Walkers are spoilt for choice on Bere, with routes of varying difficulty appealing to all. Possibilities include slow rambles along by-ways as well as jaunts over more rugged terrain. Walks begin at both ferry points, of Rerrin village (East End) and Oileán na gCaorach (West end). See the Getting There section for more details.

Bere Island’s walkways are incorporated in the larger Beara Way, which extends over the whole of the Beara peninsula, with over 220 kilometres of trails. However, Bere island hosts some of the Beara Way’s highlights, with sites of rich military heritage of various eras, as well as spectacular breathtaking scenery of the mainland’s Slieve Miskish and Caha Mountains, unique to Bere’s offshore position.

Below is information on the individual walks on Bere Island. Most walks are looped allowing the walker to see new sights constantly. For location of specific walks, see the Bere Island Map on this website. For more detailed information on walks, you can purchase The Bere Island Experience booklet through this website.

Main Beara Way

Length: 19km

Terrain: Varied

Level of difficulty: Varied, with easy ambles along country roads to hills which are more suited to the experienced walker. Opportunities exist to shorten the walk dramatically.

Starting point: Either Ferry point

Sights: Stretches from East to West of the Island, taking in many of the Island’s sights.

ArdnaKinna Lighthouse Loop:

Length: 11km

Terrain: Varied, including some difficult rugged sections.

Level of difficulty: Moderate to Difficult

Starting point: West End

Sights: The track heads west and then south on an old military track. Ardnakinna lighthouse is in itself a must-see on Bere. There was originally a beacon built here in 1850, with the present lighthouse lit in 1965. The rugged track to the lighthouse along the coastline provides stunning views back onto the mainland, whilst the area around the lighthouse provides a perfect picnic spot with views of Sheep’s Head, the Mizen, and west to Dursey Island.

Doonbeg Loop

Length: 5km

Terrain: Varied, some steep sections

Level of Difficulty: Moderate to difficult

Starting point: Middle of the island, just south of the Gallán (standing stone)

Sights: This takes in beautiful views to the south of Sheep’s head and the Mizen peninsula.

Rerrin Loop

Length: 6 km, although can be shortened

Terrain: Flat, predominately along the road

Level of difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Starting point: East End (Rerrin) ferry point

Sights: This route encompasses several sites of historical importance, including the British fortification at Lonehort. It also takes in views of Martello towers, Ardaragh Wedge tomb, and a Viking shipyard. This is essential viewing for the military enthusiasts.

Lonehort Heritage Trail:

Length: 2km

Terrain: Flat on grass

Level of Difficulty: Easy

Starting point: Lonehort Battery, in the eastern end of the island. This walks adjoins the Rerrin Loop.

Sights: Walk around the notorious site of a British Battery, taking in the massive trench, the two 6 inch barrelled guns and many other structures.

Click here for a map of Bere Island.