The South Kerry Greenway follows the corridor of the former Killorglin–Valentia Harbour railway line, once the most westerly railway in Europe. Operating from 1893 to 1960, the line connected stations in Killorglin, Glenbeigh, Kells, Cahersiveen and Valentia Harbour—the westernmost terminus. Known for its dramatic, cliff-hugging route and Atlantic vistas, the line made its final journey on 30 January 1960, leaving behind iconic structures such as the Gleesk Viaduct.
After years of planning and development, a number of sections are now open, offering the public an opportunity to experience this spectacular route. Construction continues on the remaining sections, with the full Greenway ultimately connecting Glenbeigh to Reenard, south-west of Cahersiveen.
To help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone, all users are encouraged to follow the Greenway Code of Respect by sharing the trail responsibly and respecting fellow walkers, cyclists, local residents and the surrounding environment.
Mountain Stage - Kilkeehagh
A further section of the South Kerry Greenway will officially open to the public this Friday, adding another 2.2km to the spectacular walking and cycling route from Glenbeigh village. The newly completed segment extends from the recently constructed boardwalk at Mountain Stage to Griffin’s Cottage at Kilkeehagh near the N70 road, bringing the total accessible distance from the Glenbeigh Trailhead to 6.2km.
This latest addition offers visitors an even greater opportunity to experience the stunning landscapes of South Kerry, including panoramic countryside views from a striking 100-metre elevated boardwalk along the route.
Car parking and toilet facilities are available at the Glenbeigh Trailhead car park, located a short distance from Behy Bridge in Glenbeigh. Visitors are advised that the Glenbeigh to Kilkeehagh section incorporates two short stretches of ‘quiet road’. These shared spaces are used by vehicles, walkers and cyclists, and all greenway users are asked to take care and show consideration to others while using the route.
Glenbeigh Village – Mountain Stage
The second section of the South Kerry Greenway opened to the public on Thursday 2nd April. This stretch runs for 4.2km, starting at Curra Road in Glenbeigh and finishing at Mountain Stage.
The route is fully surfaced, making it easy and comfortable to walk or cycle. It begins along a peaceful woodland corridor on Curra Hill, before continuing for a short distance along Curra Road as a ‘quiet road’ section. From there, the trail returns to the off-road greenway, where you can enjoy views of the Coolroe and Beenreagh mountains. The route then crosses the old Curra Railway bridge before reaching Mountain Stage.
- The main car parking area and a pedestrian access is situated along the Curra road directly opposite the start of the Greenway. https://maps.app.goo.gl/L4FtsAsf3MhGbuQQ7
- Toilet facilities will be available for public use at Curra road car park.
Visitors can also enjoy everything Glenbeigh and the surrounding area has to offer. The bustling village of Glenbeigh is home to welcoming cafés, restaurants and traditional pubs, making it the perfect base for a day outdoors. Nearby attractions include the beautiful Blue Flag beach at Rossbeigh, the enchanting Fairy Forest, and a range of outdoor activities including horse trekking, walking trails and water sports.
Goldens of Kells – Kells Train Station
The first section of the South Kerry Greenway opened to the public in December 2025, offers a 3.1 km stretch from Golden’s of Kells to just beyond the former Kells Train Station — once part of the scenic Farranfore-Valentia Harbour railway line, now a cherished heritage site and community hub.
Car parking and and pedestrian access is available from both ends. Toilet facilities are available for public use at Golden's of Kells.
- The main car parking area and a pedestrian access is situated at Golden’s of Kells. This is a temporary arrangement. A permanent car park and accessible access will be constructed at a later date. (Please note: The temporary access at Golden's is steep and not suitable for wheelchairs or buggies). https://maps.app.goo.gl/y9PAJaAHuRaVgXmB6
- There are limited accessible parking spaces available at the former Kells Train Station car park as a temporary measure. https://maps.app.goo.gl/fKE19C9YHMnQDgxc9
Situated along the renowned Skellig Coast, this first phase brings visitors into one of Ireland’s most breathtaking regions. Stretching from Kells Bay to Castlecove on the Iveragh Peninsula, the Skellig Coast lies within Kerry’s International Dark Sky Reserve, rich in archaeological sites, local food and drink experiences, vibrant culture, unspoiled landscapes, and dramatic views towards the Skellig Islands.
Ongoing Works
Kerry County Council are progressing the planning, construction and design of the remaining phases of the South Kerry Greenway project which will provide a completed 32km trail from the trail head carpark in Glenbeigh to Reenard (south west of Cahersiveen).
As with the wider Greenways network, where possible the route will follow the former railway corridor, restoring historic infrastructure. Bridges, viaducts and tunnels will be repaired and reused wherever feasible; where original structures have been lost or subsumed, alternative designs such as new gabion-lined sections or new bridges will be introduced to maintain the route.
The South Kerry Greenway is part of the wider Kingdom of Kerry Greenways initiative, offering locals and visitors alike the chance to explore County Kerry’s natural beauty by foot or by bike.
Discover the Listowel to Limerick Greenway or Tralee to Fenit Greenway.
This project is supported by the Department of Rural and Community Development through the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme.
