The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Glenbeg Lough
4.6
(199)
823
hikers
16
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Glenbeg Lough are set within a distinctive landscape characterized by fjord-like scenery, where freshwater loughs are surrounded by rugged mountainous terrain. Prominent peaks such as Tooreennamna (510m) and Eskatarriff (601m) provide a dramatic backdrop. The area also features the Glanmore Bog Special Area of Conservation and a lacustrine delta, offering varied natural environments for exploration.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Glenbeg Lough
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Eskatarriff loop from Glenbeg…
Last updated: June 29, 2026
8.73km
02:13
520m
520m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
4
hikers
10.2km
02:52
200m
200m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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2
hikers
6.47km
01:47
110m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
1
hikers
9.69km
02:33
80m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
7
hikers
12.8km
03:32
220m
220m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. 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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Free view of the rugged coastline of the Iveragh Peninsula.
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The ruins of Kilcatherine church stand in a quiet, open spot above Coulagh Bay and are one of the oldest Christian sites on the Beara. Low walls, weathered gravestones and a walled graveyard give the place a subdued, timeless atmosphere, overlooking the bay and the distant Kerry mountains.
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The Ballycrovane Ogham Stone stands on a quiet hillside above the north Beara coast and, at over four metres high (5.18m), is one of Ireland's tallest Ogham stones. The slender monolith bears a long, vertical inscription from the early medieval period, likely a name or memorial marker, and looks out over Coulagh Bay and the distant Kerry ranges. The spot feels remote and timeless, with low-lying vegetation, old stone walls
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Glenbeg Lough is a beautiful lake on the Beara Peninsula. It's surrounded by high and fairly inaccessable mountains with few paths but brilliant views and wonderful solitude if you make the effort. The lakeside road is surfaced and provides easy access to the northern shore.
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Eskatarriff is one of the higher peaks on the remote Beara Peninsula. Standing at 601 m (1,972 feet) with nothing higher to the north or south you get amazing views out to sea and across the channels to Irelands other south-west peninsulas. This is a tough mountain to summit, there aren't any real paths and certinally nothing surfaced or maintained so you'll have to find your own way on the sheep trods and boggy hillsides. This does mean that you are also likely to have the hill to yourself.
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Ireland's largest standing stone. It's on private property but can be viewed.
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are there around Glenbeg Lough?
Glenbeg Lough offers a fantastic selection of family-friendly hiking trails. You'll find over a dozen routes specifically curated for families, with 6 of these being classified as easy, making them suitable for various ages and fitness levels.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for families with young children or beginners?
Absolutely! For families with younger children or those new to hiking, we recommend trails like the Ardgroom – St. Finian's Church loop from Ardgroom. This easy 6.5 km route offers gentle paths and a chance to explore historical areas without significant elevation gain.
What kind of scenery can we expect on family hikes in Glenbeg Lough?
The Glenbeg Lough area is renowned for its dramatic fjord-like scenery, with rugged mountains plunging into the freshwater lough. You'll encounter stunning views of the lough, surrounding peninsulas, and distant peaks. The region is also part of the Glanmore Bog Special Area of Conservation, offering unique natural features and diverse landscapes.
Are there any circular routes that are particularly good for families?
Yes, many of the family-friendly routes around Glenbeg Lough are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For a moderate circular option with beautiful lake views, consider the Highland Lake – Highland Lake loop from Ardgroom, which covers about 10 km through mountainous terrain.
What interesting landmarks or historical sites can we see along the trails?
Beyond the natural beauty, the area is rich in history. You might discover ancient stone circles, such as Ardgroom Stone Circle, or the significant Mass Rock, a site of historical importance during penal times in Ireland. These add an educational and intriguing element to your family's hike.
Is it possible to hike with dogs on the family-friendly trails?
Many trails in the Glenbeg Lough area are suitable for dogs, but it's always best to keep them on a leash, especially in areas with livestock or protected wildlife. Please ensure you clean up after your pet to help preserve the natural environment for everyone.
What is the best time of year for family hiking around Glenbeg Lough?
The best time for family hiking in Glenbeg Lough is generally from late spring through early autumn (May to September). During these months, you can expect milder weather and better visibility, making for more enjoyable and safer outdoor experiences. However, the area offers opportunities year-round for those prepared for varying conditions.
What should we wear and bring for a family hike in this region?
The terrain around Glenbeg Lough can be rough, with open mountainsides and long grass. We highly recommend wearing well-soled waterproof boots. Layered clothing is also advisable to adapt to changing weather conditions, and bringing walking poles can be helpful for stability on uneven paths.
Are there good viewpoints that are easily accessible for families?
Many of the trails offer stunning panoramic views of Glenbeg Lough, the surrounding mountains like Tooreennamna and Eskatarriff, and even Kenmare Bay. Even on easier routes, you'll find plenty of spots to pause and enjoy the dramatic fjord-like scenery without needing to tackle the most challenging ascents.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Glenbeg Lough?
The Glenbeg Lough area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 170 reviews. Reviewers often praise the stunning, dramatic scenery, the sense of tranquility, and the variety of trails that cater to different abilities, making it a truly memorable outdoor experience.
Are there options for parking near the trailheads?
Parking availability varies by trailhead. Many popular starting points for hikes, especially those near villages like Ardgroom, will have designated parking areas. It's always a good idea to check the specific route details on komoot for information on parking at the trailhead you plan to use.
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