Easy hikes and walks around Glenbeg Lough
4.6
(191)
791
hikers
26
hikes
Hiking around Glenbeg Lough offers a variety of easy hiking trails set within a fjord-like landscape on the Beara Peninsula. The region features open mountainsides, long grass, and broken ground, with cliffs plunging into the lough. Elevated points provide views of the rugged confines of Glenbeg, Kenmare Bay, and the uplands of the Iveragh Peninsula. The lough itself is an oligotrophic lake, part of the Glanmore Bog Special Area of Conservation.
Best easy hiking trails around Glenbeg Lough
- The most popular easy hiking route is Ardgroom – St. Finian's Church loop from Ardgroom, a 4.0 miles (6.5 km) trail that takes about 1 hour 47 minutes to complete. This route features gentle elevation changes and accessible paths.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Ardgroom & Pulleen loop, an easy 2.2 miles (3.6 km) path. It is known for its scenic coastal views and mostly paved surfaces, suitable for leisurely walks.
- Local hikers also love the Cashelkeelty Stone Circle loop, a 1.4 miles (2.2 km) trail leading through varied terrain with a stone circle landmark, often completed in about 42 minutes.
- Hiking around Glenbeg Lough is defined by coastal paths, open mountainsides, and views of the lough and surrounding peninsulas. The network offers options for different ability levels, with a focus on easy hiking trails.
- The routes in Glenbeg Lough are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 170 reviews. More than 770 hikers have used komoot to explore Glenbeg Lough's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 15, 2026
2
hikers
6.47km
01:47
110m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(21)
88
hikers
3.57km
00:59
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(6)
34
hikers
2.21km
00:42
100m
90m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(16)
52
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
20
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Ardgroom is a small, quiet village on the east side of the Beara Peninsula, recognizable by its brightly coloured cottages and its open location above the inlet of Kenmare Bay. The village has a shop, a post office, a petrol station and the pub "The Village Inn". The village forms a natural passage between the coast and the hilly interior, with views of the gentle ridges of the Slieve Miskish Mountains. In the vicinity are several prehistoric sites, including the well-known Ardgroom Stone Circle, which gives the area a distinct historical layer.
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In the small church of Eyeries, you will find a striking series of modern stained-glass windows, designed by the Irish artist George Walsh. The church appears simple from the outside, but inside, bright colours and expressive figures fill the space. The windows are contemporary, narrative, and surprisingly refined for such a modest village church, making them one of the most special cultural elements of Eyeries.
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One of the many colorful houses
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Eyeries is known for its brightly colored houses along its main street. Each facade boasts a unique, often contrasting color—from deep purple and sunshine yellow to sea blue. This gives the village an almost magical, cheerful appearance, even on a typically gray Irish day. The village also served as the setting for several scenes in Yves Boisset's film "Un taxi mauve" (1977). It is also the origin of Milleens, a soft cow's milk cheese.
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Opposite the stone circle is a hawthorn decorated with ribbons in the ancient Irish-Celtic tradition
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A vibrant and welcoming village, Ardgroom is a charming place to visit while exploring the Beara Peninsula. The Village Inn is a lively pub and serves good food during the main hiking season. If you're lucky, you might even see some live music. Meanwhile, the Harrington's Post Office is something of a hub, with its shop and cafe.
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The lands surrounding Cashelkeelty bear the hallmarks of neolithic and medieval times, with boulders defining field boundaries, ancient roads and standing stones. Originally five stones, today Cashelkeelty boasts just three, thought to date from between 1300 and 700BC. The remains of a cremated young adult were discovered beneath the centre.
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Castletownbere is a beautiful harbour town, sheltered by Bere Island. It's Southwest Ireland's main fishing port, with many colourful vessels bobbing on the water. There are many places to eat and drink, plus plenty of accommodation options too. MacCarthy's Bar is a well-known establishment and rose to prominence when travel writer Pete McCarthy shared its charms, having entered while following the “never pass a bar that has your name on it” rule. It's said that actor Colin Farrell was once barred from the pub. Though he's since made peace with the landlord.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available around Glenbeg Lough?
There are 9 easy hiking trails around Glenbeg Lough, offering a variety of experiences suitable for all skill levels.
What makes the easy hiking trails around Glenbeg Lough unique?
The easy trails here are set within a dramatic, fjord-like landscape, shaped by glacial movements. You'll experience open mountainsides, cliffs plunging into the lough, and panoramic views of Kenmare Bay and the Iveragh Peninsula from elevated points. The region is also part of the Glanmore Bog Special Area of Conservation.
What do other hikers say about the easy trails in Glenbeg Lough?
The easy hiking routes in Glenbeg Lough are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 170 reviews. Hikers often praise the tranquil atmosphere, scenic coastal views, and accessible paths.
Are there any historical or cultural landmarks to see on easy hikes near Glenbeg Lough?
Yes, the area is rich in history. You can visit the Cashelkeelty Stone Circle loop, which leads to an ancient stone circle. Local folklore also mentions a 'mass rock' at the far end of Glenbeg Lough, used for clandestine religious services during Penal times, and the lough itself is linked to the legend of the Children of Lir.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see on an easy hike around Glenbeg Lough?
You'll encounter the oligotrophic Glenbeg Lough itself, surrounded by cliffs and open mountainsides. The trails offer views of the rugged confines of Glenbeg, the expansive Kenmare Bay, and the uplands of the Iveragh Peninsula, including the Macgillycuddy Reeks. The area is also part of the ecologically important Glanmore Bog Special Area of Conservation.
Are there suitable parking options for easy trailheads around Glenbeg Lough?
Yes, many easy trailheads, particularly those starting from villages like Ardgroom, offer convenient parking. For example, routes like the Ardgroom – St. Finian's Church loop and the Ardgroom & Pulleen loop typically have accessible parking nearby.
What is the best time of year to enjoy easy hikes around Glenbeg Lough?
While Glenbeg Lough offers beauty year-round, the spring and summer months (April to September) generally provide the most pleasant weather for easy hikes, with longer daylight hours and milder temperatures. However, the dramatic landscape can be enjoyed in all seasons, with appropriate gear.
Are there any cafes or pubs near the easy hiking trails for refreshments?
Yes, villages like Ardgroom, which serve as starting points for several easy trails, offer options for refreshments. You can find local cafes and pubs to relax in after your walk.
Are the easy hiking trails around Glenbeg Lough suitable for families with children?
Absolutely. Many easy trails, such as the Ardgroom & Pulleen loop, are easily accessible with gentle elevation gains and mostly paved surfaces, making them ideal for families. The shorter distances and scenic coastal views are also popular with children.
Can I bring my dog on the easy hiking trails in Glenbeg Lough?
Yes, many of the easy hiking trails around Glenbeg Lough are dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially in areas with livestock or protected wildlife, and to clean up after them to preserve the natural environment.
Are there any easy circular routes available?
Yes, several easy circular routes are available. Popular options include the Ardgroom – St. Finian's Church loop from Ardgroom and the Ardgroom & Pulleen loop, both offering scenic and manageable circular walks.
What is the typical duration for an easy hike in Glenbeg Lough?
Easy hikes around Glenbeg Lough vary in length, but many can be completed within 1 to 2 hours. For example, the Ardgroom – St. Finian's Church loop takes about 1 hour 47 minutes, while the shorter Ardgroom & Pulleen loop can be finished in under an hour.
Most popular routes around Glenbeg Lough
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