Top 12 Hikes in Munster

At the moment we are in level 5 but that doesn’t mean we cant plan for brighter days ahead. I think Summer 2021 is going to be lots of outdoor fun and adventures. This blog post will hopefully give you some inspiration for hikes to do in Munster in Ireland when the time comes. Brighter days lie ahead. Dont worry, we will be covering the other 3 Provinces in Ireland over the next few weeks for you too. Just in time for summer.

Have you any favourite walks or hikes you love in Munster? Let us know below and we will add them to this list! Let’s share the gems this summer with each other. We always love finding new gems to add to the list. Always remember mountain areas are very changeable places so be sure to check the forecast before you go so you can pick an appropriate route. If you are unfamiliar with an area, be sure to get an experienced guide to go with you.

1) TORC MOUNTAIN WALK

Torc Mountain Walk in Killarney is one of our favourite walks at the weekend. Although, this walk is about 7.5km and takes about 2.5 hours, it is a manageable walk with kids and makes for the perfect family outing at the weekend.

2) GAP OF DUNLOW

The Gap of Dunloe in Kerry is famous for the beauty that surrounds you as you walk. It is is a narrow glacial mountain pass which lies between the Macgillycuddy’s Reeks and Purple Mountain. As you walk along, you walk through five picturesque lakes. It is one of the most beautiful walks in Ireland and one you will remember forever.

3) CARRAUNTOOHIL MOUNTAIN

Carrauntoohil Mountain in Kerry is definitely one to add to your list. It is around 13km and takes about 6 hours.  Carrauntoohil is the highest mountain in Ireland at 1,038.6 metres and is the central peak of the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, Ireland’s highest mountain range.

4) CAHERCONREE MOUNTAIN AND FORT WALK

Caherconree Mountain and Fort Walk, Kerry. This walking route is a one-way walking route on the Slieve Mish Mountains in Kerry. It is just 10 minutes from Tralee, Co. Kerry and is known as one of the best walking routes along the Wild Atlantic Way. It is approximately 7.5km and takes around 3.5 hours. You should note that this hike is strenuous but the views of Tralee Bay from the top make it worth the climb.

5) GLEN OF AHERLOW

The Glen of Aherlow is a valley located between Slievenamuck and the Galtee Mountains in County Tipperary. The Glen of Aherlow is the dream for any walker as it offers beautiful walks to meet all walking levels and abilities. Enjoy your surroundings of mountains, forests, rivers, lakes and stunning landscapes.

6) MOUNT BRANDON

This hike is located in the heart of the Dingle Peninsula. It is approximately 9km and takes around 5 hours to complete. This mountain is a sacred mountain that gets its name from St. Brendan the Navigator. From the top you will see panoramic Atlantic views over the Southwest of Ireland.

7) KNOCKMEALDOWN MOUNTAINS AND THE GALTEES

Now these are hikes to add to your bucket list. Explore the beauty, panoramic views and nature all around you. The Knockmealdown Mountains is a mountain range located on the border of Tipperary and Waterford. The Galtees are Ireland’s highest inland mountain range.  It is such a spectacular experience and one not to be missed.

8) MANGERTON MOUNTAIN

Mangerton Mountain is a popular one and is a 10km moderate hike. It would take 4 to 5 hour to the summit of Mangerton which is 839. Throughout the walk you can take in the breathtaking views of the Devil’s Punchbowl, MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, Horses Glen, Killarney National Park and on a good day south west to Kenmare Bay. 

9) COOMASAHARN HORSESHOE WALK

Coomasaharn Horseshoe Walk is located in Glenbeigh, Kerry. A moderate 12km hiking trail which is situated over several mountain peaks around the stunning Coomasaharn Lake near Glenbeigh village. This walk is a pure hidden gem one for the bucket list.

10) COMERAGH MOUTAINS

There are lots to explore in the Comeragh Mountains in Waterford. The most famous walk and one known as the jewel of the Comeragh Mounatins is the Coumshigaun Lake loop walk. This is a 7.5km walking route around the Coumshingaun Corrie Lake and the surrounding mountains.

11) MAHON FALLS

We would also recommend the Mahon Falls hike if you are looking for an easy family walk. It is an easy short family walk and a very popular one all year. It is a linear walk to the foot of the breathtaking Mahon Falls. Water falls from the highest point in the Comeragh Mountains and makes for a spectacular view. The drive up around the Mahon Falls is also spectacular and one to add to your list.

12) THE BALLARD WATERFALL TRAIL

The Ballard Waterfall Trail takes approximately 1 – 2 hours. You get to experience the Ballard Waterfall in Araglin, Cork. You will walk on the roadway, forest track and paths until you reach the beautiful waterfall, while enjoying the country views all around you. A lovely moderate countryside walk to enjoy with all the family.

Have you any hikes or walks in Munster to add to the list? We would love to hear all about them in the comments below. Give us some new hikes to explore when it’s safe to do so again.