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Fionn MacCool Loop - Bonane Beara
Bonane, Co. Kerry
Free to visit
Free car parking
Refer also to 105A- Druids Glen loop for further information on the Bonane area. Bonane is a beautiful valley situated in the picturesque south west of Ireland. Situated on the main roadway between the picturesque towns of Kenmare to Glengarriff.

A-B. From the trailhead follow the blue (and green and purple) arrows through the gate and onto the farm laneway. The green arrows are for a shorter loop - the purple arrows for a longer loop. Enjoy the journey through the traditional Irish farmyard as the laneway ascends to reach the top of the hill behind the farem. Now the loop descends and crosses the main road before descending along a farm roadway to reach an iron bridge over Esk Stream. Cross the bridge, turn right and follow the laneway to join a surfaced roadway. All three loops turn right here.

B-C. Now the loops join with the Beara Way - a long distance walking route around the Beara Peninsula, and marked with the familiar yellow arrows and walking man. At the second Y-junction note that the Beara Way and purple loop turns left - but you continue straight. Follow the roadway for over 1km and watch for a large hayshed on your right after which the green loop turns right and through a gateway. You continue straight ahead here.

C-D. Continue to follow the blue arrows along the roadway past a number of junctions to reach a right bend where a roadway to your left leads to the Crows Nest. The purple loop rejoins here. Veer right.

D-A. Follow the sand road for 500m to cross Esk Stream at a concrete bridge and onward for another 500m to a T-junction with the MAIN ROAD. Turn right and be aware of traffic for the last 200m back to the trailhead.

Bonane is a paradise for visitors offering a multitude of activities including hill walking, cycling, fishing, and an abundance of archaeological and historical sites. Separated from County Cork by a unique hand-cut tunnel, Bonane links both the Ring of Kerry and the Ring of Beara – both trips of breathtaking beauty. The River Sheen with its crystal clear waters (and subject of many ballads) flows through the parish and is a popular for fishing. For the less adventurous a visit to one of the local coffee shops to savour the home baking or view the local crafts is equally enjoyable.

Trail details

Type:
Walking Trail
Location:
Bonane Loop Walks
Grade:
Easy
Format:
Loop
Length:
5.20km
Ascent:
80m
Dogs allowed:
No
    Time:1 hour 30 minutes
    Nearest town start:Bonane/Kenmare
    Nearest town finish:Bonane/Kenmare
    Start point:Molly Gallivans Visitor Centre, Bonane
    Finish point:Molly Gallivans Visitor Centre, Bonane
    Waymarking:Blue arrow on white background
    Facilities:Car park
Contact details
Releagh, Co. Kerry, V93 HY26, Ireland
Leave no trace
  • Plan ahead and prepare
  • Be considerate of others
  • Respect farm animals and wildlife
  • Travel and camp responsibly
  • Leave what you find
  • Dispose of waste properly
  • Protect nature from fire
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