What better way to kick off 2020 and sweat out last year’s champagne than a beautiful hike along the Beara’s coastline? Well, I couldn’t think of a better way so off we went on New Year’s morning to explore a new trail.
Paul and I have stopped at the trailhead for the Pulleen Loop several times in our travels along the Ring of Beara. Our most recent stop was four weeks ago when we were sightseeing with a friend who was visiting from the states. Each stop we have only ventured far enough along the trail to see a small cove where the sea cuts through the coastline, but we always say we will return to hike the entire loop. It is rated as easy and at only 5K it is the perfect short jaunt, unfortunately, we never seem to make it out.
Paul volunteered to stay home with The Girls, so I headed off with a friend who had visited to ring in the New Year with us. We couldn’t have asked for better weather. It was a dry day with very little wind and the sun even broke through the clouds a couple of times.
I have to say that the hike was better than my wildest expectations. The looped trail takes you high enough along the coast for beautiful views of Kenmare Bay and across to the Iveragh Peninsula, but the grade is very easy. The trail is well-traveled and maintained so there is no chance of getting lost.
The only downside is that the trail is quite boggy in places so it is better to wear hiking boots than low shoes as you will step in places and unexpectedly sink to your ankles.
The Pulleen Loop is on the Ring of Beara not far past Ardgroom. You can find more information on it and other trails in Ireland at Irishtrails.ie. This link should take you directly to the page for the Pulleen Loop.
Happy Trails!
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