Gormú Hiking Tours
Hike Through West Cork's Hidden Trails
- Where Every Trail Tells a Tale
Embark on small-group hiking adventures that intertwine captivating storytelling, rich Irish folklore, and the vibrant flora and fauna of West Cork. Our hikes delve deep into the concept of dúchas - the intrinsic sense of belonging and connection to place. Amazing vistas, powerful stories.
Why Gormú Hiking Tours?
Discover the secret roads and storied hiking trails of West Cork on our hiking tours. Guided by locals and steeped in the traditions of West Cork, each tour is a journey through amazing scenery, folklore, history and language. Small groups, big vistas, lots storytelling and a fair few laughs along the way.
Our Difference is in the Detail
- Rooted in Place - We don’t just walk through the landscape, we walk with it. Every bóithrín, leaca and clifftop has its own story, and we share it in the context of dúchas - the Irish sense of deep belonging to place.
- Storytelling Along the Way - These are not fitness hikes or box-ticking trails. Each step is shaped by folklore, local history, placenames, and personal memory. Expect seanchas, not just scenery.
- Small Groups, Big Connection - We keep our group sizes small (usually under a dozen), making space for questions, conversation, and real connection. You’re not a number. You’re part of the scéal.
- Flavours Along the Way - Famous oat cookies, baked fresh each morning by our co-founder Celine. At the end of the hike, we gather for a cuppa and some homemade cookies - simple, warm, and shared. It’s a chance to sit, breathe, and reflect.
- Wild West Cork - Our hikes explore a quieter, lesser-known side of the Wild Atlantic Way - where choughs cry, wildflowers bloom, and ancient standing stones appear to whisper through time.
Got Hiking Questions❓ We’ve Got Answers.
How fit do I need to be?
A moderate level of fitness is sufficient. The daily Toe Head hike includes some uneven terrain but is manageable for most people. Naturally, you will need a little more fitness if you are booking a longer full day bespoke hiking tour and you can expect more challenging terrain on these full day adventures.
Are the tours suitable for beginners?
Yes, beginners are welcome. Our guides ensure a comfortable pace with plenty of breaks. If you are unsure of your fitness levels, we suggest starting with the shorter Toe Head Clifftop Hike.
Can I bring my own hiking gear?
Absolutely. We recommend appropriate footwear and weather-appropriate clothing on all our hikes.
What if it rains?
This is West Cork and we are on the Wild Atlantic Way - so the odd shower is part of the adventure! We proceed in light rain; however, in severe weather conditions, we may reschedule for safety and comfort.
Is Irish spoken on these tours?
Yes, we always try and incorporate a few Irish terms and phrases. The tours are in English and we provide translations and context of our Irish which we believe enrich your experience.