Templenoe to Kenmare

Distance: 8.5km | Ascent: 260m | Time: 3hrs 30mins

The Reenagoppul Stone Circle in Kenmare

Start: Templenoe (V 8525 6990)

Finish: Kenmare (V 9095 7095)

OS Map: No. 78, 85

Grade: Moderate

Within ½km of leaving the new church at Templenoe (opposite the post office), the Kerry Way leaves map 85 and goes onto map 78. The trail then turns off the 'Ring of Kerry' and starts an ascent of 120m over the next 2km to cross a spur of Lacka Hill. The estuary of the Kenmare River becomes increasingly narrow as the Beara Peninsula draws in close. Over the next 1km, the track crosses the Reen River and drops 60m to meet a minor road.

A second ascent of 150m sees the Kerry Way climb Gortamullin Hill (205m) over the next 1½km. Fantastic Views of the Caha Mountains on the Beara Peninsula are to the south and the gap between Knockanaguish and Peakeen Mountains immediately to the north-east mark the area where the Kerry Way will pass in the following section. Over the following 2½km, the trail drops back down close to sea-level and once again meets the 'Ring of Kerry' as it enters Kenmare.

The final 1km of trail approaches the town along a secluded gravel path which escapes the traffic before emerging in the central market square after crossing the Finnihy River. Those with still enough energy, may be interested in seeing an ancient 4,000 year-old Reenagoppul Stone Circle ½km out from the town centre. After reaching the market square there is a turn to the right. The road, which should be signposted, passes along a line of beautiful terraced cottages.

Connecting Stages...

Prev   : Blackwater Bridge to Templenoe
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