Guided Walks with Local Mountain Guides
As part of our ongoing work to support outdoor recreation in the Ballyhoura and Galtee region, along with selected walks in nearby mountain areas, we are delighted to introduce a series of guided walks led by our experienced local guides.
This initiative brings together a network of local guides who are contributing their time and expertise to help grow and promote walking in the region. While the walks are guided on a voluntary basis as part of this initiative, a participation fee applies. This helps cover organisational costs and supports the ongoing development and promotion of outdoor recreation across Ballyhoura.
Each guide brings their own local knowledge, stories, and expertise, offering visitors and locals alike the opportunity to explore the landscape in a deeper and more meaningful way.
This initiative also supports our wider goals of strengthening local communities, promoting sustainable tourism, and fostering a strong network of outdoor leaders across the region.
Whether you’re looking for a gentle nature walk or a more challenging hike, there’s something here for everyone.
Bay Lough & Knockmealdowns Guided Walk with Elmarie O’Brien
Join Elmarie O’Brien for a guided walk through the stunning Knockmealdown Mountains, taking in the beautiful Bay Lough and surrounding landscape.
Starting at Kilballyboy Woods, this scenic loop gradually climbs along the lower slopes of Sugarloaf Mountain before crossing the Vee and descending towards Bay Lough, offering sweeping views along the way. The route then continues through native woodland, including Scots pine forest, before returning to the starting point.
This moderate walk is suitable for those with a reasonable level of fitness and offers a great opportunity to experience this unique landscape with a knowledgeable local guide.
Walk Details:
Location: Knockmealdowns (Kilballyboy / The Vee area)
Date: Saturday, 25 April 2026
Duration: 3.5 hours
Distance: 9km
Elevation: 276m
Difficulty: Moderate
Price: €25 per person
What to Bring: Sturdy walking boots | Waterproof jacket | Water and snacks
Booking Link: https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/ba...
Lough Diheen and Galty Mór with Paddy Hegarty of Active Walks Ireland
Join Paddy Hegarty of Active Walks Ireland for a guided hike in the Galtee Mountains, following a spectacular section of the Cush Horseshoe
Starting at Cush Car Park, the route follows a forest track along the Cladagh River before ascending towards a col overlooking Lough Diheen — a perfect spot to pause and take in the views of the lake and the dramatic cliffs beneath Galty Mór. From here, the walk continues to the col between Galty Mór and Galty Beag, before looping around the second half of the Cush Horseshoe. The route takes in the summit of Galty Mór, continues above Lough Curra, and descends past the Stone Man before returning to the starting point.
This is a challenging and rewarding mountain hike, suitable for those with a good level of fitness and some hillwalking experience.
Walk Details:
Location: Galtee Mountains (Cush Car Park)
Date: Saturday 16 May
Time: 9:30am
Meeting Point: Cush Car Park
Duration: 4.5–5.5 hours
Distance: 11.5km
Elevation Gain: 783m
Difficulty: Moderate–Strenuous
Price: €35 per person
What to Bring: Hiking boots with ankle support | Waterproof jacket and trousers | Lunch, snacks and water | Warm layers (jacket, hat, gloves) | Sunscreen | Walking poles (recommended)
Booking Link: https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/lo...
Castle Oliver & Ballyhoura Loop with Declan Clancy
Join Declan Clancy for a guided walk through the Ballyhoura Mountains, taking in a scenic loop around Castle Oliver and the surrounding landscape.
Starting in Ballyorgan, this route passes through Clovers Wood and climbs towards Oliver’s Folly, offering excellent views across the Ballyhouras. The walk continues past the historic entrance to Castle Oliver and into the “Wilderness”, before ascending Lenihan’s Steps and reaching the top of “The Pinch”. From here, the route descends towards Glenosheen and returns to Ballyorgan through forest trails.
This moderate walk covers a mix of woodland paths, open hillside, and quiet country roads. Along the way, Declan will share local history and stories connected to Castle Oliver and the wider area.
Walk Details:
Location: Ballyorgan (Ballyhoura Mountains)
Date: Sunday 14 June
Time: 10:00am
Meeting Point: Entrance to Ballyhoura Mountain Lodges
Duration: 3.5–4 hours
Distance: Approximately 14km
Difficulty: Moderate
Price: €25 per person
What to Bring: Sturdy walking boots | Waterproof jacket | Water and snacks
Booking Link: https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/ca...
Canon Sheehan Loop with Oonagh Kelly
Join Oonagh Kelly for a guided walk along the scenic Canon Sheehan Loop, a beautiful route through woodland and riverside trails in the Ball
This 9km loop follows the Ogeen River through peaceful forest, crossing between County Cork and County Limerick along the way. The route offers lovely views across the Blackwater Valley and surrounding mountains, combining natural beauty with local heritage. Walkers will also pass points of historical interest, including links to Canon Sheehan and the area’s past.
This moderate walk is suitable for those with a reasonable level of fitness and offers a relaxed and enjoyable experience in a tranquil natural setting.
Walk Details:
Location: Glenanaar Forest, Ballyhoura
Date: Saturday, 4 July
Time: 10:00am
Meeting Point: Glenanaar Forest Car Park
Duration: 2.5 hours
Distance: 9km
Elevation Gain: 120m
Difficulty: Moderate
Price: €25 per person
What to Bring: Sturdy walking boots | Waterproof jacket | Water and snacks
Booking Link: https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/ex...
Galtymore Guided Hike with James Foley of Beyond the Glass Adventure Tours
Join James Foley of Beyond the Glass Adventure Tours for a guided hike to the summit of Galtymore, the highest peak in the Galtee Mountains.
Starting from King’s Yard, the route follows a clear track before ascending onto open mountain terrain. The climb gradually steepens along a grassy ridge, leading to a final rocky ascent to the summit, marked by a distinctive cross. From the top, walkers are rewarded with expansive views across the Galtees and surrounding landscape. The return follows the same route, with care required on steeper sections.
This is a strenuous hike suitable for experienced walkers with a good level of fitness and appropriate mountain gear.
Walk Details:
Date: 16 August
Time: 9:00am
Meeting Point: King’s Yard
Duration: 5 hours
Distance: 11km
Elevation Gain: 700m
Difficulty: Strenuous
Price: €35 per person
What to Bring: Hiking boots with ankle support | Waterproof jacket and trousers | Lunch, snacks and water | Warm layers (jacket, hat, gloves) | Sunscreen | Walking poles (recommended)
Booking Link: https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/ga...
Temple Hill Guided Hike with Maureen O’Brien
Join Maureen O’Brien for a guided hike to Temple Hill in the Galtee Mountains, a challenging and rewarding route offering panoramic views ac
Starting from Combaun Wood, the walk follows a forest track with a steady ascent through conifer woodland. After approximately 3km, the route leaves the forest road and enters open mountain terrain, climbing towards the spur of Temple Hill and Knocknascrow. The final section follows a gradual ridge to the summit (785m), marked by a large cairn, where walkers are rewarded with expansive views of the surrounding landscape.
This is a strenuous hike requiring a good level of fitness and some hillwalking experience, with a mix of forest trails and exposed mountain terrain.
Walk Details:
Location: Galtee Mountains (Combaun Wood)
Date: Sunday 27 September
Time: 9:00am
Meeting Point: Combaun Wood
Duration: 7 hours
Distance: 12km
Elevation Gain: 700m+
Difficulty: Strenuous
Price: €35 per person
This hike involves sustained climbs, uneven ground, and exposed mountain conditions. It is suitable for experienced walkers only.
What to Bring: Hiking boots with ankle support | Waterproof jacket and trousers | Lunch, snacks and water | Warm layers (jacket, hat, gloves) | Sunscreen | Walking poles (recommended) | Fully charged phone
Booking Link: https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/te...