St. Finbarr’s Pilgrim Path

In West Cork and South Kerry the practice of walking pilgrim paths to St Finbarr’s hermitage in Gougane Barra has been in place for many centuries. One such path leads from Drimoleague, where – local tradition has it – St Finbarr arrived at the Top of the Rock in the sixth century and admonished the people to return to Christ, before making his way to Gougane Barra. (Link to more information at Pilgrim Paths of Ireland)

St. Finbarr's Pilgrim Path Details
DistanceGradeEstimated Walking Time
36 kmStrenuous12 hrs
AscentDescentMin. HeightMax. Height
1301 m1269 m19 m537 m
St. Finbarr's Pilgrim Path Marker & Downloads
St. Finbarr's Pilgrim Path Directions & Map

In the sixth century St Finbarr of Cork is said to have visited the Top of the Rock, where he admonished the people to return to Christ while on his way to, or from Gougane Barra. There has been a long tradition of pilgrimage to Gougane Barra from this spot. The route is marked with the Slá Bharra marker, and comprises a two day journey of outstanding scenic and spiritual reward. Link to more information