Kerry Way Walking Weekend: Guided 4-Day Glenbeigh Hike on the Wild Atlantic Way

Read the full experience

Kerry Way Walking Weekend begins in Glenbeigh, County Kerry, Ireland. Meet: The Glenbeigh Hotel for 2pm. Pickup: Luas Stop Balally at 09:00am or Maldron Hotel Tallaght at 09:15am. This four-day, three-night escape threads coastal ridgelines, upland summits and sandy strand into a short but full sampling of the Iveragh Peninsula and the Wild Atlantic Way. Walks follow classic sections of the Kerry Way: quiet boreens, forest tracks and open mountain trails that rise to Windy Gap with views over Lough Caragh, Rossbeigh Strand and the Dingle Bay horizon. The opening day offers 7.5km and 12km options so mixed-ability groups can choose a comfortable pace while still feeling rewarded by wide panoramas, stone walls and peat-topped hills. Evenings centre on village life and comfortable BB accommodation at The Glenbeigh Hotel. On day two the itinerary moves west to Waterville for an 18km coastal day toward Cahersiveen. Expect steady climbs to the Coomakista Pass, where the Atlantic and offshore Skelligs and Valentia Island appear on clear days. This stage stitches remote upland grazing into coastal outlooks and passes scattered farmsteads that speak to the landscape’s long agricultural history. Day three climbs above Kells and over Seefin and Drung Hill, offering vistas of the MacGillycuddy's Reeks and a descending approach toward Rossbeigh Strand that feels like a reward after the ascent. The final day is a gentler close: a shoreline stroll on Rossbeigh Strand and time for coffee before the transfer back to Dublin, typically arriving late afternoon. What makes this weekend special is the logistics and balance: guided walks on significant Kerry Way sections, coach transport between trailheads, three nights B&B with one evening meal, and a capped group size (Max 20 people). The itinerary lets walkers experience coastal cliffs, inland lochs and upland ridges in quick succession without the guesswork of planning parking or ferrying cars between trailheads. This offering suits hikers comfortable with 3–6 hours of walking per day, variable Atlantic weather and steady climbs on uneven ground. Bookings require a 10% deposit and the price is €595 per person; hilltoptreks members receive a 10% discount. Bring sturdy walking boots, waterproof layers, a 25L rucksack and a sense for Irish weather and you’ll get to know this part of Kerry as the locals do - by foot, pacing the land between sea and mountain. The package includes three nights BB with breakfast at The Glenbeigh Hotel, evening meal, three guided walks on Kerry Way sections and transport. Group size is limited to Max 20 people to preserve trails and keep pace manageable. The route uses established paths and quiet country lanes, but expect uneven surfaces, some scrambling on descents and the classic changeable weather of Ireland’s southwest coast for walkers.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

moderate.

Duration

4 days (3–6 hours walking per day).

Fitness level

Good aerobic fitness and comfort on steady ascents and descents; able to carry a 8–12 kg daypack.

Frequently asked questions

Where do we meet and are pickups available?

Meet: The Glenbeigh Hotel for 2pm. Pickup: Luas Stop Balally at 09:00am or Maldron Hotel Tallaght at 09:15am.

What is included in the price?

Price includes three nights B&B at The Glenbeigh Hotel, one evening meal, three guided walks on Kerry Way sections and transport between trailheads.

How fit do I need to be?

Participants should be comfortable with 3–6 hours of walking per day, steady climbs and uneven terrain; regular hill-walkers will find it most enjoyable.

Is there a deposit or cancellation policy?

A 10% deposit is required at booking; inquire directly for full cancellation terms and any flexible booking options.

Can beginners join?

Beginners with good basic fitness who are used to walking 10–15km with some ascent can join; guides offer route options to match group ability.

Are dogs or children allowed?

Check with the operator; group logistics, accommodation rules at The Glenbeigh Hotel and protected habitats like dunes may restrict dogs and younger children.

Local insights

Wildlife

grey seals
seabirds (gannets and gulls)

History

The Kerry Way traces routes around the Iveragh Peninsula and links coastal villages and upland passes that have shaped local farming and fishing traditions.

Conservation

Stick to established paths, avoid trampling dunes and peat, and follow Leave No Trace principles to protect fragile coastal and upland habitats.

About Hilltoptreks

Hilltoptreks is a Dublin-based tour operator located in Dublin 2, County Dublin, specialising in guided and self-guided walking tours, day trips and private tours across Ireland. Since establishing operations, Hilltoptreks offers a range of experiences that include iconic day tours from Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher and Galway, heritage trips to Newgrange and the Boyne Valley, scenic drives through Wicklow and Glendalough, and multi-day self-guided routes such as the Beara Way, Wicklow Way, Sheep’s Head Way and the Kerry Way. All itineraries are created to highlight natural landscapes, cultural heritage and easy logistics. Day tours include local pick-ups and visits to historically important sites like Newgrange, Trim Castle and Glendalough monastic site. Self-guided walking holidays feature daily luggage transfers, detailed route notes and access to local accommodation options in family-run guesthouses. Private day tours are fully tailorable for small groups, with flexible timing and tailored stops, including Powerscourt Gardens and film locations. Hilltoptreks works with local guides and service providers in County Dublin and across Ireland to ensure route accuracy and on-the-ground support. Booking information, trip durations and sample itineraries are provided for each trip to help travellers plan. The business lists a wide variety of options: single-day excursions, weekend breaks, seven-day regional tours and longer coastal walking routes. Travelers can choose between guided group departures, private chauffeur-guided days, and self-guided walking packages. Hilltoptreks focuses on clear logistics, local knowledge and authentic Irish landscapes. Customer support and local partner coordination are provided throughout the booking and travel process seamlessly.

Base locationDublin 2, County Dublin

Tours offered23+

Adventure tips

Pack for all weatherThe Atlantic changes fast—layer moisture-wicking base, insulating midlayer and waterproof shell so you can shed or add layers on the go.

Wear sturdy bootsSturdy, well-broken-in hiking boots with good grip matter on wet boreens, muddy tracks and stony descents—ankle support reduces soreness on long days.

Pace and snack regularlyPlan for 3–6 hour walk days: keep a steady pace, eat small snacks every hour and hydrate to maintain energy over climbs and coastal stretches.

Protect the dunes and peatStick to defined paths on Rossbeigh Strand and upland tracks to avoid trampling sensitive dune and peat habitats and reduce erosion.

Recommended gear

Hiking boots: Support and waterproofing for uneven, often wet Kerry paths.
25L rucksack: Holds layers, water, snacks and spare kit for long walk days.
Waterproof jacket and trousers: Essential protection from Atlantic rain and wind across all seasons.
Headtorch: Useful for early starts, late finishes, and as an emergency light source.