A trip to Kinsale is not complete without taking in one of the beautiful walking or running routes this town has to offer. You’ll enjoy unique vantage points of area that you may not otherwise see, from breathtaking coastal paths to superb views of the town, you won’t be disappointed by the various loops and trails on hand.

Below you’ll find our favourite routes all with links to google maps for you to see in more details.

The Scilly Walk is a signposted pedestrian path along the sea that runs from Scilly, the area across the harbour from Kinsale, all the way to Summercove and Charles Fort.  From this lovely and leisurely walk you can enjoy spectacular views of the inner harbour and the town. To view a map of the walk, please click here. 

Scilly walk is a great running or walk route for all ages and levels. Predominantly flat, this coastal path gives you a stunning view of the town, marina and harbour from just above sea level. Towards the end of the path there is a small but steep climb to bring you to the top of Summercove village. From here you’re a short stroll down to the Bulman Bar where you can stop off for refreshments before continuing on to the famous star shaped fort, Charles Fort.

Starting out just by Charles Fort there is a well marked walking trail that takes you along the easterly side of the harbour. From Charles Fort there is a well maintained hard surfaced gravel path that undulates slightly as it guides you to a boatyard, which is nestled in a small cove named Middle Cove. This section is approximately 1.3 km. This path has some grassy areas for picnics as well as benches facing out to sea for a well deserved rest. 

From Middle Cove the path turns into a trail which continues on all the way along to a secluded and small stoney beach called Lower Cove. This 2nd part of the route is approximately 1km. This section of the trail can be a bit overgrown and muddy at times so take care if you choose to continue on from Middle Cove. To see a map from Charles Fort to Middle Cove please click here. 

From the centre of Kinsale you can enjoy a flat and foot pathed walk all along the seafront to Castlepark where you’ll find James Fort and the Dock Beach. One way this is approximately 3.4km but it can be extended by adding in a loop around the town if you so choose. For a map with alternative routes please view here. This is one of the more popular walking and running routes around Kinsale.

Starting in the town, this walk moves down the pier past the marina towards the mouth of the Bandon River. As you pass the Trident Hotel the only footpath available is on the left hand side of the road. While this is a very safe and wide path, take care as this section of the road can be busy with passing traffic. The route brings you up to the bridge where you can continue right to complete a loop back into the town or take a left over the bridge towards the Dock and James Fort. As you pass the bridge take another left onto a straight road with a wide path all the way down to Castlepark where you have easy access to the beach or forts. 

Continue up to James Fort on the grassy headland either via the beach or an entrance located near the Castlepark Marina. While James Fort is well maintained it is a more natural grassy and in part bumpy path that may not be suitable for older adults or those with physical difficulties.

This is a stunning yet more challenging walking and running route that pulls in some spectacular views of the Old Head of Kinsale. To see the route and various options please see here.

Whether you choose to start from Garretstown or Garrylucas beaches or the Old Head, you can do a complete loop to get back to your starting point. The full route is about 6km long with some challenging hills along the way. 

Unfortunately you cannot get right onto the headland as this is now home to the Old Head of Kinsale Golf Links, but you can still enjoy incredible views of the Atlantic ocean from the high sea cliffs along the way. 

Add a stop at the newly established Lusitania Museum to absorb the tragic history of the Lusitania. A luxury steamship that was sunk by a German U Boat which paved the way for America to enter World War 1. The museum is housed in the 200 year old Signal Tower that has been restored to its former glory.