Adventourus Active Vacations

7 day Independent tour

Although the Sheep’s Head is the smallest of the south-western peninsulas, the walk around it has been described as the finest long distance path in Ireland. The peninsula is formed by a narrow finger of hills stretching nearly 25 miles into the Atlantic, but less than four miles wide. Agriculture along the Way is simple, imbuing the landscape with a sense of timelessness.

Treks begin at either Bantry or Durrus at the neck of the peninsula. You climb up onto the hillside heading west past the stone circle of Ahakista. Follow the south coast to the small town of Kilcrohane, then around the dramatic headland to the Sheep’s Head lighthouse. The craggy coastline of the northern shore is followed east to the Horseshoe Road and up to Finn MacCool’s seat. You conclude by walking the crest of the hills affording spectacular views across the whole peninsula to the mountains of Beara and beyond as you wend your way back to Bantry.

A taxi is available (if requested) to take you from Cork Airport to Bantry. Alternatively you may make your own way to Bantry by public transport.
Accommodation – B&B in Bantry

The first day contains more tarmac walking than we would typically arrange. The lanes, however, are quiet and allow you to adjust to this corner of Ireland. There are splendid views across Bantry Bay and the route meanders through farmland and forests. (19km, 360m ascent)
Accommodation – B&B in Bantry

Day 3: Durrus - Ahakista (13 km)

The route offers fine views over Dunmanus Bay, and you will be passing Gorteanish stone circle on the way to Ahakista. (13 km, 210 m ascent)
Accommodation –B&B in Ahakista

Follow the traditional funeral route from the church to the burial ground at the ruined Kilcrohane church. The route then meanders between the shoreline across fields, along old fisherman’s paths. Then you follow the course of the old road over Ballyroon Mountain, 232 m, where there are ruins of an old signal tower built in 1632. (19 km, 430 m ascent)
Accommodation – B&B in Ahakista

The route provides the finest coastal scenery of the whole walk. You begin by walking out to the lighthouse. A choice of routes then gives an opportunity to follow a cliff path up to the old Gortavallig copper mine. You continue with good views across Bantry Bay along the horseshoe road to Finn MacCool’s seat. (18 km, 370 m ascent)
Accommodation – B&B in Ahakista

The route today follows the main spine of the peninsula reaching the highest point of the walk, Gouladane, 310 m. From the ridge there are excellent views to the Fastnet Rock Lighthouse in the south around the Kerry Mountains to the north. (11 km, 420 m ascent)
Accommodation – B&B in Glanlough

The trail again heads over the spine of the peninsula with fine views over Bantry Bay. The way finally descends as you follow a mixture of tracks and lanes back to Bantry House and town. (15 km, 250 m ascent)
Accommodation – B&B in Bantry

After breakfast your tour comes to an end, and you may begin your journey home. We would also be more than happy to extend your stay in Europe.

PRICE & DETAILS

Price & Schedule

DEPARTURE DATES:

Daily from spring through fall

Country homes provide accommodation in Durrus and Bantry and two garmhouses are the base for four nights on the peninsula. Each of the guest houses is only a short walk from shops and bars. All rooms have shower and WC ensuite.

- All breakfasts

- 3 packed lunches + 3 dinners in Ahakista

- Luggage transfer between your accommodation stops

- Full route details with a map of the tour

MODERATE: Routes of medium difficulty on good trails and paths. Daily walking distance up to 5 hours. Good fitness level is required for some parts as you walk up to 19 km with hills. Good hiking gear is required.