Glanlough to Cahergal (West)
The Sheep’s Head Way (West) starts in Bantry town, then travels the north side of the peninsula to Sheep’s Head lighthouse, returning to Bantry from the south side.
This second stage of the Sheep’s Head Way leads you from Glanlough to Cahergal via Gortnakilly. The path follows the ridge, giving spectacular views of Beara and Mizen. There are several historical sites along this section, the Pieta Statue, the Mass Rock and a Chambered Cairn,
The terrain is hill and mountain, and is rough underfoot and can be wet and boggy in places. Misty and foggy conditions can occur quickly, so wearing appropriate walking gear is essential.
Glanlough to Cahergal Details
| Distance | 16.8 km |
| Grade | Strenuous |
| Estimated Walking Time | 6 hrs |
| Ascent | 565 m |
| Descent | 540 m |
| Min. Height | 33 m |
| Max. Height | 297 m |
Glanlough to Cahergal Description
From the parking area turn right, downhill along the road and then left at the first junction. Follow the road, taking the right fork until you see the marker on the left which takes you off the road. At some places and in misty conditions, the next post maybe difficult to spot so keep an eye on the path which climbs to follow the ridge. You have fine views over Dunmanus and Bantry bays. In clear weather, the Fastnet rock can be seen across the Mizen.
Keep to the path to avoid bog holes between posts 111 and 112. At marker 117, the path kinks to the left to avoid steep ground. There are several places with steep ground or rocky cliffs along this route so don’t be tempted to take a short cut to the next post, stay on the path. The path descends to the low saddle where it crosses the Mass Path at Maulnaskehy, marker 151. Down to the South is Ahakista, and to the North, Dun Óir. This path gives access to both sides of the peninsula if you decide to shorten your walk here.
The route then climbs again, going slightly to the north to the aptly named ‘Windy Gap’. From marker 169, there is a trail which takes you off the main route along the ridge via Seefin but it is steep and difficult and not part of the official Sheep’s Head Way, so take care not to lose your way here. The marked Sheep’s Head Way main route descends by a track, right to Gortnakilly. A road section leads west uphill from there via the ‘Goat’s Path’ to the ridge below Seefin and Finn McCool’s Seat.
The route leads off down the ‘Horseshoe Road’ at marker 195. If you continue a short distance past this right turn to the top of the Goat’s Path there are good views and picnic tables if you need a rest. Kilcrohane is down the road to the south and the Peakeen Ridge walk leads off from behind the statue.
The next section is a short walking route which brings you off the ‘Goat’s Path’ road down ‘The Horseshoe Road’ from Seefin. It leads you along a green track and a small road to the parking area at Cahergal.
It’s easy to follow the track as it winds its way below the ridge, finally descending to the public road. At marker 200 , turn left onto the quiet country road and continue to the parking area at Cahergal.
Trail Marker
