Spectacular views of the Fastnet Rock and West Cork coastline await you on Cape Clear 7km Gleann Loop Walk.
This National Loop walk on Cape Clear Island starts and ends at the Tourist Office where local island producers sell their crafts. Stunning views of the island and mainland coastlines are a true highlight of this experience!
Gleann Loop Walk Route
From the mapboard at the Information Office / Shop follow the red arrows (and green arrows for the shorter Cnoicin’s Loop) along the roadway until you reach a roadway on your left. This is the point to which you will return – for now continue straight.
Follow the green and red arrows as the road ascends. After 200m you will reach a 3-way junction. Keep left and shortly afterwards splendid views of South Harbour will appear. After 600m you’ll reach a 3-way junction near a hostel. The green loop turns left here, but you continue straight on.
After 100m take a sharp left away from the quay and ascend sharply to reach a left bend. Turn right onto a sandy roadway. Follow the roadway for 150m to a left bend and watch for the red arrow which turns you to the right and into a field. Now follow a narrow walking path as you are taken around the area called An Gleann. Please stick to the official path which keeps you on the outer edge and affords you spectacular views of the Fastnet Rock and the West Cork coastline. After over 1km the loop turns inland and takes you cross-country to join a surfaced road where you rejoin the green loop.
After only 200m watch for a marker which directs you left through a stone stile and onto what was an old Mass Path. Follow the red and green arrows as the track takes you across an area called Cnoicins (the little hills) and exits onto a surfaced road where you turn left.
| Start / Finish: | Tourist Office |
|---|---|
| Length: | 7km |
| Elevation: | 280 metres |
| Estimated Time: | 1hr 45min |
| Grade: | Moderate |
| Minimum Gear: | Walking boots, rain gear, fluid, and a mobile phone. |
| Ferry Timetable: | Check details here |
