At over 200km, the Kerry Way is one of Ireland’s longest and most popular walking trail.
Kells – The Kerry Way
The centre of Kells is hard to pick out as it is spread out. The largest point on the triangle is a popular pitstop for motorists driving the Ring of Kerry. There is a craft shop, restaurant, post office and tourist information point.
The second hive of activity is at Cáitín’s Pub, which is around 3km back up the road towards Glenbeigh. The pub is well-known for its traditional Irish music sessions on weekends in the Summer.
The third area of note is down at the shoreline where there is a small blue flag beach. This is where Kells Bay Gardens and the longest rope bridge in Ireland is based. The overall area of Kells is where the Ring of Kerry threads its way through the mountains of Knocknadobar and Been Hill. The road has many pull-in points where drivers get out to admire the views across the sea to the Dingle Peninsula. The final attraction in the area is the engineering feat of Gleensk Viaduct. The train line was in operation until 1960 by the Great Southern and Western Railway Company.
Walking Route
The walking route runs alongside Caitins so this makes Caitins the perfect base while walking the Kerry Way. At over 200km, the Kerry Way is one of Ireland’s longest walking trail and also one of the most popular. The trail loops around the Iveragh Peninsula passing through some of the most isolated and dramatic countryside and scenery in the country.
Whilst Kerry is known for having the highest mountains in Ireland (MacGillycuddy’s Reeks), the Kerry Way avoids these higher peaks. The trail is intended to quickly progress through a variety of different landscapes and experiences. This gives the walker a wider appreciation for the beauty of Kerry.