Kenmare has been described as The Walking Mecca of Ireland. For hill walkers and mountaineers the Caha and Derrynasagart Mountains lie to the South and East while to the North lie the Dunkerrons and the majestic McGillycuddy’s Reeks with lofty Carrantoohil towering over all. For the rambler, two of Ireland’s premier long distance walking routes The Kerry Way and Beara Way converge in the town. 

1 Around the Town Loop Walk
Starting Point: The Square
Distance: 1km loop walk
Terrain: Tarmac   Grade: After dinner stroll

Route: Starting at the square, head up past the church, sticking to the footpath on the left hand side of the road. Cross the road using the crossing at SuperValu and continue right along the Patrick Connor-Scarteen Road past Lidl and Aldi. Another right turn at the end of this road brings you into the top of town past the golf club. For a short loop turn right again down Main Street and back into the Square. Extend the walk by continuing down Shelbourne Street then turning right down Henry Street to reach the Square.

2 Pier Walk
Starting Point: The Square
Distance: 2km there and back
Terrain: Tarmac   Level: Easy – gentle stroll

Route: Starting at the square, head up Henry Street, keeping to the footpath on the right hand side of the street. Continue on past St Patrick’s Church and down the hill through Bell Heights. The road to the pier is the next turning on the right. Stroll along the side of the bay, and sit on one of the many benches to enjoy the view. There are herons and sea birds aplenty and lucky visitors might catch a glimpse of a seal or sea otter. Several boat cruises and trips leave from the end of the pier. Turn and come back the same way.

3 Reenagross Park Loop Walk
Starting Point: The Square
Distance: 3km there, around and back
Terrain: Mixed   Grade: Easy – great for kids and dogs

With paths and trails leading through the woods and along the banks of Kenmare River this wooded park is one of Kenmare’s best kept secrets. 

Route: Starting at the square, head up Henry Street, keeping to the footpath on the right hand side of the street. Continue on past St Patrick’s Church and down the hill through Bell Heights to the Pier Road. The entrance to Reenagross is sign posted through gates on the left just before the Pier Road. Look out for the bat sanctuary and fabulous tree tunnels. The bench at the point is a fabulous bird-watching spot.

4 Tubrid Walk
Starting Point: Creamery Car Park
Distance: 4km loop
Terrain: Tarmac   Grade: Easy

This  walk will take you along a country lane at the back of the town. As the houses thin out, enjoy views of Kenmare Bay and the Beara Peninsula. 

Route: Park in the Creamery Car Park as marked on the map. Take the first road on the left and continue along the lane for approximately 1.5km. A right turn at the junction brings you back to the main road (N70). Follow this to just after the Kenmare Bay Hotel where a pedestrian lane on the right will bring you back to the Square. At the start of the walk take a small detour to visit the ancient arched Cromwell’s Bridge.

5 Lissyclearig Loop Walk
Starting Point: The Square
Distance: 10km loop
Terrain: Tarmac   Grade: Medium – hilly start

Route: Starting at the square, head up past the church, sticking to the footpath on the left hand side of the road. As you pass SuperValu on your right, go straight ahead at the junction and up the hill. Follow the road for approximately 4km before turning left at Gowlanes Cross. A left turn at Lissyclearig brings you back into town. Note: At Gowlanes Cross you can pick up the Old Kenmare Road. The full walk, which takes about 5 hours, extends 16 km from Kenmare to the Torc Waterfall car park in the Killarney National Park. Walkers should be reasonably fit and equipped with, warm clothing, walking boots and waterproofs. Note transport back to Kenmare will be required.

6 Currabeg Loop Walk
Starting Point: Kenmare Old by Sheen Falls Lodge
Distance: 8km loop
Terrain: Tarmac   Grade: Medium 

This walk starts at Kenmare Old, Kenmare’s ancient cemetery complete with famine plot and holy well. 

Route: Starting at the gate to Sheen Falls Hotel take the road left behind the hotel and cross the bridge over the Sheen River, stopping to admire the falls! After the bridge, turn right and start the uphill climb. A left turn at the crossroads offers panoramic views of Kenmare Bay, before heading downhill. Turn left at the T-junction and follow the banks of Kenmare River back to your starting point. Turn right at the T-junction and a short walk brings you to the ancient Roughty Bridge.