scenic Drive Through the Mountains

Drive through the rugged Caha Mountains on the N71, and experience breathtaking panoramic views of Ireland's stunning natural beauty.

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The Caha Pass, a mountain road on the N71 between Glengarriff and Kenmare, offers stunning panoramic views of the Irish landscape. The pass is known for its rugged beauty, featuring tunnels carved into the rock and vistas of rolling hills and verdant valleys.

A brief summary to Caha Pass

N71, Rossnagrena, Co. Cork, IE
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Local tips

Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds, especially during the summer months.
Be prepared for changing weather conditions; bring layers and rain gear.
Allow ample time to stop at the various viewpoints and soak in the scenery.
Watch out for sheep on the road, especially on narrower stretches.

Getting There

Car

The Caha Pass is located on the N71 between Kenmare and Glengarriff. From Kenmare, take the N71 towards Glengarriff. The pass is well-marked with signs. There are small lay-bys along the pass road where you can stop and enjoy the views. Parking is available near the viewpoints. Be aware that the road can be narrow and winding in places.
Public Transport

You can take a Bus Éireann service from either Kenmare or Glengarriff towards Castletownbere. Ask the driver to drop you off at the nearest stop to Caha Pass, which is approximately 2 kilometers from the pass itself. From the bus stop, you will need to walk along the N71 road, following the signs for Caha Pass. Check bus schedules in advance, as services may be limited. A single fare should cost approximately €3-€5.
Taxi

Taxis can be hired from Kenmare or Glengarriff. A one-way trip to Caha Pass will cost approximately €30-€50. Arrange for the taxi to return at a specified time if you plan to spend some time at the pass.

Discover more about Caha Pass

The Caha Pass, nestled in the Caha Mountains on the Beara Peninsula, is a must-see for anyone traveling between County Cork and County Kerry. This scenic route, part of the N71, offers breathtaking views of the Irish countryside, with its dramatic cliffs, rolling hills, and verdant valleys stretching as far as the eye can see. The road itself is an attraction, winding through the mountains and featuring tunnels that were blasted out of the rock in the mid-19th century. These tunnels, too low for most tour buses, add a unique element to the drive. The pass reaches an elevation of 320 meters (1,049 feet), providing panoramic vistas. Built in 1842, the road was originally known as "The New Line". Today, it offers a tranquil escape from the busier tourist spots, perfect for a leisurely drive, a picnic, or simply soaking in the sights and sounds of the Irish countryside. The landscape is ever-changing, with colors transforming with the light, sun, rain, and wind. Be prepared for the weather to shift quickly, and for the occasional sheep wandering onto the road.