10+ Hidden Gems & Secret Spots in Ireland to Visit

Last Updated on 10th February 2022 by Sophie Nadeau

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Ireland is often nicknamed the Emerald Isle on account of its rich green rolling hills and it’s the perfect European destination for those on the lookout for a road trip filled with beautiful vistas, fishing villages nestled in time, and some of the best hospitality in Europe. And while the Republic of Ireland is a popular destination, there remain plenty of off the beaten path spots worth discovering. Here’s your guide to the best of hidden gems and secret spots in Ireland.

Ireland is an island nation which is located on the most westernmost edge of Europe. Its capital city is Dublin, a bustling settlement with plenty of pubs, bars, a famous nightlife, and enough museums to satisfy even the most knowledge-hungry of visitors.

Many people claim that Dublin feels more like a big town than a capital city, and anyone who has visited can attest to this. For more guides to Ireland, be sure to check out our guides to the best day trips from Dublin and our weekend guide to Dublin.

Marsh’s Library

By Sophie of Solo Sophie

Of all the iconic and off the beaten path hidden gems of Dublin, one of my absolute favourites is that of Marsh’s Library. After all, it’s not every day that you can visit a place where Bram Stoker once studied, James Joyce once researched, and where Jonathan Swift was known to frequent from time to time.

Marsh’s Library is pretty old and was founded in the first half of the 18th-century (1707 to be precise). The library was constructed at the behest of Narcissus Marsh, the Church of Ireland Archbishop of Dublin at the time.

In order to grow the library, Marsh donated many books from his own personal collection. Today, Narcissus Marsh is interred in the graveyard of nearby St Patrick’s Cathedral. The first librarian was a certain Dr Elie Bouhereau, who was a Huguenot refugee hailing from La Rochelle in France. 

If you want to see the beautiful bookcases and discover the enchanting ambiance of the library for yourself, then it’s possible to visit for a small fee. The best time to visit the library is mid-week and earlier in the day if possible so as to be able to enjoy the serene space with as few a crowds as possible. For more Ireland inspiration, be sure to check out our top Dublin travel tips.

Inis Mor, Aran Islands

By Pam of The Directionally Challenged Traveler

Ireland has some of the most beautiful landscapes in Europe. A hidden gem in Ireland that puts natural beauty at the forefront is Inis Mor of the Aran Islands.

The Aran Islands are located off the coast of County Galway in the west of Ireland. There are three islands – Inis Mor (big island), Inis Meain (middle island), and Inis Oirr (East island). 

A day trip to the Aran Islands is easy while visiting Galway. Most people take an hour-long ferry ride to the islands. Upon arrival to the islands, there’s an immediate sense of isolation wrapped in a heartwarming welcome. There are only about 850 people who live on Inis Mor. 

Dun Aonghasa is one of the most famous ruins on Inis Mor, with human activity dating back to 1100 BC. Originally built as a fort but was also the political, economic, and ritual center for the people living there. The fort was abandoned in shortly after 1000 AD and ended in ruins. Now it’s a National Monument of Ireland. In 490 AD, the Killeany monastery was founded by St. Enda. This is one of the first monasteries built in all of Ireland. 

The best way to enjoy the islands is to rent a bike for easy transportation. It allows you to travel at your own pace and get up close to the ruins. Inis Mor has five ancient ruin sites to explore.  You can easily bike around the island in about 5-6 hours. If biking is not for you, you can also take horse-drawn carriages or private minibusses around the island.

No matter how you get around Inis Mor, be sure to keep an eye on the landscape. The gorgeous cliffs, rolling hills, and peaceful scenery never get boring. Inis Mor is unlike anywhere else in Ireland and definitely worth at least a day trip. 

Tyrrellspass Castle

By Paulina of UK Everyday

There are about 10,000 medieval castles in Europe with some of the most beautiful in the world like Conwy Castle. During your visit in Ireland, don’t miss out the opportunity to see a unique medieval fortress located less than 2 hours drive from Dublin – Tyrrellspass Castle. 

It is a perfect spot to organise impressive private events such as weddings, but it also hosts superior medieval banquets. Tyrrellspass Castle became a stylish restaurant in the early 1990s. Medieval architecture of the building provides a unique dining experience.

If you are on a road trip, driving from Dublin to Galway there is no better place to stop for a meal than Tyrrellspass Castle. Delicious food in this amazing historic building is a top thing to do in Ireland. What’s interesting, it is the last castle of the Tyrrells that remained on the island.

The 20 metres tall stone structure is a great example of medieval architecture where you can relax and enjoy fantastic food. How many medieval castles serve food inside the building? If you are looking for a once in a lifetime experience, you should definitely visit Tyrrellspass Castle.

You can have a great meal in the main restaurant, go to a coffee shop or relax in the lounge room. Medieval banquet is a top attraction in Tyrrellspass Castle. Irish music and tasty food during the night make it an unforgettable experience. This remarkable castle is worth visiting at any time of the day. Whether you want to have breakfast, lunch or a great dinner in medieval style.

Inisheer, Aran Islands

By Christina of Explore Now or Never

One of the best places to see on an Ireland road trip is the Arran Islands. Any of the three islands make a great day trip from Galway or Doolin (or spend the night with extra time). Otherwise, plan a visit between Dingle to the south and the famous Cliffs of Mohr to the north. 

In fact, there may be no better way to fully appreciate the spectacle of the Cliffs of Mohr… looking back at them from the water on the ferry as you head out to sea. While Inishmore is the largest and most visited island by travelers, Inisheer—the smallest and most easterly of the three—is the true hidden gem.

Geologically, it’s actually an extension of The Burren, with crisscrossing limestone pavements. This makes it one of the best examples of this particular landscape anywhere in the world.

The best way to appreciate the unique delight of Inisheer is on bicycle. Rent a bike at the dock and then spend your day meandering the empty, narrow roads. Cycle through a patchwork of impossibly green farmlands bordered by sturdy rock walls. Meet grazing ponies and tranquil cows. It’s quiet here with only the sound of buzzing bees and songbirds for company.

You’ll also spy a shipwrecked freighter just off the coast here. The Plessey landed here in 1960 and was thrown above the high tide mark on the island by strong waves. Fortunately, local islanders came to the rescue…an event depicted today at the National Maritime Museum in Dún Laoghaire.

While you’re on the island, take a steep 20 minute walk up to the crumbling ruins of O’Brien’s castle for a birds-eye panoramic view of the island. Then, finish off your day in town at the café with a well-earned beer at the pub. Inisheer actually brews its own beer here. As the locals say, “Inish beer for Inisheer!”

Dingle Peninsula

By Mary of Be Right Back by Mary

The beautiful Dingle Peninsula, located on the West coast of Ireland is a popular destination among the Irish and tourists. However, few know that one of the best things to do on the Dingle Peninsula is visiting one of Ireland’s most beautiful hidden gems, Cappagh beach.

Beaches in Ireland are often made of compact yellow sand or pebbles and accompanied by a rough sea, waves and seaweeds. However, it is not the case of Cappagh beach.

Cappagh beach, located in Brandon Bay, will have you feel like you have just traveled from Ireland to the Reunion Island. Overlooked by large and tall lush green mountains in the background, Cappagh beach is made of thin and soft golden sand.

The strand leads to clear and calm turquoise waters which are perfect for a dip on a sunny summer day. Depending on the light, those colours create a beautiful contrast with the dark green mountains in the background and will have you feel like you are on a tropical island! 

Cappagh beach is a mid-size beach with plenty of space to walk or lay down to take in the sun in the summer. In contrary to most of the famous beaches in Ireland, Cappagh beach remains very quiet and unvisited.

Actually, when coming to Cappagh Beach, inhabitant of adjacent Cloghane village might be surprised to see visitors driving all the way here and visiting what could be considered their backyard!

Cappagh beach is accessible by car only and the carpark is quite small. It is recommended to check that the tide is neither completely low or high when visiting in order to make the most of your visit!

Hellfire Club

By Nathan of All About Glamping

Just outside of Dublin on Montpelier Hill is a ruined hunting lodge known as a meeting place for the Hell Fire Club (in Irish: Club Thine Ifreann). This site is considered by many locals as one of the most haunted sites in Ireland.

It was built by William Connolly on a burial site, which of course adds to the allure. The Hell Fire Club was a group of rich and influential men from around the UK. This hunting lodge was used as a gathering place for members to talk, gamble and divulge in other ungentlemanly things.

Stories of sacrifices, debauchery, and a visit from the devil himself supposedly took place here. To get to this dark and eerie haunted house, you must trek to the top of Mount Pelier Hill.

The hike up has some amazing views with Dublin to the North and the Wicklow Mountains to the South. There is a great local company that will guide you to the top called Hilltop Treks.

The local guide may also provide some great local folklore during your guided adventure. Be careful if you decide to explore the inside of the hunting lodge as it can be wet and slippery. Exploring it does give chills down your spine and goosebumps on your arms if that is what you are looking for. 

Beltany Stone Circle Donegal

By Faith of XYUandBEYOND.

The Beltany stone circle is a Neolithic site which can be found in Donegal on the top of a small green hill called Tops Hill. It is around a kilometre from Raphoe and well marked.

There is a small parking lot at the base of Tops Hill and as you walk up to the top through the sheep you will be rewarded with an absolutely stunning panoramic view overlooking Croaghan Hill that features prominently in Irish legends and folk tales.

Stone circles are said to be observatories to track the sun and moon in the sky. They were probably places of significant ceremonies and possible gathering places for the community to come together to celebrate significant events.

There are 64 stones left in the circle and some have engravings on them. There is a large 2 metre high stone to the south which archaeologists believe may have had a ritual function. In the centre of the circle are the remains of a cairn which may have been a burial cairn or a Neolithic passage tomb.

The truth is that not much is known about stone circles in Ireland although there are around 187 in the Republic of Ireland dating back tens of thousands of years  Irish stone circles do tend to be much smaller than stone circles found in Britain such as Stonehenge.

Croaghan Hill which can be seen from Beltany is where – in Irish legends, the warrior Itha was laid to rest in a passage tomb on the summit after he was killed in the Battle of Magh Itha, the first war against the Tuatha De Danaan. So it is possible that Beltany held a major significance in Irish history. 

Museum of Country Life

By Ada of beyond the Yellow Brick Road

It’s not all rainbows, leprechauns, and red-haired lasses in Ireland. Life on this small island nation was often rough and the Museum of Country Life pays homage to this harsh reality.

Located in rural County Mayo, the area of Ireland hit hardest by the potato famine of the 1840s, the museum sits on the grounds of Turlough Park, about four miles east of Castlebar.

It’s the only museum associated with the National Museum of Ireland institution located outside of Dublin. An impressive Victorian Gothic “big house” built in 1865 greets visitors when they arrive.

Part of the museum’s unique appeal is that it gives visitors a real glimpse of the oppressive socio/economic structure that allowed the English to keep the Irish subservient in the centuries after Cromwell invaded.

The Fitzgeralds, an English upper-class family, lived in this “big house” (which is actually a pretty moderately sized mansion) while Irish peasants worked the estate’s lands as subtenants.

The museum grounds include a manicured garden and artificial lake. Adjacent pastures brimming with sheep, lambs, and cows add to the remote museum’s rural charm.   

The Museum of Country Life exhibits are housed in a modern museum building next to the lake. As a whole, the museum focuses on removing the romance often associated with Irish peasant life by exposing a gritty existence that prompted at least 8 million Irish to migrate in the 19^th century.

You’ll find exhibits explaining traditional Irish crafts like the making of St. Brigid crosses and furniture, a permanent exhibit on life in rural Ireland post famine from 1850 – 1950, as well as ever-changing temporary exhibits. 

Admission to the Museum of Country Life is free, but you must book a ticket in advance. The museum limits single groups to 6 people.

Howth Cliff Walk

By Krystianna of Volumes & Voyages

One of the best hidden gems of Ireland is the Howth Cliff Walk, located in none other than Howth, Ireland. It’s only a short day trip to Howth from Dublin, but for the most part, only locals will visit this spot when they’re looking to get away from the city!

This is one of the most unique spots in the country because of its beauty. Sure, there are many different coastal hikes and walks in the country, but this one is so breathtaking, isn’t super long (it’s very kid-friendly), and is easy to get to from the most popular city in Ireland.

Plus, the town of Howth itself is filled with things to do, like visiting the local beach or shopping and supporting locals at the Howth Market. What makes the Howth Cliff Walk so excellent is that there are actually multiple routes within it.

So, for instance, there’s one route that’s super difficult while another is very easy. It’s your choice which version of the hike you’d like to do, and each one offers different views.

Here’s a tip for doing the cliff walk: consider packing yourself a lunch and carry it in a backpack. About halfway through the walk, there’s a huge open space where you can have a picnic launch while looking out at the beauty of the area!

Howth Harbour dates back to the early 1800s when it was built. It served as Dublin’s main harbour for ships going between England and Ireland for quite some time. Over the years, it turned into the beautiful town that it is today.

The Wonderful Barn in County Kildare

By Jennifer of Sidewalk Safari

County Kildare, Dublin’s neighbor to the west, is full of hidden gems. The most unusual things to do in Kildare become immediately apparent with a quick perusal of Google Maps.

The Wonderful Barn is an off-the-beaten track destination in Kildare near Leixslip that simply captures the imagination. The Wonderful Barn is often mistaken to be a folly. Follies are grand buildings or “ruins” which are prevalent on various historic estates in Ireland (as well as other locations in Europe).

They are built primarily for decorative purposes and to add a bit of whimsy or drama to a property; adding interest for visitors as they explore the grounds. The Wonderful Barn was built in the 18th century at the edge of the Castletown House Estate.

There are a variety of theories about the purpose for which the Wonderful Barn was built. The most popular (although least imaginative) theory is that the Wonderful Barn was built to store grain, so it did actually have a practical purpose and thus is not a folly.

The Wonderful Barn is surrounded by two smaller flanking structures. Apparently, these little towers were thought to be  home to pigeons who snapped up any spilled grain or alternatively were used as dovecotes.

Doves were considered a delicacy in the 18th century and would be eaten when other game birds were unavailable or out of season. The Wonderful Barn is quite tall, so it is conceivable that it may have been used for sport shooting. 

There is no parking lot at the Wonderful Barn but there is street parking within walking distance (less than 1 km away). Make a pitstop at the Wonderful Barn on the way out of Dublin for a longer road trip. The Wonderful Barn is an ideal destination for photography fans.

Slieve League Cliffs

By Nicole of Go Far Grow Close

Slieve League Cliffs are found in Donegal, Ireland, around 2 hours from Londonerry or Sligo. They are some of the highest sea cliffs in Europe. In fact, they are three times the height of the Cliffs of Moher, one of the most popular tourist attractions in Ireland.

The Cliffs of Moher are around 4 ½ hours away. Slieve League is breathtakingly beautiful with endless vistas over the crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean. Notwithstanding their height, Slieve League offers an easy walk from the lower parking lot along a winding paved road to the viewing platforms.

At all times, you get stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and rolling green hills.Once you reach the viewing platforms, you can choose to stay and enjoy the outlook, or  hike up to the peak.

Even if you are not a hiker, consider climbing up at least part of the way so that you can see the majestic views from above. If you are considering hiking up the Cliffs, you should come prepared.

You need to wear proper closed toe sneakers with some traction. There are some steps and handrails, but they are only a basic framework. You will need to rely on sturdy footwear for your own safety.

If you would like to see the full wonder of Slieve League from another perspective, boat tours are offered. However, those must be booked and boarded elsewhere. There is no access to the Atlantic Ocean from the Cliffs themselves. 

Slieve League Cliffs are only just being discovered and for now, they are still relatively untouched, easy to visit and enjoy without crowds, making them one of the best secret spots in Ireland to add to your bucket list.

Sugar Loaf Mountain

By Sinead of Map Made Memproes

Sugar Loaf Mountain in Co. Wicklow is not a ‘hidden’ gem as the cone shaped mountain dominates the surrounding landscape. It can even be seen approaching Dublin on the U.K – Ireland ferry.

However, climbing the 500-metre-tall Sugar Loaf (1640 feet) is often overlooked in favour of its neighbouring and higher Co. Wicklow peaks. But climbing Sugar Loaf Mountain provides a fantastic 360-degree view of Co.

Wicklow that should not be missed. There are two ways to access the summit. Firstly, drive 1 hour south from Dublin to the small, free car park at the base of Sugar Loaf and take the rocky, rugged path to the summit.

The strenuous walk will take around 1 hour. Alternatively, drive to Kilmacanogue and take the longer 2 – 3 hour trail starting near the golf club. Both these routes eventually amalgamate into one path to reach the summit.

The summit ‘path’ is a very steep, rock and boulder strewn climb which, in a few places, requires hand over hand climbing. Appropriate footwear, time and care is a must, especially with children.

Standing on the summit of Sugar Loaf will reward the effort made to reach it. The views are contrasting. In one direction, the far-reaching views include the seaside town of Bray, Bray Head, Greystones, Little Sugar Loaf Mountain, Dublin city centre and the Irish sea.

In the opposite direction are the green rolling landscapes and dramatic peaks of the Wicklow Mountains. There is no charge to climb Sugar Loaf Mountain and there are no facilities in the car parks or on the routes so bring sufficient food and water. 

Gap of Dunloe

By Katy of A Rambling Unicorn

For spectacular scenery near Killarney, skip the Ring of Kerry and head to the Gap of Dunloe instead. Situated between the MacGillycuddy Reeks and the Purple Mountains, this stunning mountain pass was formed by glaciers during Ireland’s last ice age.

Today, the Gap of Dunloe features a narrow country road which winds past a series of five sparkling lakes. The countryside is also filled with charming bungalows and sheep-filled pastures. Stretching for 11 km (7 miles), the route starts at Kate Kearney’s Cottage and ends at Lord Brandon’s Cottage in Killarney National Park.

While every point along the road is gorgeous, one of the best vistas is from the Wishing Bridge. According to legend, wishes made while standing on the bridge will surely come true. You can find the bridge near Kate Kearney’s Cottage between Coosaun Lough and Black Lake. The Head of the Gap is another must-see location and features jaw-dropping views of Black Valley and Black Lough.

One of the best ways to experience the Gap of Dunloe is on foot. Hiking from one cottage to the other is a great way to get an up-close view of the glacier-carved hills. You can complete the journey with a ferry ride from Lord Brandon’s Cottage to Ross Castle across the Killarney Lakes.

Be aware that vehicle traffic is discouraged through the gap due to the number of pedestrians along the route. If walking isn’t your cup of tea, consider hiring a jaunting car (trap and pony). This is a fun way to experience the scenery while also learning about the area from a local guide. Bicycling is another popular form of transportation along the road as well.  

Benbulbin

By Cazzy of Dream Big, Travel Far

Benbulbin is a unique flat-topped limestone rock formation in County Sligo. It is a protected County Geological Site and also part of the imposing Dartry Mountains. No doubt among one of the lesser-known but most beautiful destinations in the country, it’s a must-do in Ireland, especially for those seeking to experience its hidden gems.

The massive rock stands tall above the village of Drumcliffe village and has a Loop Trail that leads to a majestic waterfall. From up here, the view of Sligo Bag is truly breathtaking, and one can even spot Donegal on the horizon when the clouds are clear.

It is believed that Benbulbin was formed back in the ice ages when the entirety of Ireland was still covered in ice sheets. As the glaciers moved over the centuries, the rock was eventually shaped into its current flat formation.

This charming hiking destination is an easy walk from the south side, and the summit boasts an unparalleled panorama of County Sligo and the Atlantic Ocean. The area is also home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including many Arctic-alpine plants, the beautiful fringed sandwort, and wild hares.

Start your Benbulbin voyage by parking up at Luke’s Bridge, walking along glacial tracks and rushing streams. After a day exploring the hiking trail and admiring the view from the flat-topped peak, head over to the nearby Drumcliffe Cemetery and visit the popular poet W. B. Yeats’ gravesite.

Finally, unwind at Drumcliffe Tea House, a charming and cosy place in a rural setting to enjoy a nice cup of tea and homemade goodness.

Skellig Michael

By Corinne Vail of Reflections Enroute

Skellig Michael, a wind-swept, conical island about 12 miles off of the west coast of Ireland, is an amazing destination for the adventurer. Isolated, rocky, steep steps, and subjected to sea winds and squalls, it’s not the most hospitable place, but that’s just what the monks of the 6th century were looking for when they adopted the island to build a monastery.

Such an incredible feat, finding a way to get to the islands, building a church and bee-hive shaped monk huts to live in, there was only time to practice their holistic Christianity and provide for themselves. Because of this dedication and the hardiness of the monks, UNESCO has inscribed the island on their world heritage list. 

Nowadays, it’s still difficult to get to, since authorities only allow up to 180 people to land on the island hoping to minimize human interference and destruction of the national environment. One of the things that makes Skellig Michael so great is the many sea birds that nest here, including the Atlantic Puffin. 

Only for a few months each year, these colorful little marine birds nest on the island, usually between April and August. In June and July they are everywhere and it’s easy to spend your entire time on the island just watching their behaviors. When booking, try to book before August, so you don’t miss them. 

Don’t leave Ireland without visiting Skellig Michael to see the incredible monastery atop this impossible island and the marine life that nests there. Just remember to book early.

Caherdaniel

By Izzy and Phil of the Gap Decaders

Caherdaniel sits in the lush Valley of Glenmore, on the Iveragh peninsula, which itself sits on the famous Ring of Kerry. This County Kerry village is best known for its imposing stone fort, which dates from 600AD, the Carribean like Derrynane Beach, and Derrynane House and National Park, home to the great “liberator’ Daniel O’Connell.

For a small village in southern Ireland, Caherdaniel really packs a punch. The charming village remains largely undiscovered and really earns a place in any list of Ireland’s hidden gems, making it a perfect stopping off point on a motorhome tour of Ireland, as you wind down the Wild Atlantic Way.

There’s lots of great hiking on the peninsula and the village is on the Kerry Way, one of Ireland’s longest signposted walking trails. Head up to the ancient stone fort for a bird’s eye view of the beach and Atlantic ocean beyond.

You can continue hiking up to the summit of Cahernageeha Mountain at 552m, for truly breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and Skellig coast.
Derrynane Beach is a beach lovers paradise!

Sweeping around the small bay and divided by a narrow land bridge to Abbey Island (also worth exploring), the beach is fine sand with clear turquoise waters, backed by craggy rocks, perfect for swimming and snorkelling in summer. You can also hire windsurfs, canoes, stand up paddles and sailing boats from the beach based Derrynane Sea Sports.

Derrynane House is the ancestral home of Daniel O’Connell, one of Ireland’s most famous historical figures, after which Dublin’s main street is named. Born in 1775, he was a lawyer who fought for Catholic emancipation after the Act of Union in 1801 abolished the Irish Parliament, before becoming the first 19th century Irish nationalist leader to hold a seat in Westminster.

The house dates from the 17th century and has been preserved as a museum and memorial. The surrounding grounds and parklands are a tranquil place to wander, where frost-sensitive trees and plants flourish, due to the sheltered location and mild winters.

Bunratty Folk Park, Bunratty Castle

By Cath of Travel Around Ireland

Bunratty Castle in County Clare has a great addition to it that makes it a unique destination to visit in Ireland. Alongside the 15^th-century Tower House is Bunratty Folk Park. This Folk Park is a unique place to visit as it is a recreation of an Irish village from the 19^th-century.

Set on 26 acres and lying beside the castle, this ‘village’ contains over 30 buildings that give visitors a glimpse into village life in Ireland in the 19^th-century. Step back in time and peep inside buildings which include rural farmhouses, a school, tannery, grocery and hardware shop, and lots more.

Each is decorated as it would have appeared at the time, with furnishings from the era. Some of the rural houses really do give you a feel for how little people had over 200 years ago.

The lack of stairs to reach the bedroom areas is a real eye-opener. And at times, you can also enjoy the sounds and smells of the house with peat fires often on the go. It is a complete sensory experience.

Bunratty Castle and Folk Park is located a short distance from Limerick City and also features farm animals, tearooms, a fairy trail, and a Viking playground, ideal for those visiting the Emerald Isle with younger kids.

There is also a walled garden, best enjoyed in late spring and early summer, and of course, no visit would be complete without venturing inside the castle itself. Top tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds of tour buses and to allow plenty of time to explore the entire site.

Bentee Loop Walk

By Lotte of Gezond Weekmenu 

For those who love the outdoors, Ireland is one of the best destinations in Europe. The landscapes are beautiful, diverse and rugged. And when the sun is out, the views are simply breathtaking and there is no place more beautiful than the Emerald Isle.

A great spot to admire some of these breathtaking views is by climbing Bentee, a conical hill located just south of the pretty town Cahersiveen. This 9-kilometer hike (loop) does require a medium fitness level as you’ll be climbing to the summit of the 376m tall Bentee.

The hike takes around 3-4 hours, depending on how fast you are and how much time you take to admire the views. The hike starts in Cahersiveen and is well signposted.

That being said, it’s always smart to download an offline map (such as maps.me) to make sure you’re on the right track. Note that cell reception can be sketchy so it’s best to download the map before you set off on your hike.

Regarding equipment, the trail can be quite muddy so wear sturdy (waterproof) hiking boots. Bring a raincoat as well, hiking poles are optional.

Keep in mind this trail passed through private lands that have been made accessibly by the landowners through the rights to roam legislation. Be respectful, don’t litter and don’t feed the sheep.

The best part about this hike is definitely the 360 views from the top. You’ll be able to see the town of Cahersiveen as well as Valentia Island and the rolling landscapes Ireland is famous for.

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