A full scale map can be obtained from the Allihies Copper Mine Museum, a guided tour can also be arranged. Inquire within for more details

Walk Details

  • Starting point: Allihies Copper Mine Museum, Allihies, Co Cork
  • Difficulty:  Moderate difficulty, some areas are pram friendly.
  • Distance: 11kms
  • Time: 2hrs – 3hrs
  • Terrain  Type: Minor roads, coastline, hillside tracks.
  • Grid Reference: OS Sheet 84, V586 448

   Directions:

The walks start at the Allihies Copper Mine Museum. Follow the public road down to Ballydonegan beach, then follow the coast line. The route rejoins the public road for 400 metres. At this location you can return to Allihies Villlage or rise up the mountain track to Berehaven Copper Mines which are now disused. At the top of the hill you pass the famous North Engine Building. The route then meanders past numerous disused mines using part of the public road at Kealoge. In this area you have the choice to return to your car via the company scout track or continue for another 3 hours up through Cahermeeleboe. The route then joins a very quiet country road for 1.5 Kilometres. At Kilkinnkin West the route travels along the Old Mass Road which linked Cahermore Church with the Allihies Village. Walkers will drop down to the coast line at Ballydonegan Bay and join the Beara Way back to the Allihies Copper Mine Museum.

  Features:

You’ll pass the beautiful coastline and then work your way towards Mountain Mine.  At the top of the hill you have fantastic views of Ballydonegan Bay to the North and Bantry Bay to the South. The Copper Mine Trail is a fascinating marked walking route that takes in the mines, man-made reservoirs, gunpowder magazine and Ballydonegan Beach, and offers spectacular mountain and sea views. Maps are available at the Museum.

  • Never walk alone, tell people where you are going and when you’ll return.

  • Familiarize yourself as much as possible with the route in advance, bring an appropriate map with you, contact the Allihies Copper Mine Museum to get advice on the routes.

  • Always follow the correct way marker signs when on your route.

  • Come prepared, wear comfortable durable hiking boots or shoes,  a backpack  with rain gear , torch, blanket, socks, sufficient food, plenty of water or fluids , and an extra power-bank for your mobile phone.

  • Please consider the environment, don’t leave any rubbish lying around, leave as you found!

  • If there is an emergency please call 999 or 112, check the weather forecast before you plan your hike.