The best walks and hikes around Lough Currane
4.5
(452)
1,870
hikers
45
hikes
Hiking around Lough Currane, situated on the Iveragh Peninsula in County Kerry, Ireland, presents a varied landscape for outdoor activities. The area is characterized by rugged hills, verdant terrain, and the expansive glacial Lough Currane. Many trails also provide views of the Atlantic Ocean and the distant MacGillycuddy's Reeks mountain range.
Best hiking trails around Lough Currane
- The most popular hiking route is Árthach Dána – Lough Currane loop from Raheen, a difficult 12.9 miles (20.7 km) trail that takes 5 hours 39 minutes to complete, offering views of the lake and surrounding hills.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Árthach Dána – Waterville Seafront Promenade loop from Waterville, an easy 0.9 miles (1.4 km) path. This short loop provides a gentle stroll along the seafront.
- Local hikers also love the Waterville, Lough Currane & Caherdaniel loop, a difficult 24.9 miles (40.1 km) trail leading through varied terrain including coastal sections and inland routes, often completed in about 11 hours 56 minutes.
- Hiking around Lough Currane is defined by rugged hills, a glacial lake, and coastal views. The network offers options for different ability levels, from short easy walks to challenging mountain ascents.
- The routes in Lough Currane are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 400 reviews. More than 1700 hikers have used komoot to explore Lough Currane's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
4.1
(8)
22
hikers
20.9km
05:43
230m
230m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
6
hikers
1.43km
00:22
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5
hikers
40.1km
11:56
1,080m
1,080m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.8
(5)
23
hikers
12.3km
03:31
280m
280m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.1
(8)
22
hikers
21.1km
05:46
230m
230m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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Popular around Lough Currane
Tips from the Community
St. Michael and All Angels is an atmospheric 19th-century church that commands a prominent view over Ballinskelligs Bay in Waterville. This Neo-Gothic structure, built from local sandstone and limestone, is known for its unique interior where no two carved capitals are the same.
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The Waterville Seafront Promenade is the walking path parallel to the main road (N70). It is a flat, paved coastal path along Ballinskelligs Bay, where the Atlantic Ocean literally laps against the village. The promenade offers an open view of the bay, the waves, and the long line of the coast.
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Waterville is a seafront village with amazing coastal views. The Kerry Way long distance trail goes through here so it's a useful place to stop for accommodation, refreshments or supplies. Charlie Chaplin used to love this place and regularly spent holidays here, hence the statue.
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Grand views of Waterville, Lough Currane and Ballinskelligs Bay from the narrow, ridgeline summit of Knag. The Kerry Way long distance trail runs along here before descending to Waterville, the next supply stop.
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This statue in Waterville, Ireland, is a monument to the transatlantic telegraph cable that was laid here in the 19th century. Waterville played an important role in early communications between Europe and America.
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This statue in Waterville, Ireland, honors Charlie Chaplin, the iconic filmmaker and comedian. Chaplin and his family frequently visited Waterville on vacation, and the town hosts the annual Charlie Chaplin Comedy Film Festival in honor of his legacy.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Lough Currane?
There are over 45 hiking trails around Lough Currane, catering to various skill levels. This includes 21 easy routes, 13 moderate trails, and 11 difficult options for more experienced hikers.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while hiking near Lough Currane?
Hikers around Lough Currane will encounter a diverse landscape featuring rugged hills, lush green valleys, and the expansive glacial lake itself. Many trails also offer breathtaking coastal views of the Atlantic Ocean and Ballinskelligs Bay, with the majestic MacGillycuddy's Reeks visible in the distance to the north.
Are there any family-friendly or easy walks suitable for beginners?
Yes, Lough Currane offers several easy walks perfect for families or beginners. One popular option is the Árthach Dána – Waterville Seafront Promenade loop from Waterville, a gentle 1.4 km stroll along the seafront. The region has 21 easy routes in total.
What are some challenging hikes for experienced trekkers in the area?
For experienced trekkers, Lough Currane provides several challenging routes. The Waterville, Lough Currane & Caherdaniel loop is a difficult 40.1 km trail that includes varied terrain and coastal sections. Another demanding option is the Árthach Dána – Lough Currane loop from Raheen, which is 20.7 km long and offers extensive views.
Are there any circular hiking routes around Lough Currane?
Yes, many of the trails around Lough Currane are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Knag Summit – Coomduff loop from Waterville, a moderate 12.3 km route, and the more challenging Lough Currane – Árthach Dána loop from Waterville.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Lough Currane?
The trails in Lough Currane are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from over 400 reviews. Hikers often praise the stunning views of the lake and coastline, as well as the variety of terrain available.
Are there any historical or cultural points of interest along the hiking trails?
Yes, the region around Lough Currane is rich in history. Hikers can discover sites such as Church Island, which holds the remains of a 7th-century monastic settlement, and Inis Uasal (Noble Island), both with ancient ties to St. Finan. Archaeological sites like the Beenbane Fort and beehive huts can also be found.
Is Lough Currane a good place for birdwatching or wildlife spotting?
Absolutely. The diverse ecosystem around Lough Currane provides excellent opportunities for wildlife observation. Keep an eye out for various bird species, and you might even spot local wildlife such as red deer and otters.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Lough Currane?
While Lough Currane offers hiking opportunities year-round, the spring and autumn months often provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer is also popular, but can be busier. Always be prepared for changeable weather conditions, typical of County Kerry.
Are there any long-distance walking routes that pass through or near Lough Currane?
Yes, the renowned Kerry Way, one of Ireland's longest and most scenic walking routes, passes near Lough Currane. Hikers can choose to explore shorter sections of this trail to experience its spectacular views of the lake and surrounding countryside.
What other outdoor activities are available in the Lough Currane area besides hiking?
Beyond hiking, the Lough Currane area is excellent for other outdoor pursuits. You can enjoy boating, kayaking, and cycling, with sections of the Ring of Kerry Cycle Route nearby. The region is also part of the Kerry International Dark-Sky Reserve, making it a fantastic spot for stargazing.
Most popular routes around Lough Currane
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