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Nestled on the border of Limerick and Cork, the Ballyhoura Mountains are a hiker’s paradise, offering over 450km of scenic, waymarked trails that showcase incredible variety in a compact area. As a designated Special Area of Conservation (SAC), these mountains are home to extensive heath and bog vegetation, rocky outcrops, and stream headwaters, creating a haven for biodiversity. Whether you’re seeking a gentle family stroll or a challenging mountain adventure, Ballyhoura has something for everyone. Here, we’ve rounded up some of our favourite hikes in this breathtaking region.
1. Seefin Mountain Trail
Overview: A moderately challenging but short mountain hike.
Difficulty: Moderate. Best suited to regular walkers.
One of the most well know hikes in Ballyhoura. This moderate hike leads to the summit of Seefin Mountain, this trail offers incredible panoramic views of the Ballyhoura region. As you head up the trail be sure to pay attention to trail signage to ensure you stay off the bike-only trails which twist and turn around the forest.
Standing at 510m above sea level and being relatively exposed, this route certainly requires a spare layer and a waterproof shell. Good quality shoes are advisable, as the trail can be quite rough and muddy in places. But fear not—your effort will be rewarded along the way with spectacular views.
The entire hike follows a clear trail, so advanced navigation skills aren’t required. Along the way, keep an eye out for the Hen Harrier and the Peregrine Falcon, two extraordinary bird species that inhabit this region. Their presence highlights not only the ecological diversity of Seefin and the surrounding mountains but also the vital importance of protecting these habitats for future generations.
Park at Ballyhoura Forest Recreational Area for access to toilet and shower facilities and to enjoy a post-hike coffee or snack at Ballyhoura Trailriders.
2. Keale River Walk
Overview: A gentle, flat trail suitable for all levels.
Difficulty: Easy and family-friendly.
Beginning at Ballyorgan, the trail follows the stunning Keale river as it meanders through green countryside. Along the way, you’ll cross quaint bridges and stiles and spot local wildlife such as otters, dippers, kingfishers, herons and squirrels. There’s a number of good picnic spots on the route, our favourite of which is at the Glenroe Fairy Village.
With minimal elevation gain and well-maintained paths, this is a perfect outing for families or those seeking a leisurely stroll. Bear in mind that in places this path is very wet and muddy. Good footwear is recommended. It is not buggy friendly and dogs are allowed on a leash.
Download the Ballyhoura Trails App
3. Darragh Hills Loop Walk
Overview: A loop of moderate length with rolling ascents and descents.
Difficulty: Moderate, ideal for regular walkers.
If the Keale River Walk sounds appealing but you had a more challenging day in mind, why not consider taking on the Darragh Hills Loop? This trail follows the Keale River Walk to the small village of Darragh before heading up into the hills for some beautiful views over the surrounding area before descending back down to the river where you can enjoy the magic of the Glenroe Fairy Villiage. This is also a great spot for a dip if you are so inclined! Expect diverse terrain, from grassy paths (with a bit of mud if wet) to forest tracks and mountain paths. Wildlife enthusiasts might spot deer or birds of prey, adding an extra bonus to this nature-filled walk.
4. Attychraan Looped Walk
Overview: A shorter loop with gentle elevation changes.
Difficulty: Easy to moderate, suitable for beginners and families.
This peaceful loop offers a snapshot of Ballyhoura’s beauty without the commitment of a longer hike. Enjoy sweeping views of the Galtee Mountains, and stroll through serene woodland with lovely views over the patchwork countryside. This well-maintained trail can be walked in any weather at any time of the year.
5. Galtymore (from King’s Yard)
Overview: A challenging ascent with significant elevation gain to 919m.
Difficulty: Difficult, best for experienced hikers.
Starting at King’s Yard, this hike takes you to the summit of Galtymore, the highest peak in the Galtees and the highest inland mountain in Ireland. The trail climbs steeply over rugged and challenging terrain, rewarding your efforts with spectacular views from the top. Be prepared for rapidly changing weather. Extra layers and good outdoor knowledge are essential for this hike. Good quality footwear is also essential with boots recommended for this exposed mountain route. It is of particular importance when you venture off trail that you follow Leave No Trace principles to help protect these fragile ecosystems, ensuring that they remain pristine for future adventurers.
6. Ballyhoura Way
Overview: A 90km long-distance trail with varied elevation.
Difficulty: Varies; day hikes are moderate, while the full trail is challenging.
One of the most accessible and diverse National Waymarked Trails in Ireland, the Ballyhoura Way stretches across picturesque villages, historic sites, and forest trails. Beginning in the town of Tipperary (which is accessible by train or bus) you can choose a to walk a short section or to tackle the entire route. If you decide to do the latter we would highly recommend stopping at Glen of Aherlow Camping and Ballyhoura Mountain Lodges for your overnights. This route is ideal for those looking for a route that touches all the best hikes in Ballyhoura.
The Ballyhoura Way is just a small part of the Beara-Breifne Way. This 500km trail retraces the historical journey of O’Sullivan Beare. A bucket list adventure for any keen walker!
7. Clare Glens Loop
Overview: A short loop with minor elevation changes.
Difficulty: Easy to moderate.
Waterfalls are always guaranteed to be a big hit with all the family. And this short looped walk certainly doesn’t disappoint. The route follows the Clare River which flows through dense forest in a red sandstone gorge creating a very special setting. The numerous waterfalls, the highlight of which is Clare Falls, are a great distraction for little legs and offer up plenty of stunning photo opportunities.
This is one of the nicest and lowest level hikes in Ballyhoura.
You can choose from a 2km or 4km route.
8. Canon Sheehan Trail
Overview: A scenic 9km loop blending history, nature, and gentle climbs.
Difficulty: Moderate, suitable for most hikers with a good level of fitness.
This scenic 9km loop is named after Canon Patrick Augustine Sheehan (1852–1913), a celebrated cleric and writer who spent much of his life in Doneraile. The trail’s starting point is inspired by Glenanaar, one of his most famous novels.
The loop begins by following the left bank of the Ogeen River through natural woodlands. In May, bluebells carpet this stretch, creating a breathtaking display. The trail then follows a forestry road, leading to a preserved Mass Rock which is still used occasionally today.
At a T-junction, the loop turns left, heading east through Ballintlea. Here, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the Blackwater Valley, framed by the Nagle and Knockmealdown Mountains.
9. Benard Loop
Overview: A moderately long trail (15km) with a gradual climb.
Difficulty: Moderate.
Anglesborough, the highest village in the Galtee Mountains, is steeped in history. The trail starts at the community centre, where a plaque honours the area’s rebel traditions. Nearby, a monument commemorates Liam Lynch, an IRA general born in Barnagurraha, who died in the Knockmealdown Mountains in 1923.
Begin your ascent of Paradise Hill along an old turf road once used to transport dried turf from Temple Hill. After leaving the Paradise Hill Loop for the Benard Loop, follow a forestry road offering stunning views of Knockaceol, the “Hill of Music,” midway through the journey.
While this way-marked route does not summit any mountains you can venture off-trail for a simple out-and-back to summit Bernard Hill which offers beautiful views on a good day. If you intend to stay on trail, a good pair of trail shoes would be ideal for this route, however, if you are considering summiting we would recommend wearing a good pair of supportive mids or boots for this hike.
10. Galty Crossing
Overview: A strenuous traverse with steep climbs and descents.
Difficulty: Very challenging, suitable for seasoned hikers or trail runners.
Typically undertaken as part of a group event with the Galty Walking Club or as a race with the Irish Mountain Running Association, the Galty Crossing showcases the rugged beauty of the Galtees. Both of these events are self-navigated and take place during the summer months. This extreme mountain challenge is 32km in length with over 1,500m of ascent, almost all of which takes place off-trail.
Once you have navigated your way to the top of Galtymore you will feel an incredible sense of accomplishment as you take in the spectacular views around you. This route offers an unforgettable adventure for those ready to push their limits. Excellent outdoor knowledge and appropriate gear is essential on this route.
Ballyhoura Bears Walking Club
If you want to join the locals head to the Ballyhoura Bears Hillwalking Club Website. The Ballyhoura Bears hillwalking club is a long-established group based in beautiful Ballyhoura Country. The group organise a variety of walks all year round with a pace and distance to suit everyone. Walks take place on Saturday mornings, Thursday evenings, and on Sundays, the group organize level A and B walks close to home or further afield.
BONUS: Ballyhoura Walking Festival & Joyce Brothers Music Festival
Ballyhoura Walking Festival
Date: 3rd – 5th October 2025
Location: Kilfinane, Co. Limerick
If you want to experience all the hikes in Ballyhoura then we highly recommend the Ballyhoura Walking Festival. Now in its 29th year, this action-packed weekend offers a wide variety of walks ranging from nature-focused strolls to mountain climbing expeditions. Some of last year’s most popular walks included a moonlight walk to Carrighenry, a dawn chorus sunrise walk and a yoga experience walk.
Off the trails, you can enjoy traditional Irish music and dance as the Joyce Brothers Music Festival takes place on the same weekend.
Find out more about the festival
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