West of Ireland is famous for its beauty and its nature. There is plenty to see and many mountains to climb, including the highest peak Carrauntoohil. This region is always popular with tourists and walkers. But just on the another side of the MacGillycuddy Reeks is Black Valley. Spectacularly beautiful, remote and rarely visited. Hidden gem.

Through the Black Valley runs Kerry Way one of National Waymarked Trails. It starts and finishes in Killarney town. The total length of the trail is 214 kms which makes it the longest trail in Ireland. Apparently it is the most popular one as well. Hard to believe, as every time we walked this trail in the Black Valley we had it to ourselves.

Black Valley can be a starting point to climb Carrauntoohil, for more information about this option read my post. Black Valley can be a destination itself. If you are looking for a stunning place to visit, without many tourist, this place hits the spot. But now, enough of talking, words can not describe the allure of the place. Visit Black Valley and you too will be under its charm!

Practicalities: Map no 78 published by OSI (www.osi.ie)

There is no reliable public transport to/from the valley, car is the best solution. Black Valley is accessible by road from Gap of Dunloe and from Moll’s Gap. Both roads are narrow and windy.

There is a hostel near the start of the valley, called BlackValley Hostel.