Healy Pass
Category 39.8 km
Distance
330 m
Elevation Gain
3.4%
Average Gradient
11%
Max Gradient
The Healy Pass crosses the spine of the Caha Mountains between Kerry and Cork, linking the Beara Peninsula's two coastal flanks. The ascent from the Cork side (Adrigole) is longer and more gradual; from the Kerry side (Lauragh) it is shorter but steeper, with the final approach to the cross at the summit featuring the best views of the climb. The summit cruciform stands at 334m against a backdrop that, on clear days, encompasses Bantry Bay, the Sheep's Head Peninsula, and on exceptional days the Mizen Head beyond. The Beara Peninsula is less toured than Kerry and more raw — the Healy Pass carries a fraction of the traffic of Conor Pass even in July. The road surface is adequate rather than exceptional but the experience more than compensates.
Pro Tip
The Beara Peninsula's full circuit — including Healy Pass and the Allihies copper mines coast road — makes one of the finest multi-day touring loops in Ireland at approximately 140km with 2,200m of climbing. Base yourself in Kenmare for access to both Kerry and Beara riding. The Allihies road on the western tip has near-zero traffic and Atlantic views that rival anything on the Dingle Peninsula.
Part of
Cycling in Wild Atlantic Way