Discover Beautiful Kerry in Ireland

The county of Kerry is one of the most beautiful places in Ireland.

The whole of Ireland is beautiful, there is no denying it, but have you been to Kerry?

Kerry County is known for the highest mountain in Ireland: Carrantuo hill (at 1,040 meters 3,414 feet) as well as the beautiful lakes of Killarney. The beautiful coastline and beaches of the county are a famous stop for travelers from all over the world.

The famous 'Ring of Kerry'

Furthermore, there is the beautiful ‘Ring of Kerry’ drive which stretches from Killarney all the way through towns like Kenmare, Sneem, Waterville, Cahersiveen, Caherdaniel, Glenbeigh, and Killorglin. This 179 km scenic drive takes you through moorland and beautiful places; without stops or traffic, it will take about 3 hours.

So you can do this as a day trip, but we suspect you, like us, would need more time to take in all of its beauty…

The Ring of Kerry in Ireland is packed with natural wonders and historical sites. Here’s what you can expect:

McGillycuddy Reeks: These mountains form the highest mountain range in Ireland, offering breathtaking views and opportunities for hiking and adventure. Standing tall, they provide a picturesque backdrop to the surrounding landscapes.
Killarney National Park: Spanning over 25,000 acres, this park is a paradise for nature lovers. Within its boundaries lie serene lakes, dense forests rich in flora and fauna, and enchanting waterfalls. You can explore the park by foot, bike, or even horse-drawn carriage.
Kerry Cliffs: Prepare to be mesmerized by the awe-inspiring views of the Atlantic Ocean from the Kerry Cliffs. These rugged cliffs soar high above the crashing waves, providing a perfect vantage point to admire the raw beauty of the coastline.

Skellig Michael: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Skellig Michael is a remote island with a fascinating history. It was once home to a secluded early Christian monastery, perched precariously on its steep cliffs. Today, visitors can explore the ruins and marvel at the island’s rugged beauty and abundant birdlife.

Along the way you might want to stop at a few popular tourist spots for spectacular photo opportunities:

On the edge of Lough Leane, in Killarney National Park you will find Ross Castle.
At the base of Torc Mountain in the Killarney National Park is the beautiful Torc Waterfall. It is just a five-minute walk off the N71 Killarney Kenmare road.
Visit the beautiful beaches of Caherdaniel. Derrynane Beach is definitely worth a stop.
Stop at the little village of Portmagee.
Killorglin – views of Valentia Island and Skellig Michael (a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996).

Travel Trivia

In December 2012, Portmagee was awarded the Fáilte Ireland National Tourism Town Award, the first town to receive the award.

But let’s get back to Kerry County…

How far is Kerry from Dublin?

Going on a self-drive trip by car is an excellent way to explore Ireland. Many travelers fly to Dublin and then explore from there.

By car, it is about a 3 to 4-hour drive (depending on where you stop along the way / if you stop along the way, and how many times you stop to do sightseeing). After all the whole idea of a road trip is to stop along the way at all the pretty places. If you want to make it a self-drive trip, why not book accommodation and stay a night or two?

Where to stop? It all depends on which route you take but Limerick, Killaloe, Adare, and Cork are all popular stops along the way.

Here are a few interesting suggestions for accommodation:

Where to stay in Limerick

Where to stay in Killaloe

Where to stay in Adare

Where to stay in Cork

International airport

Ireland has 5 International Airports:

Dublin Airport on the east coast
Cork Airport on the south coast
Shannon Airport on the west coast
Knock Airport in the North West
Belfast Airport in the North East.

On which airport to use, will all depend on where you want to go in Ireland: Maybe taking a self-drive tour or booking a group organized tour (see below all the necessary links to easily organize from your device).

Things to do

Golfing: Kerry County is home to some of the best golf courses in Ireland, including Ballybunion Golf Club, Tralee Golf Club, and Waterville Golf Club.
Fishing: With its abundant rivers and lakes, Kerry County provides ample opportunities for fishing. Whether you’re an experienced angler or just starting out, you’ll find plenty of spots to cast your line and reel in a catch. The rivers and lakes here are known for their diverse fish population, including salmon, trout, and more.
Kayaking: Explore the stunning coastline of Kerry County by kayaking its tranquil waters. Whether you choose to paddle along the lakes of Killarney National Park, navigate the gentle currents of the Kenmare River, or venture out into the open sea at Dingle Bay, kayaking offers a unique perspective of the region’s natural wonders.
Surfing: Kerry County’s beaches provide excellent conditions for surfing, making it a popular destination for wave riders of all levels. Whether you’re a beginner looking to catch your first wave or an experienced surfer seeking thrills, you’ll find suitable breaks along the coast. Inch Beach, Maharees Beach, and Banna Strand are among the top spots known for their consistent waves and stunning scenery, making them ideal for surfing adventures.

Where to stay

..in Kerry Ireland

Kerry County offers a diverse range of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s preferences and budget. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious hotel with all the amenities, a charming historic castle steeped in heritage, a cozy bed and breakfast for a personal touch, or a self-catering cottage for a more independent stay, you’ll find it all in Kerry. The best place to stay really does depend on what you’re looking for in terms of comfort, atmosphere, and convenience. It’s all about finding the perfect fit for your needs and preferences while exploring the stunning landscapes and attractions of Kerry County.