Ardgroom: Coast, Walking Trails and Lakes

Ardgroom is the closest village to the starting point of the Pulleen Loop; the Beara Way section to Lauragh also begins here. This gives you two distinct walking options to consider when planning your trip: a loop with coastal views and a section between Ardgroom and Lauragh. These are complemented by the prehistoric Ardgroom (Canfea) stone circle and two lakes offering opportunities for trout fishing. If you are looking for a hotel in Ardgroom, these specific interests can help you decide what to focus on during your trip.

Coastal highlights along the Pulleen Loop

The Pulleen Loop offers views of Kenmare Bay and the coast of County Kerry. There is a small beach and a sea cave along the route at Dogs Point. The Coosmore sea cave system is 250 m from the starting point of the loop. The two references to sea caves have different points of reference: Dogs Point is associated with the beach and sea cave, while the 250 m refers to Coosmore and the starting point.

Beara Way: timing and route

The Beara Way section from Ardgroom to Lauragh is a specific option if you are looking for a walk with a defined duration: it takes 3 to 4 hours, is of moderate difficulty and reaches a highest point of 200 m. From Ardgroom, the route leaves the village along a minor road that runs parallel to the main R571. Along the way, it passes the prehistoric Ardgroom (Canfea) stone circle, considered the most easily accessible prehistoric monument in the area. Further along the Ardgroom-Lauragh route, the trail also passes through part of the Dereen Estate.

Lakes and historical references

The world’s tallest Ogham stone is associated with Ardgroom. Glenbeg and Derryvegal are Ardgroom’s two lakes; both offer opportunities for trout fishing.

Coast, walking or fishing?

The practical difference between these options is clear: the Pulleen Loop combines coastal views with a beach and sea cave; the duration, difficulty and highest point are given for the Beara Way section. If trout fishing is the deciding factor, Glenbeg and Derryvegal are the two lakes.

More to explore in the wider Cork destination

The wider Cork destination offers more cultural and garden highlights. Barryscourt Castle in Carrigtwohill was built between 1392 and 1420 as an Irish tower house. Charles Fort in Kinsale was built between 1677 and 1682 to protect the town and harbour; the fort’s walls and ramparts offer views over Kinsale Harbour. Fota Arboretum in County Cork covers 11 hectares and is home to rare, delicate trees and shrubs that grow outdoors. Fota’s gardens also include an ornamental lake, formal pleasure gardens, an orangery and a sun temple.

Discover more destinations: Carrigrohane, Doneraile, Kilcrohane, Carrigaline, Churchtown, Kinsale, Castletownroche and Goleen.

View the wider travel guide: Cork.