Click a date below or contact us to book. Please note this holiday includes walks classified as strenuous difficulty.
For assistance with your booking or receive more information, please call or email Fergal.
Carrauntoohil is part of the Macgillycuddy Reeks Mountain range on the ring of Kerry and is the most majestic and tallest of Ireland’s mountains. Carrauntoohil is the central peak in this area with a height of 1,040m. Unsurprisingly, these Kerry Mountains between Killarney and Sneem offer arguably the best hiking and walking opportunities in Ireland. Due to the strenuous nature and variable weather conditions, many walkers opt for this guided walking holiday to summit Carrauntoohil.
On Day 1 our guests on the Carrauntoohil (& Torc Mountain) Walking Holiday arrive at Álaind Lodges (postcode V93AC80) or a partner B&B in Sneem. You’ll find directions and a map on our website. Please contact us if you require collection from Killarney Airport or Train Station. In the evening our small group of walkers gathers for a holiday briefing. 
Luxury Double Ensuite Bedrooms
Blazing real fire stove – a relaxing end to the day
The first of our two walks follows the Kerry Way to the top of Torc Mountain and serves as a wonderful warmup for our Carrauntoohil ascent on Day 3.
However, don’t be complacent, this is still a wonderful challenge. The Kerry Way winds through native woodland and stunning valleys before arriving at Torc Mountain. Here we ascend the boardwalk to the top at 520m to take in beautiful views of Killarney lakes and the National Park.
To the one side we’re spoiled with views of mountains, valleys and lakes and to the other mountains stretching down to the sea. The coastal view are especially beautiful when the light is right and haze-free.
If we’re lucky, we might even catch sight of the Kerry white-tailed sea eagles which regularly visit the area.
Sea-eagles are regularly seen in the Kerry Mountains
At the end of our walk, we’ll enjoy some apres-walk refreshments before getting ready for your chosen evening dining in Sneem village.
Today we’re setting out on to climb Carrauntoohil, Ireland’s tallest mountains. Choosing one of the lesser climbed routes to the top, we depart Álaind Lodges in Sneem nice and early. Whichever route we choose (and there are many – see here), the walk will be a strenuous one on rough track and open mountainside. It involves a height gain of approximately 900m which takes 6-7 hours.
If you are enjoying a three night walking holiday, you’ll be departing Sneem after hopefully a good night’s rest and a full breakfast.
If you are booked on a longer walking break, you’ll be preparing for another excitement filled day of hiking or walking in Sneem.
A deposit of €100 per person is required to book this walking holiday package (or full payment if you are booking within 4 weeks of arrival).
The balance of the payment is due 4 weeks before the start of the trip.
Not Included:
The itinerary of all our holidays will be tailored to meet the expected weather conditions and the duration of each holiday.
If you want an exciting escape from your routine, this mini-break is for you. You’ll feel invigorated while exploring trails, open countryside and rugged mountains with a small group of walkers.
You will enjoy stunning rugged Mountain scenery, wild Ring of Kerry landscapes and coastal views.
Afterwards you’ll relax in your wonderful bed & breakfast accommodation at Álaind Lodges, Sneem or nearby highly rated B&B.
Everyone who loves to hiking and going off-trails in the mountains.
Rest assured we take plenty of stops to take in the views and chat. We keep the group together, so everyone has a rewarding experience.
What’s more, our holidays are ideal for couples, groups and single guests.
Participants should have experience of hiking in the mountains and must be of good health and fitness.
This is important as these hikes are classified as moderate (Torc) to strenuous (Carrauntoohil). You can expect extended ascents, exposed heights and steep or broken ground.
Waterproof boots and suitable clothing (no jeans or cotton tops) are essential.
You can walk year round in Kerry as even winter conditions are mild with snow and ice being uncommon. The average weather temperatures are between 7C degrees (45F degrees ) in January and February, and 15.5C degrees (60F degrees) in July and August. In fact the weather is largely frost free thanks to the warm Atlantic Gulf Stream that allows even semi-tropical vegetation to thrive here.
The maximum number of guests is 6 persons. 12 persons can participate if a second mountain leader guide is available. Each holiday usually requires two or more persons to take place.
Please contact Álaind Walking’s Fergal Harrington if you want to discuss your holiday requirements.
You’ll base yourself at Álaind Lodges or other highly rated B&B in Sneem for the duration of your walking holiday, where you’ll find it easy to relax.
This will be your home from home as you settle into your private luxury bedroom. You’ll easily relax here.
Our luxury rooms have comfy beds, pressurised power showers, wooden floors, satellite TV and wifi and tea/coffee facilities.
Furthermore, we have a drying area for your boots and wet gear so you can start each day in comfort.
Our hiking holiday packages includes all guided hikes, luxury bed & breakfast, packed lunch and apres-walk refreshment.
Reassuringly we and our supplier partners take Covid-19 precautions to ensure you feel safe and protected. We participate fully in Fáilte Ireland’s Covid-19 Safety Charter.
You should bring waterproof boots, waterproof jacket & over trousers and backpack.
As we may be walking through boggy and wet grass, I recommend gaiters and walking poles too.
You should also have a hat, gloves, extra thin warm layers, thick hiking socks, water bottle & lunchbox.
We can supply walking poles. You may also wish to bring a personal first aid kit and sunscreen / insect repellent.
Fergal Harrington is the owner of Álaind Holidays and a professionally qualified Mountain Leader, who you can email or phone +353-85-1422677 directly to help you plan your perfect holiday.
No problem! Simply contact Fergal at Álaind Walking directly and he’ll get right back to you with details and answers to any other questions you may have.
We can arrange transfers to and from Killarney Airport or Train Station with the cost shared equally among those travelling. Please inquire directly with us.
Cancellations made 60 days or more before the start of the trip will receive a full refund of all payments with no charge applied.
Cancellations made 29-59 days before the start of the trip will be charged the €100 per person deposit.
Cancellations made 15-28 days will receive a 50% refund.
Cancellations made within 14 days of arrival will not be refunded.
Our Guide is a Certified Professional Mountain Leader.
Our Walking Holiday Packages are hard to beat for value and quality.
We provide accommodation and tailor our walks to meet the needs of your group.
Our Mountain Leader Guide will bring you to the most amazing places
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