Discover Beautiful Kerry In Ireland (Ring Of Kerry Roadtrip)

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'

The famous ‘Ring of Kerry’ drive 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.

Fabulous Photo Opportunities:

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 road trip 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.

Spoil yourself with a luxury stay

WHY WE RECOMMEND: Parknasilla Resort & Spa is pure luxury in a stunning setting, with panoramic views of Kenmare Bay and the Kerry Mountains. The spa, outdoor hot tubs, and 9-hole golf course add to the charm, while the elegant interiors and endless activities make it a perfect retreat on the Ring of Kerry. Book now >>

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.

Which airport you choose depends on where you’re headed in Ireland. If you’re planning a self-drive trip, pick an airport that makes sense for your route. If you’re joining a group tour, check which airport works best for your starting point. (Links below to make planning easy.)

3 Unique things to do:

1. Skellig Ring Drive & Kerry Cliffs

Take a detour off the main route to the Skellig Ring, a hidden gem with dramatic coastal views. Stop at the Kerry Cliffs, towering 300 meters above the Atlantic, for breathtaking panoramas of the Skellig Islands—a filming location for Star Wars.

2. Explore Valentia Island

Drive across the bridge at Portmagee or take the ferry from Cahersiveen to Valentia Island. Visit the Tetrapod Trackway, one of the world’s oldest fossilized footprints, or climb to the Bray Head Tower for stunning coastal views.

3. Walk the Derrynane House & Beach Trails

Visit Derrynane House, the historic home of Irish political leader Daniel O’Connell, then explore the nearby Derrynane Beach, one of Ireland’s most beautiful stretches of sand, surrounded by wild coastal scenery and walking trails through dunes and woodlands.

More 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.

Top 5 best places to stay - Ring of 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.

Find incredible things to do worldwide. Book now!

For a self-drive trip around the Ring of Kerry, the best places to stay depend on how much driving you want to do in a day. Here are some great options:

1. Killarney – Best Base for Convenience

Killarney is the most popular starting point, with plenty of hotels, guesthouses, and pubs. It’s close to Killarney National Park, making it easy to explore before or after your Ring of Kerry drive. (Book your stay in Killarney >>)

2. Kenmare – Quieter & Charming

Kenmare is smaller than Killarney but has a cozy atmosphere with colorful streets and excellent restaurants. It’s a great stop if you want a more relaxed pace. (Book your stay in Kenmare >>)

3. Waterville – Coastal Beauty

Waterville sits right on the coast, offering stunning sea views. It’s a good mid-way stop if you want to take your time driving the Ring. (Book your stay in Waterville >>)

4. Cahersiveen – A Bit Off the Beaten Path

Cahersiveen is a great option if you prefer something quieter, with access to Valentia Island and historical sites. (Book your stay in Cahersiveen >>)

5. Sneem – A Hidden Gem

Sneem is a charming village along the route, perfect for a peaceful overnight stay. It’s small but has a few nice hotels and local restaurants. (Book your stay in Sneem >>)

Best Plan?
If you’re doing the Ring of Kerry in one day, stay in Killarney or Kenmare.
If you’re taking it slow over two days, consider staying in Waterville or Cahersiveen for a real coastal experience.