Distance: 8km
Duration: 1.5 hours
Route type: Return/Loop
Buggy/wheelchair friendly: No
Surface types: Rock Surface, Steps, Wood Trails
Points of interest: Views of McGillycuddy Reeks, Killarney National Park, Killarney Lakes

Beware of the stretch! If you’re not familiar with this trail, Cardiac Hill is a steep and difficult ascent up hundreds of steps along the slopes of Torc Mountain. Don’t let this put you off the walk because when you reach the top, feel the burn in your legs and wipe the sweat from your brow, you can reap the rewards with panoramic views of the McGillycuddy Reeks, Lakes of Killarney and Killarney National Park.

After a few deep breaths you can begin the traverse over the face of Torc, enjoying the views, nature’s fragrances and the knowledge that you don’t have to walk back down the steps! The rocky path leads down to forestry where you continue on the path until you meet a junction; turn left here and carry on down to the starting point once again.

Parking is available in the lower Torc car park or on the right hand side of the road directly after the lower car park. Cross the road and take a right along the path, you can’t miss the first steps jutting out on the left as you reach the base of the hill.