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.
The first section of the South Kerry Greenway will open to the public on Friday 19 December, offering 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.
- The route is fully surfaced, offering a gentle, easy-to-traverse path, and commands absolutely spectacular views across Kells Bay and the Atlantic Ocean.
- Vehicular and pedestrian access is available from both ends:
- 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).
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- There are limited accessible parking spaces available at the former Kells Train Station car park as a temporary measure.
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- Toilet facilities will be available for public use at Golden's of Kells.
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.
Works are progressing on section 2 of the South Kerry Greenway, which will run approximately 5 km through woodland from Curra Woods to Mountain Stage, the final phase of construction will be completion of a boardwalk which will see planned opening ahead of the 2026 summer season.
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.
