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Day Trips from Ring of Kerry

Day Trips from Ring of Kerry

Ring Of Kerry County Kerry, Ireland Travel Guide

Dingle Peninsula

Located just north of the Ring of Kerry. You can access it by driving from Killarney or Tralee. The drive from Killarney to Dingle town approximately 1.5-2 hours.

Many tour operators present combined Ring of Kerry/Dingle tours. Self-driving presents more flexibility to explore the Slea Head Drive and quieter spots at your own pace.

Planning Your Visit

  • A full day for the Slea Head loop and Dingle town. Consider an overnight stay for a relaxed pace.
  • Drive to Dingle town, explore colorful streets, shops, and harbor. Take the Slea Head Drive (clockwise recommended).
  • Stop at various viewpoints, ancient beehive huts, and beautiful beaches like Coumeenoole.
  • A tour for ease or self-drive for freedom.

Natural Escapes

Discover more of Kerry's breathtaking natural landscapes beyond the main Ring.

Skellig Michael

A major natural and historical escape. A full day for the boat trip and exploration, weather permitting.

Unique Experience

  • Its remote location and ancient monastery.
  • A truly unique historical and natural wonder.
  • Booking well in advance for boat tours.

Other Natural Wonders

Killarney National Park and its trails. Expansive beaches like Rossbeigh, Derrynane, and Ballinskelligs.

Panoramic Views

  • Coastal walks, swimming, or quiet picnics at beaches.
  • Geokaun Mountain & Fogher Cliffs on Valentia Island.
  • Incredible panoramic views of the Skelligs, Bray Head, and the Wild Atlantic Way coastline.

Gap of Dunloe

Modes of Transport

  • Walk or cycle through the pass.
  • Take a Pony and trap (jaunting car).
  • Private car access generally restricted during peak season.
  • Consider a combination boat trip through the lakes.

Time and Experience

  • Half to full day for exploration.
  • A peaceful experience with alternative transport.
  • Features dramatic scenery.
  • An iconic Kerry experience.

Excursion Information

  • Dingle Drive Time:1.5-2 hours from Killarney
  • Skellig Michael Tour Duration:Full day, weather dependent
  • Gap of Dunloe:Half to full day
  • Beara Peninsula Access:By car from Kenmare
  • Dingle Self-Drive:High flexibility
  • Skellig Michael Booking:Far in advance
  • Gap of Dunloe Restriction:Private cars peak season
  • Beara Peninsula Tourist Level:Less touristy, more rugged

Planning Day Trips

Always confirm opening times, accessibility, and booking requirements for excursions, especially during peak season or for weather-dependent activities like Skellig Michael.

Cultural Excursions

Explore Kerry's rich history and traditional life.

Kenmare Stone Circle

Easily accessible from Kenmare. This Bronze Age site has a glimpse into ancient ritualistic practices and features a quiet, atmospheric location.

Kerry Bog Village Museum

A vivid glimpse into traditional Irish rural life, showing reconstructed cottages and the history of peat harvesting. It establishes a tangible connection to the past.

Derrynane House

Ancestral home of Daniel O'Connell, "The Liberator." The house museum and its beautiful coastal gardens yield insight into a pivotal period in Irish history.

Historical Sites

Explore ancient forts and significant historical homes.

Prominent Locations

  • Staigue Fort: Well-preserved ancient stone fort.
  • Cahergal & Leacanabuaile Forts: Ring forts near Cahersiveen.
  • Derrynane House: Home of Daniel O'Connell.

Living History

Step back in time at museums depicting rural Irish life.

Cultural Insights

  • Kerry Bog Village Museum: Reconstructed cottages and peat history.
  • Muckross Traditional Farms: Depict 1930s/40s farm life.
  • Skellig Experience Centre: Interactive exhibits on Skellig Michael.

Cultural Immersion

Attend traditional music sessions.Experience local 'craic' in pubs.
Visit artisan shops for local crafts.Support local artists and heritage.
Explore small villages.Discover unique regional charm.
Discover ancient ruins.Connect with historical narratives.
Enjoy local festivals.Immerse in community spirit.
Taste regional cuisine.A culinary journey.

Deepening Your Experience

  • Engage with locals in pubs and shops.
  • Seek out independent businesses for authentic crafts.
  • Learn a few basic Irish phrases for connection.
  • Research local festivals or events during your visit.
  • Consider guided historical walking tours.

Multi-Day Extensions

The Ring of Kerry a perfect starting point for longer explorations of Ireland's west coast.

Wild Atlantic Way Road Trip

1

Route Connection

The Ring of Kerry forms a celebrated part of the Wild Atlantic Way, a 2,500 km scenic coastal route. Extending your trip to explore more of this route a logical next step.

2

Next Destinations

Explore the less-traveled Beara Peninsula, the charming towns of West Cork, the gourmet capital of Kinsale, and Cork City itself.

3

Transportation

Car rental ideal for exploring the Wild Atlantic Way, offering flexibility to stop at countless viewpoints and small villages.

Suggested Routes for Longer Regional Travel

  • South West Ireland Loop (7-10 days): Start in Dublin, then head to Killarney (2-3 days for the Ring of Kerry and Killarney National Park).
  • Continue to the Dingle Peninsula (2 days).
  • Explore Cork City and Kinsale (2 days) before returning to Dublin.
  • Full Wild Atlantic Way (2-3 weeks): This ambitious trip involves driving the entire route.
  • Starting from Donegal in the north or Cork in the south.
  • It establishes comprehensive immersion in Ireland's coastal beauty and culture.

Additional Connections

  • Buses connect major towns.
  • A car has more freedom for exploration.
  • Consider linking with Northern Ireland for a broader trip.
  • Explore national parks beyond Kerry.
  • Deep dive into specific cultural elements.
  • Extend stay for hiking or water sports.

Planning Extensions

Accommodation & Tours

Research and book accommodations and essential tours in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid disappointment.

Transportation

A rental car has flexibility for exploring the Wild Atlantic Way.

Flexibility

Bus connections exist, but a car has more freedom for discovery.

Seasonal Planning

Multi-day extensions require careful planning. Book well in advance during peak season for accommodation and specific tours.
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