Barnageehy to Bantry (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 final stage of the Sheep’s Head Way follows quiet country roads before ascending through Vaughan’s Pass to a viewing point above Seskin. From here there are wonderful views of Bantry, down Bantry Bay and Beara.
This stage is less demanding then the other stages of the western section, so you may have time for a trip to Whiddy island or a tour of Bantry House. There are several interesting pubs in Bantry; Ma Murphy’s, The Anchor (with a collection of Bill O’Connell’s antiquities), J.J Crowleys (famous for Irish music), the Boston bar and the Quays. You can find more information about things to see and do in Bantry here.
Barnageehy to Bantry Details
| Distance | 9.4 km |
| Grade | Moderate |
| Estimated Walking Time | 3.1 hrs |
| Ascent | 177 m |
| Descent | 397 m |
| Min. Height | 1 m |
| Max. Height | 222 m |
Barnageehy to Bantry Description
This stage of the Sheep’s Head Way starts at the Barnageehy parking area. Cross the main road to join the smaller road opposite. The trail leaves the road to the left after a short walk at marker 642.
The track leads you to the busy main road (R586) which runs from Bantry to Drimoleague. Cross over with care and pick up the trail on the opposite side. The path climbs towards Vaughan’s Pass. To the left, almost all of the Sheep’s Head peninsula can be seen. The Eastern trail routes towards Drimoleague, Mealagh Valley, and Kealkill lead off to the east at the parking area. To return to Bantry follow the road downhill into the outskirts of the town.
After passing the hospital, turn right at the junction, down Scart Road. Then make a sharp left which will lead you down a quiet laneway that is in one of the oldest parts of Bantry town. Continue keeping left to the Christian Fellowship building and the back of the cinema. THe road turns sharply to the left and you will arrive back at the Sheep's Head information board on the quay from which the western section of the Sheep's Head Way starts.
Congratulations, you have completed the western section of the Sheep’s Head Way!
Trail Marker
