Guided wilderness escape: mountains, lakes and coastline of the Ring of Kerry
In summary
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Sports
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Duration5 days
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LevelIntermediate
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DestinationEurope / Ireland
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AgeFrom 18 - 75 years
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CO₂-Emissions59.42 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
English
French
German
In a few words
Immerse yourself in the wild beauty of Kerry , far from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. This 4-night hiking trip offers you the chance to settle into the charming village of Sneem , a unique hub-and-spoke accommodation that saves you from having to change lodgings every day.
Led by a certified mountain guide , you'll hike at a comfortable and relaxed pace , perfect for rejuvenation. Over three days of moderate walking (4 to 5 hours per day), you'll explore secluded trails, hidden glacial lakes, and spectacular coastlines. Your itinerary will take you into the majestic Dunkerron Mountains to discover Coomanassig Waterfall and Eagles Lake, before following the legendary Kerry Way to the white sands of Derrynane Beach .
This trip is experienced in a small group of no more than 8 people , guaranteeing an intimate and friendly atmosphere among nature enthusiasts. Each evening, you'll enjoy the comfort of a charming lodge in a private room. A perfect blend of nature hikes , local stories, and a complete escape .
The highlights
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Hike in the majestic Dunkerron Mountains and the hidden Coomanassig waterfall
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Small groups (max 8 people) led by a qualified mountain guide
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Based in Sneem, located just 60 minutes from Kerry Airport and train station
Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
The expert's opinion
This often involves more rugged and uneven trails or off-trail terrain (such as grassy or peaty ground). The ascents and descents remain manageable: they require a slight effort but are within your comfort zone. A reasonable level of fitness is required for hill walking. You must be comfortable on uneven terrain.
In figures
Trekking
- Average duration/day: 4h30
- Average distance/day: 12 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 349 m
- Average daily descent: 348 m
Swimming
- Average duration/day: 0h30
Management
English
French
German
Fergal Harrington is a fully qualified and insured mountain guide, and holds a Remote Emergency First Aid certification. He puts his expertise at your service to guarantee you a memorable and rejuvenating stay.
He loves the camaraderie and exchanges that arise from shared hikes. His greatest satisfaction is seeing his clients marvel at the wild beauty and serenity of this still unspoiled and uncrowded hiking destination.
Trish is our host; she welcomes our guests upon arrival. Athletic, active, and well-traveled, Trish speaks Arabic and has a basic knowledge of French. She will do everything she can to ensure you have a wonderful holiday.
Program
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Arrival
- Accommodation B&B
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
You'll settle into your accommodation for the duration of your stay. If you arrive in Killarney by train or plane, a transfer can be arranged upon prior request. At the end of the day, you'll meet up with your small group of hikers for a welcome drink. This is the perfect opportunity to get to know each other and participate in a full briefing about your active holiday .
Day 1 -
At the heart of a geological wonder: Eagles Lake and the Coomanassig waterfall
- Transportation Car - 00h20 - 12km
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 4h30
- Distance 12 km
- Positive elevation gain 400 m
- Negative elevation 398 m
- Accommodation B&B
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Embark on an accessible hike in the heart of the majestic Dunkerron Mountains at Sneem , a region steeped in 300 million years of history. You'll traverse the lower slopes of Knocknagantee and Coomnacronia , reaching a comfortable altitude of 400 meters. This moderate elevation gain allows you to fully appreciate the spectacular scenery of the Kerry Geopark , whatever the weather.
The trail begins near the historic standing stone of Dromtine , gateway to a wilderness sculpted by tectonic movements and ancient glaciers. You'll discover a pristine world of sheer rock faces and deep glacial cirques as you reach the crystal-clear waters of Eagles Lake , nestled beneath the 100-meter-high Coomanassig waterfall. A relaxing lunch break is planned on the shores of Lake Coomnacronia . Keep your eyes peeled for the surrounding ridges: this area is home to the majestic white-tailed eagle , a bird of prey that regularly soars over these mountain routes.
Day 2 -
Coastal Magic: The Derrynane Loop
- Transportation Car - 00h50 - 40km
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 4h30
- Distance 12 km
- Positive elevation gain 300 m
- Negative elevation 299 m
- Activity Swimming
- Duration of the activity 0h15
- Accommodation B&B
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Today you'll be hiking a hilly route along the Kerry Way , with a gentle summit at 150m altitude. The trail winds through isolated hills before suddenly opening up to the Atlantic Ocean and Derrynane Beach . You'll embark on a 12km loop , descending the stone steps of the historic Mass Path .
This varied route takes you into the heart of the woods, across sand dunes and along a coastal path. After the exertion, a break in a local pub is possible before returning to Álaind Lodges to relax and have dinner in the village of Sneem .
Day 3 -
The essence of the Geopark
- Transportation Car - 00h10 - 8km
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 4h30
- Distance 12 km
- Positive elevation gain 345 m
- Negative elevation 345 m
- Accommodation B&B
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Immerse yourself in Ireland 's history on a 12km hike combining the most beautiful lowland trails of the Ring of Kerry . With an accessible elevation gain of 345m, this route can be easily enjoyed in any season.
You'll progress at your own pace through a mosaic of landscapes, alternating between wild moors , peaceful forest tracks, and rolling meadows. This route leads you to the heart of the Kerry Geopark , a site of international geological significance marked by red sandstone mountains, glacial remnants, and ancient archaeological sites. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife, including the rare Kerry mountain hare . The hike also highlights the deep connections between the Irish language, local history, and the topography. At the end of the route, you'll cross the historic Lomanagh Bridge before returning to the comfort of your accommodation in Sneem to relax, enjoy a drink, and have dinner in the village.
Day 4 -
Departure day
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Departure after breakfast.
Day 5
Note
The precise itinerary for each day of guided hiking may be modified to adapt to the weather and the needs of the group.
After each day of walking, you will have time to relax and refresh before heading to the village of Sneem for your 3-course dinner.
Accommodation
Álaind (pronounced "All-ind") means "beautiful place" in Irish. Our bed and breakfast is located on the edge of the beautiful village of Sneem, on the Ring of Kerry. Álaind Lodge is a peaceful countryside retreat offering luxurious en suite rooms, a delicious breakfast, and relaxing garden spaces—a true home away from home. During your stay at Álaind Lodge, you can immerse yourself in nature, as the building is nestled in a quiet lane at the foot of the Dunkerron Mountains of Sneem.
Enjoying a picturesque setting between Kenmare Bay and the Dunkerron Mountains, this region is internationally renowned for its unique geology and is full of world-class hiking routes that are still relatively unknown.
Access
We will happily help with your onward journey planning. You can also extend your stay with us by booking additional nights.
Go to the starting point
Regular arrivals from Dublin and Cork
Sneem is a 1-hour drive from Kerry Airport, passing through the beautiful national park.
Sneem is a 45-minute drive from Killarney, passing through the beautiful national park.
Price details
The price includes
- Bed & Breakfast accommodation with private bathroom
- Welcome briefing on the evening of arrival
- Guided hikes on marked trails
- Breakfast
- Packed lunch (takeaway lunch)
- Three-course dinner in an Irish gastropub (three nights)
- Snacks and refreshments after the hike
- Drying facilities
The price does not include
- Flights
- Any accommodation before or after the stay
- Single room supplement — €45 / night
Options
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate what formalities are required for entry and stay in the destination country. You can also consult this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
For connecting flights operated by different airlines, also check the formalities for countries you transit through.
It is your responsibility to ensure that you are compliant, in particular regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to still be valid 6 months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations and health recommendations. And don't forget to take into account customs restrictions and other obligations of the destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date — remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment provided on site
Hiking poles
Equipment to bring
Waterproof hiking boots
Clothing to bring
The minimum equipment required includes: waterproof hiking boots, waterproof jacket and over-trousers, and a backpack.
As the grass can be high and wet, gaiters and walking sticks are highly recommended (we can provide the sticks).
Also pack: a hat, gloves, extra (thin) warm layers, thick hiking socks, a water bottle, and a lunchbox. A personal first-aid kit, sunscreen, and insect repellent are also recommended.
The Fergal team
Founded in 2019 by Fergal, a former executive turned mountain guide, this company specializes in authentic hikes around Sneem, on the Ring of Kerry. Fergal offers an immersive experience off the beaten track, emphasizing serenity and direct contact with wild nature.
The establishment distinguishes itself through its personalized stays, ranging from leisurely coastal walks to challenging ascents of Dunkerron's peaks. Hikers can stay at Álaind Lodges, a B&B nestled between the sea and the mountains, while benefiting from certified, multilingual professional guides, including English, German, and French. Between glacial geology and coastal landscapes, each outing is an invitation to safely disconnect from everyday life.
