Home to many of the highest mountains in Ireland, County Kerry’s Macgillycuddy’s Reeks is a must-visit for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Ireland is known for its stunning landscapes and rolling green countryside, and nowhere is this more apparent than the beautiful Kingdom of Kerry.
From epic mountain ranges to flowing waterfalls, crystalline lakes to vibrant national parks, there are endless outdoor adventures to be discovered here.
Visiting the Kingdom County and want to get out and see what it’s all about for yourself? If so, read on to discover the top five best hikes and walks in the Macgillycuddy’s Reeks.
5. Muckross Lake Loop, Killarney National Park – the perfect way to discover the Killarney Lakes
A moderate 15 km (9.3 miles) walk along paved lanes and worn paths, the Muckross Lake Loop is one of the best hikes and walks in the Macgillycuddy’s Reeks, suitable for all ages and abilities.
The perfect way to discover the scenic Lakes of Killarney, you can either choose to embark on the full loop or take on a short section and enjoy a relaxing stroll around this incredibly beautiful area.
Starting at Muckross House, you will follow a waymarked route that leads you to the historic Muckross Abbey. Other stunning sights along the way include the beautiful Muckross Lake and breathtaking Lough Leane.
You will also make your way through the beautiful Reenadinna Wood, where you might be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of some wildlife, such as red squirrels and red deer.
4. The Macgillycuddy’s Reeks Traverse – for those who want a challenge
Fancy a challenge? If so, the Macgillycuddy’s Reeks Traverse might be the perfect trek for you.
A strenuous 26 km (16.1 miles) hike along the high ridge of the Macgillycuddy’s Reeks mountain range, you will be treated to some of the most majestic views in all of Ireland along the way.
Taking in an impressive eight of Ireland’s ten highest mountains, this is a tough walk that should only be attempted by those with a good level of fitness and mountaineering experience.
Starting near the Gap of Dunloe, you’ll climb Drishana before heading north to Croc na dTarbh and Croc na Bhriac. From there, you’ll make your way along the ridge to cross Cruach Mhor, Big Gun, Maolan Bui, Cnoc na Chuillin, and Cnoc na Toinne.
After this, you will make your way up Carrauntoohil, Ireland’s highest mountain, before following the ridge along to Caher and south to Curraghmore.
3. Torc Mountain Loop, Killarney National Park – for taking in some of the best views in Kerry
One of the most popular treks in the area, it’s undeniable that the Torc Mountain Loop in Killarney National Park is one of the best hikes and walks in the Macgillycuddy’s Reeks.
With the option for a long and short route, this is a great spot for all ages and abilities. Following a boardwalk most of the way, this is a relatively easy ascent with incredibly rewarding views at the top.
From the summit on a clear day, you can enjoy views that stretch as far as the Dingle Peninsula in the west and the Lakes of Killarney in the foreground.
2. The Gap of Dunloe – formed during Ireland’s last ice age
One of the most famous attractions in Ireland, the Gap of Dunloe is a unique natural site formed during Ireland’s last ice age.
It came to be when a glacier in the Black Valley broke through the Head of the Gap to carve out the famous U-shaped valley that exists today.
An incredibly scenic spot, there is a public road that winds its way right through the heart of the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks. With plenty of stunning scenery to encounter, including lakes, mountains, and waterfalls, it’s easy to see why this spot proves so popular.
A 22 km (13.6 miles) out-and-back walk, this trail is not for the uninitiated. However, the stunning mountain scenery that abounds along the way makes it more than worth it.
1. Carrauntoohil – tackle the highest mountain in Ireland
Topping our list of best hikes and walks in the Macgillycuddy’s Reeks is, of course, Ireland’s highest mountain, Carrauntoohil. A bucket list-must, this epic peak comes in at a respectable 1,038 m (3,407 ft) tall.
With various routes to choose from, including the Caher Loop, the Devil’s Ladder Route, and Brother O’Shea’s Gully Route, you can decide which one works best for you, depending on your time and ability.
Offering epic views out over Kerry’s lakes and the surrounding mountains, you will be blown away by what stretches out before your very eyes from the summit of this epic trail. Undoubtedly one you won’t want to miss!
