At the foot of the imposing Macgillycuddys Reeks massif, this hike, which takes place in a beautiful atmosphere, takes you on the ascent of a small peak with a beautiful panorama.
(S/E) From the car park, continue South on the small road. Enter a small wood and reach a crow's feet. From the car park at pass (4), Kerry Way waymarkers are posted from place to place.
(1) Follow a track to the South-West. Cross a river and head south.
(2) Ignore a path on the left and pass between the buildings of a farm. Slowly go up the valley of the Gearhanagour Stream River.
(3) Shortly before the river turns left, turn right (South - West). The slope straightens and the path makes several hairpin turns to reach an unnamed pass.
(4) When you reach a junction. Head due West and quickly climb the prominent summit of Beann Dhearg.
(5) After enjoying the view, the way back is via the same path to the car park (S/E).
Waypoints
S/E : mi 0 - alt. 633 ft - Small car park
1 : mi 0.34 - alt. 564 ft - Three-way junction
2 : mi 0.65 - alt. 620 ft - Intersection - Derrynafeana farm
Alternative starting point:
It is possible to park at the crow's feet (1), however there is a reduced number of places.
Terrain & Gears: Hiking shoes recommended. After the Derrynafean farm, the ground can be quite wet. Even if the altitude is low, bring warm clothing and protection against rain and wind.
Car park:
Reach the starting point at Lough Acoose (Loch an Chuais in Gaelic), a dozen kilometres south of Killorglin. At the Northern tip of the lake, take a small road that heads South-East (on the left when coming from Killorglin) towards Derrynafeana. About 1.5 km further, park in a small car park near houses.
Useful detailed map (at least the one that accompanies this description). A trail on smartphone and a compass can be useful in case of fog.
Worth a visit
Nice wild atmosphere after Derrynafean Farm (2) and up to the top (5).
Beautiful panorama from the top (unless the clouds interfere).
To open this route on your smartphone, you must have the Visorando app installed. If not, got to the Apple Store (iPhone) or Google Play Store (Android) to download the app.