The best walks and hikes around Uragh Wood

Wonderful far-reaching views on a clear day across to Bantry Bay on the way up, or down, the climb. You're exposed to the elements up here, so don't forget your weather-proof gear.

A wonderfully serene spot with views across the Lough Inchaquin, one of a series of lakes that feed into the Kenmare River.

Beautiful stream course

This is a protected Natura 2000 site and a simply gorgeous place to explore on foot. There's woodland to explore, lakes to gaze across, waterfalls to marvel at and the Uragh Stone Circle to admire. It's a particularly beautiful section of the Beara Way long-distance trail.

Nestled in a secluded valley, Gleninchaquin Park offers a landscape that manages to combine peace and wildness. The path takes you past clear mountain lakes and small streams that leave their mark through the greenery. The waterfalls that run through the valley give the place a special dynamic - the largest is just a short walk from the car park and rewards all those who take the time to look at it up close. As you drive along the route, there are always opportunities to dismount and explore the surroundings. Old ruins from the Stone Age bear witness to a time long past that has found its quiet place here. The narrow paths and small hills repeatedly allow views into the distance, where the valley spreads out further and the landscape tells its story. The mixture of mountains, water and places steeped in history makes the park special - not a place you just pass through, but one you experience. A tip: If you are looking for peace and quiet away from the main paths, it is worth exploring one of the smaller paths that do not lead directly past the main waterfall.

On the way to Gleninchaquin Park, the path runs directly along the shore of Lough Inchiquin. The gentle waves of the lake glisten in the sunlight as the view sweeps across to the wooded hills. In the distance, the imposing waterfall rises, adding another fascinating element to the landscape. The route invites you to stop and take in the tranquil atmosphere of the lake. Away from the hustle and bustle, you can feel nature directly here - be it through the light wind blowing over the water or the babbling of a small stream flowing into the lough. The path itself is varied, sometimes a little bumpy, sometimes pleasantly smooth, and leads past small bays and green meadows. The area around Lough Inchiquin is also known for its special wildlife, including the rare Kerry snail and the horseshoe bat, a species of bat that finds shelter here. If you take your time, you might be lucky enough to spot some of these native inhabitants. The protected landscape provides an ideal environment for a variety of plant and animal species, which gives the place a special charm.

The circle sits on a small hill above Loch Inchiquin and offers a view of the surrounding lakes and mountains, which create an impressive backdrop. The approach takes you along a narrow dead-end road that already gives you a hint of adventure. When you walk the last few meters, time seems to move a little slower. The approximately three-meter-high monolith dominates the picture, while the smaller stones are arranged in a circle around it. The scene is particularly impressive when the sky is slightly cloudy, when the dark silhouettes of the stones stand out against the landscape. One look at the stone circle is enough to make you feel transported back in time. It is easy to imagine how this place was once used for rituals or gatherings. The surroundings exude a special calm that invites you to linger before getting back on your bike. And with a little luck, you will only share the moment with a few sheep that are grazing peacefully here.

Beautiful path along the stream