Ireland’s leading adventure travel and corporate team-training company since 1995

MOUNTAINS, LAKES AND FORESTS

with PAT FALVEY & Team

world renowned explorer

Experience a mindful journey through the stunning landscapes of Tomie’s Woods, the Lakes of Killarney, the Black Valley, and the Gap of Dunloe. This day-long adventure offers a tranquility and natural beauty. As you explore ancient oak forests, picturesque lakeshores, rugged valleys, and majestic mountain passes, you’ll find yourself immersed in the enchanting surroundings, rejuvenating your spirit with each step. Finally, unwind with a well-deserved drink at Kate Kearney’s Cottage, reflecting on the day’s adventures and camaraderie shared with fellow explorers.

Ireland's breathtaking landscapes, and natural beauty.

Indulge in a serene expedition through Ireland’s picturesque landscapes, where each step unveils the unparalleled beauty of nature. Traverse the ancient oak forests of Tomie’s Woods, where moss-covered boulders and towering trees create a mystical ambiance. Wander along the tranquil shores of the Lakes of Killarney, where the stunning reflections of surrounding mountains dance upon the water’s surface. Explore the rugged terrain of the Black Valley, where towering peaks and deep valleys tell tales of resilience and endurance. Journey through the awe-inspiring Gap of Dunloe, where imposing cliff walls and shimmering lakes create a scene straight out of a fairy tale.

BOOKING INFORMATION

Public booking (Individuals and groups) See dates

Private Personal Guides booking

Pick any date over the 12 months.

Ireland's breathtaking landscapes, and natural beauty.

Indulge in a serene expedition through Ireland’s picturesque landscapes, where each step unveils the unparalleled beauty of nature. Traverse the ancient oak forests of Tomie’s Woods, where moss-covered boulders and towering trees create a mystical ambiance. Wander along the tranquil shores of the Lakes of Killarney, where the stunning reflections of surrounding mountains dance upon the water’s surface. Explore the rugged terrain of the Black Valley, where towering peaks and deep valleys tell tales of resilience and endurance. Journey through the awe-inspiring Gap of Dunloe, where imposing cliff walls and shimmering lakes create a scene straight out of a fairy tale.

AN ADVENTURE BEYOND THE TREK

Our gallery isn’t just a showcase of a trek; it’s a story of adventure, perseverance, and the unforgettable experience of scaling Carrauntoohil. Dive into our video journey and get inspired for your own trek to the summit. Experience the beauty, the excitement, and the sense of achievement that awaits on this iconic Irish adventure.

ITINERARY

Route: Tomes Woods – Lakes of Killarney – The Black Valley – Gap of Dunloe.

Duration: 1 Day (6-7 hours walking)

Gear: General trekking gear for mixed weather

Grade: Easy

Welcome to Tomie’s Woods – where nature meets magic! Immerse yourself in the wonder of one of Europe’s oldest and largest oak forests. As you step through the forest, you’ll be transported to a fairy tale world, where vivid colours and tranquil surroundings.

Relax and take your time exploring this enchanting forest, where moss-covered boulders and ancient trees provide a picturesque backdrop for your adventure. The Oak Forest will calm your senses and rejuvenate your spirit, leaving you feeling refreshed and renewed.

Our journey through the woods begins with a scenic walk to O’Sullivan’s Cascade, a three-tiered waterfall that’s as picturesque as it is breath taking. As we make our way to the edge of Lough Leane (Lake of Learning), we’ll be treated to stunning views that will leave you in awe.

To continue our adventure, we’ll board a boat and set sail through the Lakes of Killarney, where the natural landscape’s beauty will unfold before you.

Embarking on an unforgettable journey we explore the picturesque lakes of Killarney! From the shores of the lake, we’ll continue our way along the edge of the forest, where we’ll discover the fascinating history of the Island of Innisfallen, once the seat of the king of Munster and the birthplace of the famous Annals of Innisfallen.

As we pass under Brickeen Bridge, we’ll be transported to Europe’s largest yew forest, where we’ll marvel at the stunning Muckross House and its beautiful gardens, built-in honour of Queen Victoria in 1861. Along the way, we’ll pass Torc Mountain and the Colleen Bawn Rock, commemorating one of Ireland’s most tragic love stories.

Our journey will take us past an old hunting lodge on Dinis Island, under Toothache Bridge and the meeting of the waters, and onto the Old weir bridge before we make our way to the Long Range and the Upper Lake of Killarney. We’ll be transported to another world as we cruise through the lush vegetation.

We’ll explore the Upper Lake, also known as Serpent’s Lake, where legend has it that Saint Patrick imprisoned the last of the great snakes. As we pass Ronayne’s Island and

Eagle’s Nest Mountain, we’ll be inspired by Alfred Lord Tennyson’s poem “Set the wild echoes flying.”

We break for a delicious lunch at Lord Brandon’s Cottage before the final leg of our journey.

Escape into the stunning Black Valley, nestled between the towns of Killarney and Kenmare. Prepare to be mesmerized by the valley’s breath taking scenery, boasting a unique blend of wild, rugged, and extreme beauty and an air of calmness, friendliness, and tranquillity.

The Black Valley is a natural, untamed wonderland that embodies the struggles of its people throughout the ages. It is one of the most remote regions in the country to have a living community. Despite its history of being wiped out by the potato famine, this valley remains a true testament to the resilience of the human spirit.

As we explore the valley, we’ll marvel at the towering MacGillycuddy Reeks, home to numerous peaks that soar over 3000 feet, including Ireland’s highest mountain, Carrauntoohil. Once covered in vast woodlands until the 17th century, these mountains now stand bare of vegetation, thanks to Sir William Petty’s charcoal works for his ironworks at Glencar.

An unforgettable journey through the Gap of Dunloe as we bid farewell to the Black Valley. This awe-inspiring wonder was carved out by ice flows during the last ice age, leaving behind a rugged and wild landscape that will take your breath away.

As we make our way through the deep gorge, we’ll be surrounded by imposing cliff sidewalls that rise to the sky. The scenery is truly spectacular, and we’ll pass several deep corrie lakes that shimmer in the sunlight, adding to the beauty of this natural wonder.

After our adventure through the Gap of Dunloe, we’ll end our day at Kate Kearney’s Cottage for a well-deserved drink.

Frequently Asked Questions

Pat Falvey’s Mountain Lodge (V93 YK75) or Cronin’s Yard (V93 HK71). This will be confirmed before the date, one of our team members will call or email you with details.

Standard meeting time is 08:30AM and we start the walk after a short brief with your guide. On Private Guiding we will discuss you schedule and pending fitness can alter to a later time.

If conditions are not suitable on the day of the climb, we will discuss an alternate route on the day or posponed to a new date. This will be confirmed with you (preferably by a phone call) 2 – 3 days before the climb.

Trekking boots

Rain jacket and pants

Warm clothing

Wool hat and warm gloves

Rucksack 

Trekking pants or tracksuit bottoms.

Food & Drink

Head torch (for winter dates and night climbs only)

 

A good fitness level from regular exercise is essential. We recommend trekking boots, weather-appropriate clothing, and a rucksack among other essentials. Don’t forget water and energy-rich foods to keep you going.

For a detailed insight, including gear and fitness advice, I highly recommend watching our free informational video. If you’re aiming for treks in other parts of the world, climbing Carrauntoohil with us is a fantastic way to assess your readiness.

It is your responsibility to inform us of any health or fitness issues and any special medication you might be taking.

Please ensure you have enough water (no less than 2 liters), chocolate and/or energy bars, 2 to 4 sandwiches, and for cold days bring a flask with a hot drink.

You will be expanding between 3000 to 4000 calories on the climb and making approximately 25,000 steps.

To ensure all the group reaches the summit, we will be climbing at the pace of the slowest team member, as we will have people at different fitness levels on general group climbs.

WHY CLIMB CARRAUNTOOHIL

WITH PAT FALVEY & TEAM

A top-notch guiding team

With 25+ years of global travel, we love sharing adventure knowledge and exploring new places.

High Altitude Specialists

Experts in high-altitude trekking, we prioritise your success with a comprehensive acclimatisation formula.

Licensed & Bonded

Pat Falvey Irish & Worldwide Adventures is licensed and bonded by the Irish Commission for Aviation Regulation (TA0791).

Dedicated Support

Available round the clock, we go the extra mile to prioritise your adventure and satisfaction.

GUIDED TREK

Mark your calendar and join us for an unforgettable experience. Register today, and we’ll get you all booked and set for the adventure. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to connect with our expert travel consultants who will assist you every step of the way. Don’t miss out on this chance to create unforgettable memories. Secure your spot now and let the adventure begin!

Register Now for Your Next Adventure!

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