Healy Pass Ireland
A dramatic, winding single-lane mountain pass connecting Cork and Kerry, offering breathtaking vistas and a glimpse into Ireland's rugged beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Healy Pass Ireland
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A dramatic, winding single-lane mountain pass connecting Cork and Kerry, offering breathtaking vistas and a glimpse into Ireland's rugged beauty.
"The views are breathtaking on both sides of the pass, it wasn't busy at all on a Sunday."
Drive with Caution 🚘
Single-lane road with sharp turns. Look far ahead for oncoming traffic and be ready to pull over.
Embrace the Sheep 🐑
Watch out for sheep on the road! They have right of way.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Mountain Vistas
Experience sweeping views of rugged mountains, serene lakes, and rolling green hills. A true feast for the eyes.
The Winding Single-Lane Road
An exhilarating drive through the Caha Mountains, connecting Cork and Kerry counties. Thrilling and scenic!
Free-Roaming Sheep
Encounter Ireland's iconic sheep grazing freely along the pass. A charming and authentic rural sight.
Healy Pass Waterfall & Tunnel
Discover a picturesque waterfall and a unique tunnel along this dramatic route. A hidden gem!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Healy Pass
Best Views & Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Drive with Caution 🚘
Single-lane road with sharp turns. Look far ahead for oncoming traffic and be ready to pull over.
Embrace the Sheep 🐑
Watch out for sheep on the road! They have right of way.
Pull-Over Spots Galore 🐴
Plenty of places to stop, park, and enjoy the breathtaking views.
Pack a Picnic 🍲
Enjoy a meal with a view on the many rocks along the pass.
Tips
from all over the internet
Drive with Caution 🚘
Single-lane road with sharp turns. Look far ahead for oncoming traffic and be ready to pull over.
Embrace the Sheep 🐑
Watch out for sheep on the road! They have right of way.
Pull-Over Spots Galore 🐴
Plenty of places to stop, park, and enjoy the breathtaking views.
Pack a Picnic 🍲
Enjoy a meal with a view on the many rocks along the pass.
Check the Weather 🌧️
Fog and low clouds can obscure views, but also add to the dramatic atmosphere.
Connects Cork & Kerry 🇮🇪
A scenic route linking two beautiful counties, perfect for road trips.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Healy Pass for its absolutely breathtaking scenery and dramatic mountain vistas. Many highlight the joy of encountering free-roaming sheep and the thrill of navigating the unique single-lane road. While some find the driving challenging, the overwhelming sentiment is that it's a must-see for its stunning natural beauty and historical significance.
"In my opinion this is a must see in Ireland. The views are breathtaking on both sides of the pass, it wasn't busy at all on a Sunday. The sheep are free roaming and I even got approached by a tiny lamb. Lots of spots to pull over and park and plenty of rocks to picnic on. Loved it."
Agnès Lys Granier (Lys)
"We took Healy From Ardgroom Stone Circle to Gelngariff/Bantry area. We were supposed to backtrack for Caha and totally forgot! I was upset but we got it in our 2nd trip. Both were gorgeous! Caha is more stunning in my opinion, but Healy is gorgeous in its own right. I'm glad I eventually saw both. Sept 5, 2024."
A J (Lexi)
"9 years ago we honey-mooned across Ireland and then went to Italy. Loved Healy Pass so much."
Shelby Palazzolo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Healy Pass is located on the Beara Peninsula, straddling the border of County Cork and County Kerry. The most common way to access it is by car, as part of a road trip through the Wild Atlantic Way or the Ring of Beara. It's a single-lane road, so be prepared for a slower pace. 
While beautiful, Healy Pass is a narrow, winding single-lane road. If you're new to driving on the left, it can be challenging. Many visitors recommend it but advise caution and awareness of oncoming traffic.
Public transport directly to Healy Pass is limited. It's best explored with a rental car. Alternatively, consider joining a guided tour that includes the Healy Pass as part of a larger itinerary for the Ring of Beara or Killarney region.
The pass connects the R571 in County Cork to the R572 in County Kerry. Many travelers enjoy driving it in either direction, with some preferring the views from Cork to Kerry.
No, Healy Pass is part of the Ring of Beara, a less crowded but equally stunning scenic drive in County Cork and Kerry. It's often visited in conjunction with Killarney National Park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Healy Pass is a public road and there are no entrance fees or tickets required to drive or visit. It's a natural scenic route open to everyone.
As a public road, Healy Pass is accessible 24/7. However, daylight hours are best for enjoying the views and driving safely.
There is no admission fee for Healy Pass. It's a free-to-access scenic drive through the Irish countryside.
Visiting on a weekday, especially in the morning, is generally less crowded. Early spring or late autumn can also offer fewer visitors.
The main consideration is the single-lane nature of the road. Large vehicles may find it challenging, and drivers should be mindful of sheep and other traffic.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
There are numerous pull-off points along the pass offering spectacular views. Look for designated parking areas to safely admire the panoramic vistas of the mountains and lakes.
While the primary attraction is the drive, there are opportunities for short walks and exploring the surrounding hills. Be mindful of the terrain and weather conditions.
Expect to see stunning mountain landscapes, serene lakes like Glanmore Lake, free-roaming sheep, and potentially a waterfall and tunnel.
Pedestrians should exercise extreme caution due to the narrow, winding road and passing vehicles. Stick to the sides where possible and be highly aware of your surroundings.
Wear comfortable walking shoes and layers of clothing, as the weather can change quickly. Waterproofs are advisable.
📸 📸 Photography
Anywhere with a clear view! The pull-off points offer incredible panoramic shots. Look for dramatic skies, the winding road, and the sheep. The waterfall and tunnel are also great subjects.
Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best light for photography, with golden hour casting a warm glow. However, dramatic foggy conditions can also create unique, moody shots.
Drone usage is generally permitted in open areas, but always check local regulations and be respectful of private property and wildlife. The aerial views are spectacular!
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife like sheep. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
The iconic winding road itself, the sheep grazing, the reflections in the lakes, and the dramatic mountain backdrops are all prime photo opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider making it a part of a larger day trip from Killarney, perhaps combining it with a visit to Torc Waterfall or Muckross House. Ensure children are safely secured in car seats and that you have plenty of entertainment for any longer stretches of driving. The stunning views and the novelty of the sheep make it a worthwhile, albeit potentially challenging, family excursion.
🚗 Road Trippers & Photographers
Drone pilots will find the aerial perspectives here incredible, offering a unique way to showcase the rugged beauty of the Beara Peninsula. Remember to be mindful of the sheep and other drivers, and always prioritize safety when stopping for photos. The Healy Pass is a highlight for many Irish road trips, often mentioned alongside the Ring of Kerry for its raw, untamed beauty.
+1⛰️ Hikers & Nature Lovers
Be prepared for variable weather conditions and wear appropriate hiking gear. The serene lakes and mountain views provide a peaceful backdrop for any outdoor activity. Remember to respect the environment and leave no trace. The chance to encounter free-roaming sheep adds a unique element to the natural experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Healy Pass: A Drive Through History and Scenery
As you navigate the single-lane, winding road, you'll be treated to unparalleled views. The landscape is characterized by rugged mountains, serene lakes like Glanmore Lake, and vast expanses of green countryside. Free-roaming sheep are a common and charming sight, often found grazing right by the roadside. The pass also features a notable waterfall and a tunnel, adding to its unique appeal.
Travelers often describe the Healy Pass as one of Ireland's most beautiful and dramatic drives. While it can be challenging for inexperienced drivers due to its narrowness and sharp turns, the rewards are immense. The sense of accomplishment and the sheer beauty of the surroundings make it a must-do for many visiting the region.
Driving the Healy Pass: Tips for a Smooth Journey
Be prepared for sheep! These woolly residents have right of way and are often found grazing on or near the road. Always give them plenty of space and avoid startling them. The pass also offers numerous pull-off points and small parking areas, perfect for stopping to take photos, have a picnic, or simply soak in the scenery.
For those who might find the driving daunting, consider alternative ways to experience the Healy Pass. Some tours of the Ring of Beara may include this route, allowing you to enjoy the views without the stress of driving. Regardless of how you choose to experience it, the Healy Pass promises an unforgettable journey through some of Ireland's most spectacular landscapes.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit