recommended route
Waterville to Caherdaniel
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Waterville to Caherdaniel section of the Kerry WayPhoto: Heleen Bosch, Macs Adventure
A gentle walk along the coast with views of the Beara peninsula and across to Kenmare (this is the coastal route).
Today's route follows a coastal path and you will enjoy constant views of the sea and inshore islets, as well as the Beara Peninsula hills across the Kenmare River estuary. Why not take a short detour (2.5km) to visit Derrynane House National Historic Park (visitors’ centre has a seasonal opening), the ancestral home of Daniel O’Connell, Ireland’s ‘Great Liberator. Descend through the native hazel forest and see the Caherdaniel Stone Fort before arriving in the town itself.
If your legs are feeling a bit heavier today you can shorten today's walk by going via the inland route that heads north of the Derrynane House Grounds. This shortens the route to 12.5km.
Author’s recommendation
The views and white sands of Derrynane Beach are more than worth the small coastal detour!
Track types
Safety information
This walk covers some distance over roadside paths and minor roads, as well as a short section crossing the busy N70. Please take extra, and remember that it's always best to walk on the right to face any oncoming traffic and make yourself as visible as possible.
The main part of the route from Waterville to Caherdaniel crosses mixed terrain with undulations across minor spurs and small valleys. Some ground may be boggy after rainfall. During low visibility keep close to the way-marked track.
There is a risk of ticks in the grass. Use insect repellent and check your body on arrival in Caherdaniel.
Tips and hints
Food & Drink:
There are limited lunch spots on today's route, so it is advised to be prepared before setting off. Along the way, you will pass The Scariff Inn (inland route and coastal detour), and Derrynane House (only if you are walking the coastal detour).
As Caherdaniel is a very small village with limited food choices, please check your accommodation details to contact your host to arrange for an evening meal to be prepared for you. Please give them plenty of notice to do this. Caherdaniel has a local pub called the Blind Piper Pub which is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Start
Destination
Turn-by-turn directions
These maps and routes are designed to be used in conjunction with our traditional documentation. We have recently embarked on a conversion initiative to bring the two elements together, and this itinerary will be covered in due course.
In the meantime, using the two elements alongside each other should go a long way to ensure you have a safe, enjoyable and problem free day.
Note
Coordinates
Equipment
Along with your usual gear for a day in the hills, you should consider packing gaiters, poles, and an extra layer along with a solid good-quality pair of waterproof boots of course.
Questions and answers
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