Fastnet Trails Lisheenacrehig Loop Walk Kilcoe Church, Kilcoe, Skibbereen/ Ballydehob area, Co. Cork
Fastnet Trails Rossbrin Loop Walk Trailhead: Beside Ballydehob Hall, Ballydehob, Co. Cork
Fastnet Trails Butter Road Walk Trailheads at Ballydehob or Schull
The Lisheenacrehig Loop is a gentle 7.7km countryside walk beginning at Kilcoe Church on the Fastnet Trails network. Following green waymarked arrows, this easy loop crosses quiet rural roads and passes places of historical interest, including the former Cross House pub, Kilcoe National School (1897), Kilcoe Post Office, and the 1905 Kilcoe Catholic Church with its Harry Clarke–designed rose window. The route also highlights Murrahin, site of the ancient Battle of Murrahin between the O’Driscoll and O’Mahony clans. With minimal ascent and attractive coastal views, it offers a relaxed and enjoyable West Cork walking experience.
The Rossbrin Loop Walk is a scenic 13km coastal route forming part of the Fastnet Trails network around Ballydehob. Beginning beside Ballydehob Hall, the walk follows quiet country roads with sweeping views across Roaring Water Bay, Carbery’s Hundred Isles and, from higher points, the Fastnet Lighthouse. Along the route, walkers encounter historic sites including Stouke Graveyard, the old Ballycummisk Copper Mine, Cappaghlass Mine and the dramatic ruins of Rossbrin Castle overlooking the cove. With varied scenery and gentle gradients, it offers a rewarding half‑day coastal walk for all levels.
The Butter Road Walk is a 10.3km moderate linear trail linking Schull and Ballydehob, following part of the old 17th‑century Bridle Road – formerly the only route east out of Schull and once connected to Cork’s historic Butter Market. Starting from either end, walkers follow amber arrows past Cadogan’s Strand, the Mill House, the “Idle Bridge”, and along the old green lane with rising views over Schull Harbour and Mount Gabriel. The walk also passes Stouke Graveyard and offers scenic coastline, heritage features and peaceful countryside paths. Walking boots are recommended.
www.discoverireland.ie/cork/fastnet- trails-lisheenacrehig-loop-walk
www.discoverireland.ie/cork/ fastnet-trails-rossbrin-loop-walk
www.discoverireland.ie/cork/ fastnet-trails-butter-road-walk
Baltimore Heritage Trail Baltimore, Co. Cork
Fastnet Trails Bechers Walk Lisheen Church, Ballydehob
Bonane Beara Cailleach Beara Loop Molly Gallivans, Bonane, Co. Kerry
The Baltimore Heritage Trail offers a self‑guided walking route through the historic coastal village of Baltimore, tracing over 5,000 years of settlement. Visitors encounter plaques explaining landmarks linked to Neolithic activity, early Christian ringforts, medieval fishing traditions, and the dramatic 1631 “Sack of Baltimore,” when Algerian pirates captured more than 100 villagers. The trail highlights Baltimore’s long maritime story, from pilchard fishing and European trade links to the village’s later role in sailing and tourism. Walkers are encouraged to follow the route to the famous Beacon for sweeping harbour views.
Becher’s Walk is a 12.5km easy loop trail beginning at St. Comghall’s Church in Lisheen and following quiet country roads through historic and scenic parts of Aughadown. The route passes landmarks such as an old forge at Kilkileen Cross, Aughadown Creamery (a co‑op since 1945), a gazebo believed to be a Becher family folly, and the ruins of Aughadown House. Walkers enjoy sweeping views over Roaringwater Bay and Kilcoe Castle, as well as wildlife- rich wetlands along the Ilen River where wading birds like curlew gather at low tide.
The Cailleach Beara Loop is a challenging but deeply rewarding 9.9km trail showcasing the dramatic beauty of the Sheen Valley and the Cork–Kerry borderlands. Beginning at Molly Gallivan’s traditional farm, the route climbs Releagh Hill and continues over the Esk Mountain Ridge toward Turner’s Rock, offering sweeping views stretching south to Bantry Bay and north as far as Carrauntoohil on a clear day. The loop mixes woodland paths, open hillside and quiet laneways, with some soft and boggy sections, making it ideal for seasoned walkers seeking an immersive mountain hike.
www.discoverireland.ie/cork/ baltimore-heritage-trail
www.discoverireland.ie/cork/ fastnet-trails-bechers-walk
www.discoverireland.ie/kerry/ cailleach-beara-loop-bonane-beara
PAGE | 20
Made with FlippingBook - Share PDF online