Satellite map of Caha Pass

Munster · Ireland

Caha Pass

N71Kenmare to Glengarriff

Distance16.8 mi27 km
Drive time34 minon the road
DifficultyModeratetightness 5 of 10
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A rock-tunnelled pass between Kerry and Cork.

The N71 over the Caha Pass links Kenmare and Glengarriff, the road blasted through the bare rock of the Caha Mountains in a series of short tunnels with views over Bantry Bay. Atmospheric and twisting; mind the narrow tunnels, oncoming traffic, and tour buses in summer.

Scenery

MountainCoast

Best seasons

SpringSummerAutumn

In these collections

In these Grand Tours

Where it runs16.8 mi · point to point

KenmareStart · Munster
GlengarriffEnd · Munster

Character

Corners30bends
Tightness5of 10
Max gradient8%≈ 1-in-13
Climb328 mtotal ascent
Summit328.9 mhighest point of the line · 1,079 ft

Corners

busiest around mile 10
4813 mi

Elevation

under 4%4–8%over 8%4.1 – 328.9 m
summit · 328.9 m 100200300 m 0817 mi

From the road

Points of interest2 stops

  • Druid’s ViewViewpoint
    8.8 mi in
  • The Three MusiciansLandmark
    0.7 mi in

Hazards

  • Narrow rock tunnels
  • Oncoming traffic
  • Tour buses in summer

Sources

Verified route: mapped from real road geometry and fact-checked by a human editor. How roads get checked

Driving the Caha Pass: quick answers

How long does it take to drive the Caha Pass?
Caha Pass runs 16.8 miles (27 km) and takes about 34 min to drive without stops.
How difficult is the Caha Pass to drive?
We rate it moderate: 30 corners, a maximum gradient of 8%, and a tightness of 5 out of 10.
When is the best time to drive the Caha Pass?
Spring and Summer and Autumn are best.

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