Beara Way Challenge

Beara Way Challenge

The Beara Way Half Marathon in County Cork takes place on Saturday 16th May 2026. The route covers 23.50 km with approximately 1100 m of climb and is rated as difficult terrain. The course is fully marked and GPS use is allowed. The event is part of the Munster Half-Marathon League.

Registration is in Castletownbere Town Centre and the route starts outside the town on the Derrintaggert Road, just past the Old Bakery Restaurant. Runners follow the Beara Way walking trail to a fire road and a mountain style at about 5 km, then leave the trail to follow a fence line up to the summit of Mish Kish. The descent reaches a forestry gate near Eyeries at about 7.5 km where runners must check in with a marshal. The route returns to the Beara Way toward Allihies, leaves again at a sheep pen near 12.5 km to climb Knockoura, then descends back to the Beara Way and returns to Castletownbere via the Urhin Valley Bridal Path. The 2026 course is presented as a new, easier route that reverses the previous direction.

Mandatory kit is Level B - Standard and includes a waterproof jacket, hat or buff, gloves, whistle, a charged mobile phone with an emergency number stored, and a foil blanket or bivvy bag. Due to potential high temperatures, carrying water is also mandatory. The final kit to be carried during the race will be confirmed at registration and random checks may be carried out; failure to have required items may result in denial of entry or disqualification.

Entry fee is €40. Entries close Friday 8th May 2026, 18:00. At prizegiving, awards are given for 1st, 2nd and 3rd males and females. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.