Ring of Kerry

Travel Guide
Moll\'s Gap showing tranquil scenes, landscape views and views
Visitors have taken this route through deep forest and rugged Atlantic coastline for hundreds of years.

The Ring of Kerry is a 110-mile (177-kilometer) trail through unspoiled County Kerry countryside. It winds through dense forests, over sandy beaches, along the rugged Atlantic coastline and past clear freshwater streams and tumbling waterfalls.

The Ring of Kerry has attracted visitors for centuries. Take in its breathtaking beauty and use the location as a base for outdoor pursuits, including golf, cycling, walking, running, riding and fishing.

The journey begins at Killarney town. Take a bus tour or rent a car from within the town. Many visitors prefer to go by private car to enjoy detours and stops along the way. Take the road to Killorglin and follow the signposts for “Ring.” This will lead you around the coastal road in a counterclockwise direction, which provides the most spectacular views.

You’ll come across larger towns as well as small traditional villages. Stop at Bog Village on the main road between Killorglin and Glenbeigh. This replica of a 19th-century village has displays and museum exhibits. Experience life as it was at the end of the 19th century and visit thatched cottages, hen houses, blacksmith’s quarters and an old forge.

Explore the quiet beaches and coves along the coastline, such as the long sandy beach at Derrynane Bay. Stop by one of the many seafood restaurants to try fish pie, seafood chowder and other specialities featuring local produce.

Other interesting sights along the coast include Skellig Michael, the site of an ancient Irish monastery that sits on top of a rock in the Atlantic Ocean. Take the slight detour from the main road toward Waterville to visit Valentia Island. The effects of the Gulf Stream mean the island is an unexpected haven for many subtropical plant species, which can be seen at Glanleam Gardens.

Finally, the road between Kenmare and Killarney opens onto rugged scenery, including the “Ladies' View” over Killarney Valley, one of the most photographed vistas along the route.

The Ring of Kerry is open year-round and has no fee or tolls.

Where to stay in Ring of Kerry

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Beenbane

While Beenbane isn't home to many top sights, Waterville Beach and Waterville Golf Links are some notable places to visit nearby.

Beenbane
Lansdowne Kenmare
Lansdowne Kenmare
4 out of 5
Main St, Kenmare, KY
The price is CA $192 per night from Nov. 18 to Nov. 19
CA $192
CA $218 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 18 - Nov 19
Stay at this 4-star hotel in Kenmare. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and daily housekeeping. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (62 reviews)
"Beautiful room and friendly staff."

Reviewed on Oct. 19, 2024

Lansdowne Kenmare
Sheen Falls Lodge
Sheen Falls Lodge
5 out of 5
Kenmare, Kenmare, Kerry
The price is CA $327 per night from Nov. 17 to Nov. 18
CA $327
CA $372 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 17 - Nov 18
Stay at this 5-star luxury hotel in Kenmare. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a full-service spa. Popular attractions Carraig An Cappeen and Kenmare Golf Club ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (313 reviews)
"This resort was so lovely and the staff very warm. Our only regret is that we didn’t plan to stay longer."

Reviewed on Oct. 20, 2024

Sheen Falls Lodge
The Climbers Inn
The Climbers Inn
2 out of 5
Lyranes, Glencar, Glencar
Stay at this hotel in Glencar. Enjoy free parking, cable TV channels, and housekeeping. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular attractions ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (64 reviews)
"Uniqueness and location. Convenience of the pub in the first floor was nice after hours of sightseeing. Used it as a hub for the ring of Kerry."

Reviewed on Aug. 25, 2024

The Climbers Inn
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Harbour View "The Snug Apartment" - Spectacular Sea Views (Sleeps 2 - 3 people)
Harbour View "The Snug Apartment" - Spectacular Sea Views (Sleeps 2 - 3 people)
Caherdaniel
Stay at this apartment in Caherdaniel. Enjoy a garden. Popular attractions Loher Stone Fort and Derrynane House are located nearby.
9/10 Wonderful! (32 reviews)
Great Base
"Great base to tour ring of Kerry and fabulous beach 6km down road"

Reviewed on Jul. 27, 2024

Harbour View "The Snug Apartment" - Spectacular Sea Views (Sleeps 2 - 3 people)
Traditional style cottage free WiFi short walk from Reenroe Beach Ballinskelligs
Traditional style cottage free WiFi short walk from Reenroe Beach Ballinskelligs
Ballinskelligs
Book a stay at this family-friendly cottage in Emlaghmore. Enjoy free WiFi, a garden, and patios. Popular attractions Siopa Chill Rialaig and Waterville Golf ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (94 reviews)
Large Beautiful Home.
"I love clean and this meet my expectations and more. Lots of sitting spaces, bright and light. Kitchen was well equipped. Stunning and beautiful view from living room. Highly recommended."

Reviewed on Sep. 26, 2024

Traditional style cottage free WiFi short walk from Reenroe Beach Ballinskelligs
Beautiful house Short Walk from Reenroe Beach Ballinskelligs free WiFi
Beautiful house Short Walk from Reenroe Beach Ballinskelligs free WiFi
Ballinskelligs
Book a stay at this family-friendly cottage in Emlaghmore. Enjoy a garden, cable/satellite TV service, and an in-room coffeemaker. Popular attractions Siopa ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (68 reviews)
Seabreeze
"Great!"

Reviewed on Oct. 16, 2024

Beautiful house Short Walk from Reenroe Beach Ballinskelligs free WiFi
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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Cities near Ring of Kerry