Fastnet Trails
Fastnet Trails
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Fastnet Trails

The Fastnet Trails project started in 2015 with loop walks in the Kilcoe and Lisheen area. These were soon connected to Ballydehob and then Schull. Later, loop walks starting in Schull were extended. In 2018, a short loop walk was established from Altar Church in Toormore and in 2019 new loop walks starting at Toormore and Goleen Trailheads were added. Over the years a number of linear walks were added and in 2024 a new trail head was established in Skibbereen. This means that the walks collective known as the "Fastnet Trails" now extend all the way from Skibbereen to near the Mizen Head.
The Fastnet Trails are principally located on the southern side of the Mizen Peninsula from Skibbereen in the east to Goleen and Crookhaven in the west and many of the trails are on quiet country roads so they are accessible in all weather conditions. In 2024, there are eight Trailheads – these are places where you can park the car, study a map board and embark on a waymarked walk.
2015
Project start
8
Trailheads
18
Loop Walks
5
Linear Walks
Fastnet Trails

Trailheads

There are eight Fastnet Trails Trailheads spread along the Mizen Peninsula from the eastern ones at Skibbereen, Lisheen and Kilcoe through Ballydehob, to the more westerly ones at Schull, Toormore (Altar) and two in Goleen. As the trails evolve it is now possible to join them up and you will see the Fastnet Trails weaving its way from Skibbereen to Goleen and beyond.

Fastnet Trails

Walks

There are 17 Loop Walks and 5 Linear Walks (both directions). Each trail listed below has a hyperlink to its Trailhead, where it begins, and to a map of the trail and a description of the walk. Other information follows including the distance, the approximate time and level of difficulty.
Fastnet Trails

Grading

Fastnet Trails uses the Sports Ireland's walking trail grading system to categorise walks. The grades used are:
Easy: Generally flat trails with a smooth surface and some gentle slopes or shallow steps. These trails are generally suitable for family groups including children and the elderly. Normal outdoor footwear can be worn.
Moderate: These trails may have some climbs and may have an uneven surface where the going is rough underfoot with some obstacles such as protruding roots, rocks, etc. The routes are appropriate for people with a moderate level of fitness and some walking experience. Specific outdoor walking footwear and clothing is recommended.
Strenuous: These are physically demanding trails, which will typically have some sections with steep climbs for long periods and the going underfoot can be extremely rough including many obstacles. Suitable for users accustomed to walking on rough ground and with a high level of fitness. Specific outdoor walking footwear and clothing required.
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Fastnet Trails

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The purpose of this website is simple: to provide walkers with a resource where they can see all the Fastnet Trails in one place and access the walks either in electronic format on their mobile devices or even as PDF walk guides to guide them on their journey. Note that Fastnet Trails Leaflets are available in many shops and tourist offices and these contain route maps and information.
Fastnet Trails

About us & Acknowledgements

The Fastnet Trail Committee is comprised of 15 volunteers, many of whom are retired and bring a lifetime’s worth of experience and expertise coupled with energy and a willingness to give their time. In addition, trail development was greatly helped by the Rural Recreation Officers who were there from inception to launching of many of the walks. As the trails increased over a wider area, it was necessary to establish a committee to coordinate our collective efforts. In addition to managing the establishment, monitoring and maintenance of the walks, the Committee also liaises both locally with land owners and nationally with funding bodies such as Sport Ireland, Cork Community Council and local community councils. The Rural Social Scheme workers are essential for much of the ongoing maintenance. The Committee has also worked closely with West Cork Development Programme, which has given great help for development and funding from ORIS grants from the Department of Community and Rural Development.

A special word of thanks is due to Patricia Bevan, formerly of the West Cork Development Programme and Finola and Robert Finley of the Roaringwater Journal for their generous help with photographs.
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