Caoinkeen is not far from the Kilgarvan-Bantry road but has a very remote feel to it. The summit offers fine views in all directions, locally to the Caha and Shehy mountains and further afield to south Kerry. The views down to the corrie lake on the nothern flanks are pretty decent too.
NE. Park near W02239 65755 A and take the track to the SW. When you reach the lake head NW steeply to approx. W01132 65614 B and then head up a vague valley to the col at W00399 65324 C. From here head directly for the summit but it might be worth keeping left as you do so as to gain fine views of Lough Akinkeen and its cliffs. Allow 1hr.
Be careful of the steep ground to the north of the summit in poor weather.
E. Park at approx. W03929 64876 D and head up the E spur of Caoinkeen. The going is steep for about 1 km but then eases as you approach the first of three lakes before getting slightly steeper for the final pull up to the summit. Allow 45 min+
S. Caoinkeen can also be reached via Knockboy. The ridge between the two hills is a little over 3 km and the going is relatively easy and pleasant.
NW. There is also an easy ridge walk over from Knocknamanagh. This is approx. 2.5km.
Notable tracks include track/3037 and for those who enjoy a longer hike track/3100. Linkback: https://mountainviews.ie/summit/120/comment/4880/