Overview
Gullaba Hill (Irish: Cnoc Ghullaba) rises to 603 metres on the northern fringe of the Caha Mountains, just north of Kilgarvan in County Kerry. Listed on the Arderin, Vandeleur-Lynam, Myrddyn Dewey and Sim classifications, it ranks as the 277th highest summit in Ireland. The name translates roughly to “hill of the beak or snout,” a reference to the distinctive Roman-profile buttress on the nearby Caoinkeen cliffs. While it doesn’t carry the same fame as some of Kerry’s higher peaks, Gullaba Hill is a favourite among experienced hillwalkers for its unspoiled character and commanding vantage point.
The Walk & What to Expect
The classic route is a 14 km loop that takes around six hours to complete. The terrain shifts between boggy boulder-clay, fine grass and patches of heather, with two wet cols on the ridge that require careful route-finding. The first kilometre follows a forest path before joining a newly cut drainage channel that leads up to the main ridge. From there, the trail climbs steadily to Spot Height 637 m before dropping slightly to the 603 m summit.
The views from the top justify the effort. Looking south-east, you can trace the skyline to Knockboy (706 m), the highest peak in County Cork. To the west, the panorama sweeps across the Kenmare harbour coastline and reaches the distant, layered peaks of the Iveragh Peninsula. Northwards, the oddly shaped Bird Hill (412 m) breaks the horizon. In summer, the grassy summit is often dotted with bog cotton, its white blooms standing out against the green and brown terrain.
Early in the loop, the trail skirts the edge of Lough Akinkeen, backed by the sheer Caoinkeen cliffs. Further along, a short detour drops into the valley holding Coumyfaun Lake, known for its unusual surface patterns, while a 100 m descent northward leads to Coomclogherane Lake, set in a classic corrie.
Navigation & Route Options
A detailed OS Discovery Series map (sheet 85) is strongly recommended. The summit sits at grid reference W005 681, with the lower col at 564 m located at W002 676. The two wet cols on the crest can be tricky in wet weather; experienced walkers usually skirt the marshiest patches by keeping to slightly higher ground.
For those seeking a longer day out, the standard loop can be combined with the neighbouring Knocknamanagh circuit. This extended trek covers roughly 14.39 miles (23.1 km) with 3,681 ft of ascent and takes about six and a half hours. The extended route offers an alternative approach via The Priest’s Leap and is well documented on hiking platforms like Hiiker.
Practical Information
- Access & Parking: The walk begins at a sharp bend on the R569, just south of Kilgarvan. A small lay-by provides parking for a handful of cars. The start point is marked by a track heading toward Lough Akinkeen (grid reference 022 657).
- Facilities: There are no toilets, cafes or visitor centres on the hill. Plan to carry enough water and snacks for the full six hours.
- Season & Conditions: Classified as a “hard” route, Gullaba Hill demands sturdy walking boots, waterproof layers and a reliable sense of navigation. The exposed ridge can be cold and windy, but on clear summer days the summit can become surprisingly warm.
- Cost: Entry is completely free.
- Safety: Hill-walking involves inherent risks. The route includes steep sections, peat bogs and exposed ridges. Weather in the Caha Mountains changes quickly, so check forecasts before setting out and turn back if visibility drops or conditions deteriorate.
Summit Statistics
- Height: 603 m (1,978 ft)
- Prominence: 39 m
- Parent Summit: Knocknamanagh (Barrerneen)
- Range: Shehy / Knockboy
- Recommended Map: OS Discovery Series 85
Nearby Amenities
The village of Kilgarvan lies just 3 km to the south and offers a handful of B&Bs, a pub and a small shop for basic supplies. For a wider selection of restaurants, hotels and transport links, Kenmare is approximately 12 km east. Both towns make convenient bases for an early start, which is recommended to avoid afternoon cloud cover rolling in from the Atlantic and to secure a spot in the limited lay-by parking.