Conquering the Kingdom
Home to some of Ireland’s most incredible scenery, there are hikes galore in Kerry to wash away the lockdown blues
IT seems we’re all hopi ng for a Christmas miracle as we anxiously await Dr Tony Holohan’s recommendation to Government on November 26 and with a bit of luck we’ll be saying ‘slán’ to level five of Lockdown 2.0.
The excitement of possibly seeing familiar faces again, having a delicious meal served in a restaurant and possibly even crossing a county border could soon be a reality.
Until then though, we’ve got to try and stay motivated, and keep going with what’s become our new norm. Part of this is trying to maintain being active every day.
Of course, this is easier said than done and unsurprisingly, I suspect at this stage many of us may have lost our motivation to keep up with the remit of a daily exercise routine. But we’ve got to put our best foot forward and for this week’s hikes let’s explore the great Kingdom that is Co Kerry.
From the picturesque sights to the multitude of treks available to people of all fitness levels, Kerry is the perfect destination for a scenic walk, provided it’s within your 5km radius.
Of course, if you’re not based in Kerry, then why don’t you add it to your staycation bucket list, and plan to treat yourself and stay in one of the many wonderful hotels in Kerry such as The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens, The Europe and The Killarney Park Hotel, or perhaps a f abulous countryside Airbnb, and incorporate these trails into your stay.
GAP OF DUNLOE
THE ever-popular Gap of Dunloe is possibly one of the most beautiful rugged spots to visit in Ireland for a hiking adventure. The 12km long mountain pass is nestled deep between t he hi ghest mountains in Ireland, the MacGillycuddy Reeks and the Purple Mountain, consisting of a narrow enough trail that is surrounded by beautiful lakes, rivers, the Black Valley and even a wishing bridge.
A moderate enough hike, make sure to wear good hiking shoes and waterproof gear, especially if it’s cloudy day.
In terms of parking, conveniently there’s a large car park located by Kearney’s Cottage.
THE LOMANAGH LOOP
IF YOU’RE looking to take in countryside landscapes and woodlands, then set your sights on the delightful Lomanagh Loop. Beginning and ending in the lovely town of Sneem, the 11km loop explores picturesque country lanes, forest tracks and open hill ground that present wonderful mountain views.
The trail makes its way through fields, so if it’s a wet day be prepared with the right footwear as you make your way through boggy land. It’s probably one of the easier trails on this list and is a great one to set your own pace if you don’t want anything too strenuous. If anything, it’s a peaceful walk that will leave you with a sense of zen.
DUNMORE HEAD LOOP
A SHORT 2km hike with spectacular coastal views, Dunmore Head is located on the south-western tip of the Dingle Peninsula.
Expect raw, wild and wonderful scenery as you trek to the top, taking i n dramatic sea cliffs, century- old landmarks and the greenest of fields. You’ll even get to admire the Blasket islands in the distance.
Known for its marine life, keep an eye out for a dolphin or two as you look out at the Atlantic Ocean. Interestingly a scene from a Star Wards movie, The Last Jedi, was also shot here.
May the force (and the winds!) be with you on this trek.
LOUGH GOOGH LOOP WALK
THE 10km Lough Googh Loop Walk is certainly not one for the faint-hearted, it’s for an experienced hiker and will take around five hours to complete. Located near the Gap of Dunloe, this is a tough hike in the eastern Macgillycuddy Reeks mountain taking in part of Killarney National Park.
Starting and ending near Killarney, the first part of the hike will see you passing the Lough Googh and includes a number of wonderful waterfalls along the way. Be well equipped with the correct footwear as you’ll be exposed to narrow ridges but it’s worth it for the beautiful mountain views.
GLANTEENASSIG WOODS
IF YOU’RE looking for natural beauty with a hint of seclusion, then Glanteenassig Forest Park is perfect. Somewhat off the beaten track, it’s located around 4.5km off the R560 in a valley of the Slieve Mish mountains.
It has plenty of waterfalls, streams, lakes, woodlands and mountains, and offers three wellmarked loops to walkers with three different car parks, depending on the route you want to take. Each route ranges from 0.5km to 2km and is a great trail to feel with one at nature in the remoteness of the mountains.