Tomies & Purple Mountain are two distinct hills overlooking the township of Killarney in the south west of Ireland. They are situated adjacent to Kate Kearney's Cottage in the Gap of Dunloe, one of the region's most popular tourist attractions. Although a strenuous hike, these two hills coupled with a return walk through the Gap of Dunloe make for a breathtaking adventure that no avid walker should miss.

Driving directions:

From Killarney take the Killorglin Road westward for 9 kilometres to Beaufort bridge. Go over the bridge and through the village of Beaufort to the crossroads. Follow the signs towards the Gap of Dunloe and park at the Kate Kearny's Cottage car park.

Track notes:

From the carpark walk north along the road past the craft shop. Cross over the bridge and continue up the road for a couple of hundred metres. Watch for a steel gate on your right. Go through the gate and walk along the dirt road as it turns sharply left then right. Continue on up the hill with views of the Gap of Dunloe on your right. Eventually you will come to a green shed, also on your right. Climb over the gate and battle your way through the thick prickly growth to the fence at the apposite end of the field. Climb through the fence and head up the open hillside. Eventually the terrain levels out revealing your first views of Tomies and Purple Mountain. The gap of Dunloe is to your right with the Macgillycuddys beyond. This is a great spot for a welcome short break before tackling Tomies Mountain, your next task.

Follow the well defined track down to the col at the base of Tomies Mountain. Climb the 200 metre scree slope to the summit where the remains of a large rock shelter can be found. Another short break is in order before descending the apposite side of Tomies in preparation for the Purple Mountain ascent. The track leads up the ridge and views of the Killarney National Park are seen to your left. The summit is marked with three cairns and another stone shelter. The third cairn marks the summit. Don't forget the camera for your ever increasing collection of summit photos.

The track leading off Purple Mountain can be a bit hard to follow at times but if you have a clear day there are a few landmarks in the valley below that will help you to navigate.

Make your way down the mountain to the south-south west over loose rocks down the spur towards Glas Lough. The track become easier to follow as you descend. Follow the remains of an old wire fence down to the lough. Continue past the lough where you will find convenient places to fill the water bottles. Continue further downhill following an old stone wall. Keep a look out on your right for a track and the remains of another old fence. This track leads down to the road which is visible for the entire descent (weather permitting).

The road now needs to be followed back to Kate Kearney's Cottage. This is a beautiful 5-6 km walk in the late afternoon light and makes for an excellent finish to the adventure.