An adventure on Ireland's longest path – Kerry Way Loop

In the green southwest of Ireland, the Kerry Way winds around the Iveragh Peninsula through picturesque valleys and over panoramic hilltops, including Carrauntohill – Ireland’s highest peak. At 200 kilometres (124 mi), the Kerry Way is the longest hiking trail on the island. But, you can also split it into day hikes. To give you a taste of the fantastic landscapes, photographer Hannes Becker spent three days along the Kerry Way Loop.

His journey took him 70 kilometres (43 mi) to and from Killarney, with a good 2,500 metres (8.200 ft) of elevation gain in between. To avoid hiking the same route out and back, Hannes took a boat across Lough Leane in Killarney National Park to reach the start. Once on dry land, his adventure took him over mountain passes, through the Black Valley and to the top of Carrauntoohil at sunrise.

The easiest way to reach the Kerry Way is via Dublin. From Dublin Heuston station, the Tralee train takes you direct to Killarney in just over three hours.