This is a 6.5km linear walk between Kilcoe and Ballydehob, which can be started in either Kilcoe Church or Ballydehob.

From the Kilcoe Trail Head (adjacent to Kilcoe Catholic Church), follow the blue arrows past the Church, whose rose window inside was designed by L. Clarke / Harry Clarke Ltd. Note the iron rings on the wall to tie up horses. Passing the primary school (1987), continue on to the detour to Roaringwater Pier (if you wish) before backtracking to head west towards Ballydehob. Up the steep hill, visit the 18th century R.C. Church ruin and Grotto on your left.

This walk features four options southward to visit some old famine piers. However the next detour is to a 13th century Church ruins and Graveyard that allows spectacular views of Kilcoe Castle. Going west see Mt Gabriel with its twin domes monitoring air traffic on the North Atlantic. On your left observe some of Carbery’s Hundred Isles, and the Fastnet Rock Lighthouse manned up until 1989.

Paul Gorm is worth a visit, as is Skeaghanore East Pier beyond the Duck farm. Proceed to Ballydehob via the 12-Arch Viaduct, built in 1886. These options will increase the walking time by up to 1.5 hrs.

Points of Interest along the walk are

• The 12 Arch Bridge

• Old Piers and Churches,

• Kilcoe Castle

• Meen Bridge

Be very careful of road traffic on the N71.