Coolea Wilds Cycle Route

The Gougane Barra to Kenmare cycle route is set inland amongst beautiful mountain valleys and some wonderful woodland. It starts in the glorious surrounds of Gougane Barra and passes through the Coolea region before descending into the lively market town of Kenmare. The majority of the cycle, which is roughly 30 miles in length, is sheltered from the main road and offers wild, rugged mountain scenery, fantastic forestry trails, historical sites as well as slow moving rivers and gentle flowing streams.

Leaving the peaceful retreat of Gougane Barra behind, turn left at the T-junction about 50 yards from the hotel. Travel along this narrow country path, which hugs the banks of Gougane Barra Lake before gentling ascending out of the valley. Here, there is amble time to stop amid the stony walls and blooming hedgerows to enjoy the mouth-watering views of the lake and forest below.

About 3kms from Gougane Barra turn right at the T-junction and continue cycling alongside farms and small bungalows that dot the roadside. Descending to a tarmac road, cyclists should take a left turn and travel for approximately a kilometre before taking another left turn at the T-junction bringing you onto a quiet road with cows and sheep dotted along the countryside.

At the next junction take the left turn for Kenmare. A steady climb is rewarded with an awe-inspiring and breath-taking view of 3 ancient glacier valleys interlocking below. This old road soon descends through a magnificent forest. It is here where one can let �their hair down� zigzagging among the trees before joining the main road again stopping for a refreshing drink at the �highest pub in Ireland�. Passing by wind farms, rivers, and castles it�s another 15 kilometres or so, mainly downhill, towards the historical town of Kenmare and re-entering the Kingdom and county of Kerry!