Curra Hill

Overview

Curra Hill rises to 275 m (902 ft) on the western edge of the Glenbeigh Horseshoe in County Kerry. Though modest in height, the hill rewards walkers with a kaleidoscope of landscapes – from pine‑clad fairy forests and rugged coastline to rolling green fields and distant mountain silhouettes. The summit is marked by a cairn that frames spectacular panoramas over Rossbeigh Strand, Castlemaine Harbour, the Dingle Peninsula and the Atlantic beyond. The walk is a popular family outing and a favourite launch point for hang‑gliders and paragliders who swoop down to the beach below.

History & Background

The lower slopes follow a slice of local heritage. From 1893 the line formed part of the Killorglin–Valentia Harbour railway, the most westerly rail route in Europe. It linked the mainland with Valentia Island until its closure in 1960 (often quoted as the early 1960s). Much of the old track‑bed has been repurposed as part of the long‑distance Kerry Way and the new South Kerry Greenway.

At the foot of the hill, community artists have transformed the pine plantation into a whimsical Fairy Forest. Hand‑crafted fairy houses are tucked among the trees, creating an enchanted walk that delights children and adults alike.

Geology & Landscape

Curra Hill is classified as a Marilyn (prominence 170 m) and sits on the Ballinskelligs Sandstone Formation – purple sandstone and siltstone that give the hill its rugged, weather‑resistant character. The summit offers uninterrupted 360° views across the Atlantic, while the lower slopes are cloaked in a mixed‑wood plantation of Scots pine, providing the fairy‑like ambience that inspired the community art project.

Walking the Trail

The 6.5 km loop can be started from any of three well‑signposted trailheads:

• Trailhead A – a small track off the Kerry Way in Glenbeigh Wood (grid V663 908). This is the most popular start, winding through the Fairy Forest before emerging onto the old rail line.
• Trailhead B – a dirt road on the western side of the hill (grid V638 898). This route is favoured by hang‑gliders and offers the quickest ascent to the cairn.
• Trailhead C – a newer access point on the north side of the hill (grid V651 909). From Glenbeigh village walk past Barrview Lodge, cross a newly installed metal footbridge over a stream, then climb the final 150 m to the summit.

The walk is gentle enough for most walkers, but the forest floor can become slippery after rain, especially on the old railway sections. A Discovery Map 78 is recommended for navigation, and the route is marked on the OSI 1:25 000 series (map sheets 78, 79).

Summit Cairn

At the top stands a stone cairn locally known as Laghtshee (sometimes miss‑spelt Faghtshee on older maps). It provides a perfect photo‑op, framing Rossbeigh Strand, Castlemaine Harbour and the distant Dingle Peninsula. The grid reference for the summit is V654 903 (10‑figure: V6543290355).

South Kerry Greenway Connection

A second section of the South Kerry Greenway opened on 2 April 2026, creating a 4.2 km surfaced path from Curra Road in Glenbeigh to the Mountain Stage. Highlights include:

• A smooth, wheelchair‑friendly surface that runs through the woodland corridor of Curra Hill.
• Views of the Coolroe and Beenreagh mountain peaks as the trail leaves the forest.
• A restored Curra Railway bridge crossing the old line.
• A purpose‑built car park and public toilet at the Curra Road lay‑by (accessible parking spaces are available).
• Ongoing work to extend the greenway from Mountain Stage via a boardwalk to Griffins Cottage.

The greenway offers an alternative, traffic‑free way to reach the hill’s base and links the Curra Hill walk to the wider network of greenway routes in South Kerry.

Flora & Fauna

The pine plantation supports a variety of wildlife. Red‑squirrel sightings are occasional, while the lower slopes are grazed by sheep – a reminder to keep gates closed after passing. In spring the forest floor is carpeted with bluebells and heather, adding colour to the Fairy Forest walk.

Practical Information

• Opening: Open year‑round, free of charge.
• Pet policy: Dogs are not permitted on the trail to protect the Fairy Forest and grazing sheep.
• Parking: Free parking is available in Glenbeigh village (near the post office) and at the Curra Road lay‑by, which also provides public toilets.
• Public transport: From Killorglin take the 279A bus to Glenbeigh; the trailhead is a short walk from the village centre.
• Facilities: No toilets or water on the hill itself, but Glenbeigh village offers cafés, a shop and public restrooms. The greenway car park includes wheelchair‑accessible toilets.
• Safety tips: Wear sturdy hiking boots, carry a water bottle and a snack, and keep gates closed after passing. The summit area is used by paragliders in summer – watch for launch activity.
• Seasonal notes: The walk is most popular in June–August when daylight is long and the weather is settled. Winter walks are possible but the old rail line can be icy; a waterproof jacket and crampons may be advisable.
• Photography tip: Early morning light filters through the pine canopy, creating a magical glow in the Fairy Forest. The summit cairn is best photographed at golden hour when the Atlantic light sweeps across the sea.

Route details

Getting there

• By bus: 279A from Killorglin to Glenbeigh, then a short walk to the chosen trailhead.
• By car: Park in Glenbeigh village or at the Curra Road lay‑by; the route is sign‑posted from the main road.
• Coordinates: 52.0490332, -9.9617672 (useful for GPS devices).

Nearby Attractions

While you’re in the Glenbeigh Horseshoe, consider a quick detour to Rossbeigh Strand for a beach walk, or explore the historic Castlemaine Harbour. The Dingle Peninsula is visible from the summit and makes an excellent day‑trip extension via the Kerry Way. The Coomasaharn Horseshoe can also be glimpsed from the higher sections of the trail.

Seasonal & Safety Tips

• Best months: Late spring to early autumn (May‑September) for clear views and longer daylight.
• Weather: The Atlantic can bring sudden changes; check the forecast and bring waterproof layers.
• Footwear: The forest floor and old rail‑track sections are often muddy; sturdy boots with good grip are essential.
• Wildlife: Sheep graze the lower slopes – keep a respectful distance and close any gates you pass.
• Paragliding: Summer months see frequent launches from the western summit; give launchers plenty of space.

Curra Hill blends natural splendor, cultural heritage and a touch of adventure, making it a rewarding destination for families, photographers and anyone seeking a quintessential Kerry experience.