Beara way, County Kerry Travel Guide

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Discover the wild beauty and ancient history of Ireland's Beara Peninsula on this stunning coastal walking trail.

The Beara Way is a 206-kilometer circular hiking trail on the Beara Peninsula in southwestern Ireland, offering stunning coastal and mountain scenery, historical sites, and charming villages. It's a challenging but rewarding trek through a remote and unspoiled region.

A brief summary to Beara way

Unnamed Road, Kilcatherine, Co. Cork, IE
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Beara way.

Check the weather forecast before you set out, as conditions on the Beara Peninsula can change rapidly.
Wear appropriate footwear and clothing for hiking, as the terrain can be rough and the weather unpredictable.
Bring plenty of water and snacks, especially if you're planning a long hike.
Be aware that dogs are not permitted on the Beara Way.
Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak season, as options can be limited in some villages.

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Explore Beara way on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Beara way, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From Kilcatherine Church, the Beara Way continues along minor roads and tracks, offering scenic views of the coastline. The trail is well-marked with yellow arrows on a black background. Be prepared for some sections of open moorland that can be rough and remote.
Public Transport

To reach the Beara Way near Kilcatherine, take a Bus Éireann bus from Bantry to Castletownbere. From Castletownbere, a taxi can be taken to Kilcatherine, approximately 5 km away. Taxi fares are typically around €10-€15. Check local bus schedules for up-to-date times as they can be limited.
Driving

From Glengarriff, take the N71 southwest towards Kenmare. After approximately 11 km, turn right onto the R572 towards Castletownbere. Continue on the R572 for about 18 km. Just before reaching Gortgarriff, a small sign indicates Kilcatherine Church on the left. Turn left onto a narrow road leading to the church. Parking is available nearby. Be aware that roads on the Beara Peninsula are rural and can be narrow.

Discover more about Beara way

The Beara Way is a long-distance, circular trail that winds its way around the rugged Beara Peninsula in the southwest of Ireland. Officially a National Waymarked Trail, the route traverses both County Cork and County Kerry, offering a diverse landscape of mountains, coastline, and historical landmarks.The trail is approximately 206 kilometers (128 miles) long and typically takes 9 days to complete, though variations exist. It begins and ends in Glengarriff, a charming village nestled at the head of Glengarriff Harbour. The route passes through a number of other villages and towns, including Castletownbere, Allihies, Eyeries and Kenmare.The Beara Way is known for its rich history, with numerous archaeological sites, ancient stone circles, and early Christian churches dotting the landscape. It also has connections to the 17th-century march of O'Sullivan Beare, a significant event in Irish history. The trail's terrain varies from quiet tarmac roads and bog roads to cliff and woodland paths, and open moorland, requiring a good level of fitness.Along the way, hikers can explore attractions such as Dursey Island (accessible by cable car), Bere Island (reached by ferry), and the Allihies Copper Mines Museum. The trail also forms part of the Beara-Breifne Way, a longer walking and cycling route that follows the line of O'Sullivan Beare's historic march.