EXPERIENCE THE ADVENTURE
Kerry
Climbing MacGillycuddy's Reeks (Gaelic: Na Cruacha Dubha, meaning ‘The Black Stacks’) stretch slightly over 19km, encompassing approx. 100sq km and include the highest peaks in Ireland and the only peaks on the island that are over 1,000 metres (3,300 ft). The highest of these is Corrán Tuathail/Carrauntoohil (1,038 m), followed by Binn Chaorach/Beenkeragh (1,010 m) and Cathair na Fianna/Caher (1,001 m). The range also includes many other peaks of over 2,000 ft.
They are extremely rugged with fine knife-edged ridges, high cliffs and fast running rivers. During the last two Ice Ages approx. 300,000 – 130,000 and 80,000 to 10,000 years ago the highest peaks of The Reeks projected above the ice and hence were subject to severe ice weathering. This, along with erosion over time, has resulted in the jagged appearance seen today. Kerry hosts a rich heritage with stories, myths and legends at every turn. This is what attracts the great escaper to this awe-inspiring area. The South West region is now also recognised as the ‘Adventure Capital of Ireland’ and that is what attracts the outdoor enthusiast! If you are planning a day’s hiking or are taking on the challenge of Corrán Tuathail and you are inexperienced, or you just wish to get a much more enriched experience then you must spend a day with the premier and leading guiding company KerryClimbing. Perhaps it has been on your bucket list for just too long now? If so, it’ll be the highlight of your trip, so, of course, it’s vitally important to select the very best guiding company. KerryClimbing is an award-winning company and has been regularly rated No. 1 out of all outdoor activities in the Killarney area on Tripadvisor! They will ensure that you leave with the greatest of memories, most rewarding experience, incredible stories, and new likeminded friends. Family-run and locally operated by husband-andwife team Catherine and Piaras Kelly, KerryClimbing have a small niche team of the very best, most experienced and competent, most truly passionate and of course not to mention, the best “craic” guides
40 I KILLARNEY Magazine 2022
