With the days stretching out, it’s time to lace up the walking boots and get out in the Kerry countryside. Walking festivals are springing up across the county, and if you stay at Killarney’s Holiday Village, you’re ideally placed to sample any or all of them—depending on how active you feel! Here are some walking events that caught our eye:
Kerry Camino: May Bank Holiday Weekend
You’ve heard about (and possibly even hiked) the Camino de Santiago, but did you know there is a Camino on your doorstep? Guided walks of the Kerry Camino take place this May bank holiday weekend, starting on Friday, April 27th, and you’re less than 30-minutes’ drive from the start when you stay at Killarney’s Holiday Village. The walk starts in Tralee, and Friday’s leg ends in the village of Camp. On Saturday, Camino pilgrims make their way from Camp to Annascaul. The third day ends at St. James’s Church in Dingle. You can book and find more information here.
Killarney Walking Festival: June 9th – 11th 2017
You’ll appreciate the comfort of your Killarney’s Holiday Village holiday home after a day participating in the Killarney Walking Festival. Have a bath, wash your muddy walking gear, and relax on the couch after a hike in one of the most beautiful places in the world.
Immerse yourself in the history and unique scenery and wildlife of County Kerry. The two-day walking programme features walks for all abilities, including gentle strolls and challenging hikes in Ireland’s highest mountains, the McGillycuddy Reeks. All walks start from The Gleneagle Hotel, just minutes from your self-catering accommodation.
Kenmare Walking Festival: June
Kenmare enjoys the best of locations, hugging the intersection of the Ring of Beara and the Ring of Kerry. Surrounded by mountain scenery, with the Atlantic lapping beside it, and a unique semitropical climate, it is the ideal setting for a walking festival.
Taking place in the first week of June, the Kenmare Walking Festival involves two ascents of Carrauntoohil, as well as a variety of hikes and treks for different levels of ability. Pre-booking is required. Guided walks are only half the story: Evening entertainment completes the entertainment—if you still have the energy! Watch out for mountain skills courses run by the Cappanalea O.E.C. during the week before.
What’s your favourite walk in Kerry?
We’d love to hear from you!
