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Sheep's Head - Lighthouse Loop
Kilcrohane, Co. Cork
Free to visit
With stunning views over West Cork’s famed coastal scenery, the Sheep’s Head Lighthouse Loop is 4km of raw, rugged beauty. Don’t miss the chance to explore this corner of the Wild Atlantic Way.

Taking two hours to complete, this loop circles the far tip of the spectacular Sheep’s Head Peninsula in County Cork.

The loop’s terrain consists of tracks and paths which are sometimes steep and rocky. The trail also passes some high cliffs.

Starting and ending at the Toreen Point car park at the peninsula’s tip, a well-signposted footpath then leads you past rocky outcrops and idyllic Lough Akeen before reaching the lighthouse at the end of the headland.

The path continues along the northern side of the peninsula, crossing some rough ground underfoot. Care is needed here as sheer cliffs and steep coastal crags dominate this section of the headland. Soon after you have rounded the cliffs, the short 4km loop diverts across the headland and returns to the car park.

Near the trailhead you’ll find welcome refreshment at Bernie’s Cupán Tae café. Or in nearby Kilcrohane you’ll find yet more options for a post-walk treat.

Trail details

Type:
Walking Trail
Location:
Sheep's Head Tooreen Point
Grade:
Strenuous
Format:
Loop
Length:
3.77510602km
Ascent:
50m
Dogs allowed:
No
Time:
2 hours
Nearest town start:
Kilcrohane
Nearest town finish:
Kilcrohane
Start point:
Tooreen Point carpark at the tip of Sheep's Head peninsula
Finish point:
Tooreen Point carpark at the tip of Sheep's Head peninsula
Waymarking:
Blue arrow on yellow background
Facilities:
Car park
Why we like it
  • This loop skirts the small, picturesque lake known as Lough Akeen. You’ll also embrace endless coastal scenery on the trail, including views of Mizen Head and the Beara Peninsula.
  • Sheep’s Head Lighthouse has been shining bright at the peninsula’s edge since 1968 and stands seven metres tall.
Contact details
Tooreen, Co. Cork, Ireland
Leave no trace
  • Plan ahead and prepare
  • Be considerate of others
  • Respect farm animals and wildlife
  • Travel and camp on durable ground
  • Leave what you find
  • Dispose of waste properly
  • Minimise the effects of fire
More to discover at this venue
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