Sheep's Head - Poet's Way Loop

Hike: The Poet’s Way Loop, on the Sheep’s Head Peninsula, Cork. Exploring the very tip of Sheep’s Head, this is one of 25 short hikes that complement the six-day Sheep’s Head Way. As well as visiting the lighthouse at the end of the peninsula, it extends east along both flanks of the headland, giving a fantastic impression of the wildest and most remote headland in southwest Ireland. Begin by following red arrows, past lovely Lough Akeen, to reach the lighthouse. Traverse the wild north coast of the headland, before climbing across the spine of the peninsula to its southern side. The route finishes with an enjoyable traverse of 239m Ballyroon Mountain before bringing you back to your start point.

Start and Finish at: Tooreen car park at the tip of Sheep’s Head.

Get there: Follow the road along the southern side of Sheep’s Head, through Kilcrohane village, to the car park at the end of the peninsula.

Level: Moderate — signed but sometimes rough footpaths with 320m ascent.

Length / Time: 12.5km / 3½-4½ hours.

Pack: Boots for the rough terrain, and more route details from Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way: A Walking Guide by Helen Fairbairn.

Refuel at: Bernie’s Cupán Tae café (027 67878) in Tooreen car park serves nosh in this wild spot. Phone ahead for up-to-date opening hours.