4.2
PDI
3.9 mi
DISTANCE
909 ft
GAINED
4.5 %
AVG. GRADE
FULL CLIMB STATS
Page Contributor(s): Ard Oostra, Montreux, Switzerland
INTRO
Healy Pass carries the R574 for about 12 kilometers over the Caha Mountains, linking Adrigole in County Cork with Lauragh in County Kerry on Ireland's Beara Peninsula. This page covers the south approach, starting in Adrigole and climbing 909 feet over 3.86 miles at a manageable 4.5% average grade to the 919-foot summit.
What makes Healy Pass stand out is the sheer number of switchbacks packed into a short climb - it's often called one of the bendiest roads in Ireland - paired with sweeping views over the Caha Mountains and, on a clear day, back toward Bantry Bay. Traffic is light outside peak summer tourist season, though the road narrows considerably near the top.
The pass has long been a fixture of Beara Peninsula cycling routes and is a popular add-on for riders doing the Ring of Beara loop.
PLAN YOUR ROUTE
We've partnered with Sherpa-Map.com to bring you the best route planning tool. With a PRO Membership you can use this climb as a reference when creating your route. The climb holds a steady average of 4.5% with no sustained pitches over 8%, making it a manageable grinder rather than a technical test - most of the elevation comes from a long, even grind up the switchbacks near the summit.
Roadway: Well-paved but narrow for most of its length, with tight switchbacks near the summit. Some stretches use a rougher chip-seal surface rather than smooth asphalt, so expect a slightly bumpier ride than the mileage alone suggests.
Traffic: Generally light - this is a quiet mountain road outside of peak summer season - but drivers share the route with walkers and other cyclists tackling the same climb, so stay alert through the tighter bends.
Parking: Limited to a few pull-outs along the route and a small lay-by at the summit that fits only one or two cars. It fills quickly on sunny days, so arrive early or late if you want to stop without blocking the road.
There are no services directly on the pass, so carry water and any nutrition you'll need before starting the climb. Adrigole has a small shop for last-minute supplies.
Before heading out on any cycling adventure check out our Things to Bring on a Cycling Trip and use our interactive check list to ensure you don't forget anything.
Many riders combine this climb with the Ring of Beara loop, continuing over the pass into County Kerry toward Lauragh, or turning around for an out-and-back. Castletownbere, a few miles from the base, has more lodging and dining options if you're staying in the area.
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