South Kerry Greenway
Overview
The South Kerry Greenway is a scenic walking and cycling route along the Iveragh Peninsula, following the line of the former Glenbeigh to Valentia Harbour railway. When complete, it will extend for approximately 32 kilometres, linking Glenbeigh to Cahersiveen and offering views of mountains, coastline incorporate built heritage features such as Gleesk Viaduct and 2 sandstone tunnels along the cliff coast of Drung hill.
Sections of the greenway are now open to the public. Visitors can currently enjoy routes at Kells and Glenbeigh, each offering a safe, off-road experience with gentle gradients and a smooth surface suitable for all ages and abilities.
As further phases are completed, the greenway will provide a continuous, high-quality route through South Kerry and become a key outdoor attraction along the Wild Atlantic Way.
Glenbeigh to Kilkeehagh
The South Kerry Greenway currently offers 6.2km of accessible route from the Glenbeigh Trailhead to Griffin’s Cottage at Kilkeehagh. Beginning in Glenbeigh, the route follows a fully surfaced path, making it suitable for both walking and cycling. It starts along a peaceful woodland corridor on Curra Hill before continuing for a short distance along Curra Road as a designated ‘quiet road’ section. The trail then returns to the off-road greenway, offering views of the Coolroe and Beenreagh mountains as it crosses the historic Curra Railway Bridge and continues to Mountain Stage.
From Mountain Stage, the greenway continues to Griffin’s Cottage at Kilkeehagh parallel to the N70, further enhancing the visitor experience. This section includes a striking 100-metre elevated boardwalk, providing panoramic views of the surrounding South Kerry countryside, as well as the new N70 overbridge.
Car parking and toilet facilities are available at the Glenbeigh Trailhead car park, located a short distance from Behy Bridge in Glenbeigh. Visitors should note that the Glenbeigh to Kilkeehagh route incorporates two short stretches of ‘quiet road’, which are shared by vehicles, walkers and cyclists. All Greenway users are asked to take care and show consideration to others while using the route.
Golden’s of Kells – Kells Train Station
The South Kerry Greenway passes through a varied landscape of coastal views, woodland and rural countryside. The Kells section overlooks Kells Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, while the Glenbeigh section offers a sheltered woodland setting along Curra Hill.
These environments support a range of native plant and animal species, with hedgerows and woodland corridors providing important habitats for birds and wildlife. As the greenway develops, it will continue to enhance biodiversity while allowing visitors to experience the natural beauty of South Kerry in a low-impact way.
Code of Conduct
To keep our greenways welcoming and safe for all users—walkers, cyclists, families, and wildlife alike—please review our Code of Conduct before you go.
Read Code of ConductGetting There
Whether you’re travelling by train, bus, or car, use these tools to plan your route.
Common Questions
The greenway can currently be accessed at Golden’s of Kells, Kells Train Station, and Curra Road near Glenbeigh. There are other local access points along the route but access via the formal access points is encouraged.
Bus services operate through South Kerry, including routes serving Glenbeigh and the Skellig Coast. For up-to-date information. More information on these services can be viewed on www.transportforIreland.ie and on www.locallinkkerry.ie
There is car parking available at Glenbeigh trail head, Golden’s of Kells and the former Kells Train Station.
There is a private EV charging station at Golden’s of Kells.
All open sections are fully surfaced, providing a smooth and even route suitable for walking and cycling.
No water fountain facilities are available on the route.
There are bike parking facilities located along the route.
No bike repair stations are available along the route.
Kerry Greenway Bike Rentals are located in Glenbeigh village to the rear of the Glenbeigh Hotel. They provide bike hire and servicing. Further information on these services can be found online.
Seating is limited along the current sections.
There are public toilets available at the Glenbeigh Trailhead Car park and also at Golden’s of Kells for customers only.
There is a playground located at Rossbeigh Beach, 2.5 kilometres from the Glenbeigh Trail Head carpark.
News and Updates
View All
Grand Canal Greenway Update
Royal Canal Greenway Update