Walking
With walking and cycling now recognised as one of the healthiest exercises for people of all ages there is something in Ballinskelligs for people of all ages. . A brisk walk through quiet by-roads and nearby valleys is pure joy. The Countryside is calm and unspoilt and the mountain streams crystal clear. For the more enthusiastic walker take yourself to the mountains and explore the Kerry Way- Irelands premier walking route and enjoy the panoramic views of the splendid lake district of the mountain valleys surrounding Ballinskelligs.The network of safe roads in the vicinity of Ballinskelligs are ideal for the cyclist and walker. Many daytrips can be enjoyed such as a trip by the Glenmore Lakes or further a field along the Cumeragh Valley and Lakes and the scenic Skellig Ring.
Bolus Head
This headland is south west of the village and overlooks St. Finan’s Bay in The Glen and gives a stunning view of the Skellig Rocks. There are many pre-historic and early Christian ruins in the area including those of Kilreilig, an early Christian monastic settlement, found alongside the road to Bolus Head.
Coomanaspig Pass
This is one of the highest mountain passes in Ireland at over 1000 ft high and it provides spectacular views of St. Finan’s Bay in The Glen as well as the Skelligs, Portmagee, Valentia Island, Caherciveen, the Atlantic Ocean and Blasket Islands.
The Glen
To really appreciate the beauty, one needs to walk throughout The Glen. Parking the car at the beach, one can walk south towards Duchalla, north towards Glenaragh or east to Killabuonia. These walks are signposted. Panoramic views can be had from Com an Easboig in the north and from the tower in Bolus in the south.
Ballinskelligs Cross to Ballinskelligs Pier and Boolakeel
Walk from Ballinskelligs Castle Cross (Beach Turnoff) straight down to Ballinskelligs Pier from where you can see the Old Abbey, McCarthy Tower follow the road around and you will come to the secluded Boolakeel Cove – a pretty little beach.
Hiking the Kerry Way
At 215km, the Kerry Way is one of Ireland’s longest signposted walking trail and also one of the most popular. The trail starts and finishes in the busy tourist destination of Killarney. Looping around the Iveragh Peninsula, the Kerry Way goes anti-clockwise, passing through some of the most isolated and dramatic countryside in the country.
Whilst Kerry is renowned for having the highest mountains in Ireland, the Kerry Way avoids the higher peaks and opts for the lower reaches of mountain ridges. The trail is intended to quickly progress through a variety of different landscapes and experiences, giving the walker a wider appreciation for the county.
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