The two-day summer walking festival in Killarney is now a well-established fixture in the calendars of walking enthusiasts nationwide. Offering a range of walks to suit all abilities and levels of fitness, the June festival offers unrivalled walks in a stunning setting, all within easy reach of Killarney’s Holiday Village.
You can book your place on the festival website. If you are thinking of taking part this year, here are some of our picks:
Muckross Estate
This guided walk is a great introduction to Killarney. It starts on the shores of Lough Leane and follows in the footsteps of the celebrated English agriculturalist Arthur Young, who visited the Muckross estate in 1776. You will follow the Old Boathouse Trail to Dundag Point and continue to the magnificent Torc Waterfall. From there, it’s on to Muckross Gardens for a comprehensive tour, complete with an interesting overview of its history, and development from the Victorian times to the present day. The walk continues to Muckross Abbey, before returning to the Muckross Estate via the Monks’ Walk.
Grade
Moderate
Distance
Six hours
Date
10th June
Cost
€20, including transport (€40 for a family of four)
Purple Mountain
You get a great return for your efforts with the Purple Mountain walk. Starting at the Gap of Dunloe, the steep climb rewards you with breath-taking views over Killarney Valley from the summit of Purple Mountain. Then it’s on to the summit of Tomies (735m), with more stunning views before you descend to Kate Kearney’s Cottage and a well-deserved coffee.
Grade
Moderate/Strenuous
Distance
4/5 hours
Date
11th June
Cost
€25, including transport
Coomloughra Horseshoe Walk
The loop walk around Coomloughra Horseshoe is one of the most spectacular walks in Ireland. Based in the famous McGillycuddys Reeks range of mountains, it takes in three of the country’s tallest peaks—Beenkeragh (1,010m), Carrauntoohil (1,039m) and Caher (1,001m)—and is unrivalled in terms of scenery. This is one walk that will make your holiday.
Grade
This is a strenuous walk, suitable only for those with a high level of fitness
Distance
15km
Date
10th and 11th June
Cost
€55 (including transport)
