recommended route
Windy Gap Walk
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Views over Caragh LakePhoto: Heleen Bosch, Macs Adventure
This is a beautiful circular walk starting in Glenbeigh with spectacular views of the Reeks and Caragh lake
Walk a section of the Kerry Way on the ‘Windy Gap’ hike, starting at pretty Glenbeigh. The path offers wonderful views over Dingle Bay and the Caragh Valley and Lough, framed by Ireland’s highest peak; 3406ft Carantoohil.
Author’s recommendation
We have plotted the route to avoid walking along a tarmac road without pavement as much as possible, therefore this walk ends at Caragh Bridge instead of Glenbeigh, where we recommend you park your car. If you would like to complete this walk, we recommend booking the transfer from Caragh Bridge in advance. If you really don't mind and promise us to be super careful (although we wouldn't recommend it) you could continue back to Glenbeigh instead of heading towards Caragh Bridge, adding 4km to your walking distance.
Track types
Safety information
A short section of today’s route is on country roads with no pavement. It's important to stay alert and make yourself visible. Where there is a corner be sure to cross to the outside edge to allow drivers the maximum time to see you.
Be careful in wet conditions and bear in mind that the rocks may be slippery.
Tips and hints
A particularly lovely read about this walk was featured in the Irish Independent: https://www.independent.ie/life/travel/ireland/walk-of-the-week-windy-gap-co-kerry-26569883.html
Start
Destination
Turn-by-turn directions
From the Towers Hotel turn up the road past the church following the Kerry Way ‘walking man’ waymark posts. In 0.5 miles take the first lane on the left (KW). Follow KW to the end of the tarmac, then up the track to cross Windy Gap and descend to the 3-way fingerpost. Keep ahead (‘Scenic Route’) to reach the road and follow it down to N70 and walk to Caragh Bridge.
Coordinates
Equipment
Sturdy hiking boots, warm clothes, and a waterproof/wind-break layer are all required. The weather can change quickly so be sure to take all equipment even if the weather looks okay.
This walk is isolated with no opportunities to buy food or water, so be sure to bring enough with you
Questions and answers
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