Ireland’s South Kerry Greenway has reached another milestone with the opening of a new 10-km coastal section between Mountain Stage and Kilkeehagh. The latest addition extends the accessible off-road walking and cycling route, further enhancing one of the country’s fastest-growing outdoor tourism attractions along the Wild Atlantic Way.
The newly opened stretch combines spectacular Atlantic scenery with rich railway heritage. At Mountain Stage, visitors can cross a 92-meter elevated boardwalk that delivers panoramic views over rolling green hills and Dingle Bay. The viewpoint is also one of the official discovery points along Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way.
Cyclists can rent both traditional and electric bicycles from Kerry Greenway Bike Rentals in nearby Glenbeigh, making the route accessible to riders of all abilities.
The expansion marks another phase in the development of the South Kerry Greenway, which follows the route of the former Great Southern and Western Railway. Operating between 1893 and 1960, it was Europe’s westernmost railway, carrying passengers along dramatic cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
One of the highlights of the new section is the woodland trail across Curra Hill. The sheltered path winds through native woodland before opening onto sweeping views of the Coolroe and Beenreagh mountains, showcasing the rugged landscapes that have made County Kerry one of Ireland’s premier outdoor destinations.
When complete, the South Kerry Greenway will stretch 32 kilometers from Glenbeigh to Reenard. The finished route will feature dramatic cliffside sections overlooking the Atlantic, peaceful forest trails and countryside paths running alongside parts of the famous Ring of Kerry scenic drive and the long-distance Kerry Way hiking trail.
Old rail tracks to be turned into greenways
The project forms part of Ireland‘s growing network of greenways, where former railway corridors have been transformed into safe, traffic-free walking and cycling routes. Their gentle gradients and paved surfaces make them suitable for families, casual cyclists and visitors of all ages and fitness levels.
The greenway begins near Rossbeigh Strand, one of Ireland’s Blue Flag beaches. Along the route, travelers can explore charming villages, heritage sites and coastal attractions.
Among the highlights is Kells Bay House and Gardens, home to one of Europe’s most impressive collections of subtropical plants. Visitors can stroll through cliffside and riverside gardens, stay overnight in the restored Victorian mansion or enjoy authentic Thai cuisine at its on-site restaurant.
Portmagee, Co. Kerry, Ireland (Tourism Ireland)
Further south, the market town of Cahersiveen offers a picturesque marina and a heritage center housed inside the historic Old Barracks. The town is also home to the Skellig Six18 Distillery & Visitor Experience, where premium Irish whiskey and gin are produced using botanicals and inspiration drawn from the surrounding Atlantic landscape.
The distillery’s name honors nearby Skellig Michael, the UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its sixth-century monastic settlement. The island’s monks carved 618 stone steps into the steep rock face leading to the monastery, one of Ireland’s most iconic historic landmarks. Boat trips to Skellig Michael depart from the fishing village of Portmagee, located about 15 kilometers from the current southern end of the greenway.
The continued expansion of the South Kerry Greenway strengthens County Kerry’s position as one of Ireland’s leading destinations for active tourism, combining cycling, hiking, history and some of the country’s most spectacular coastal scenery along the Wild Atlantic Way.
