Ring Of Kerry County Kerry, Ireland Travel Guide
These are the places you should prioritize visiting on your Ring of Kerry trip.
Killarney National Park: Ireland's first National Park, established in 1932, an UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Spans over 10,000 hectares of mountains, lakes, woodlands, and waterfalls. Entry to the park is free. Open year-round.
Ross Castle: A 15th-century tower house on the shores of Lough Leane. Offers guided tours seasonally (fee applies). Grounds are free to explore.
Muckross House, Gardens & Traditional Farms: A magnificent Victorian mansion, formal gardens, and reconstructed 1930s-era traditional working farms. Gardens free. House tours and farm entry have fees.
Consider GetYourGuide for booking attraction tickets.
Killarney National Park (mountains, lakes, woodlands), Muckross Gardens (formal gardens), Derrynane House Gardens (coastal feel).
Ladies View, Muckross Head, Coomakista Pass, Moll's Gap, Torc Waterfall, The Black Valley (remote glacial valley).
Killarney National Park is home to Ireland's only native herd of Red Deer. Coastal areas for birdwatching (seabirds), and marine wildlife (seals, dolphins, whales).
Rugged coastline, dramatic cliffs, sea stacks, glacial valleys, and mountains. Ballycarbery Castle for picturesque ruins.
Rossbeigh Beach, Derrynane Beach, Ballinskelligs Beach (Blue Flag). Lakes of Killarney for boat trips, fishing, and kayaking.
Venture beyond the main tourist trail to discover some of Kerry's quieter, equally captivating spots.
A narrower loop off the main Ring of Kerry. Incredibly dramatic coastal scenery and fewer crowds. Includes Kerry Cliffs, St. Finian's Bay, and the Skellig Chocolate Factory. Often more spectacular coastal views than parts of the main Ring.
A remote, winding, narrow mountain pass across the Iveragh Peninsula. A thrilling drive and stunning views away from the main tourist trail. Suitable for confident drivers and smaller vehicles. Raw, unspoiled landscape.
Often overlooked. Offers 360-degree views from Geokaun Mountain (small fee). From the summit, see the Skelligs, Bray Head, and Wild Atlantic Way coastline. A rewarding climb for panoramic photography.
A unique subtropical garden on the coast near Cahersiveen. Impressive collection of tree ferns and a suspension bridge. A surprising oasis, contrasting with the rugged landscape. Fee applies.
While Ross Castle is iconic, explore further into Ross Island itself. Walking trails and remains of historical copper mines. A less crowded area of the National Park with fascinating historical context.
A lesser-known pristine beach, perfect for quiet strolls and enjoying the coastal scenery away from the crowds.
Consider private guided tours for in-depth insights into specific landmarks or hidden areas.
The Ring offers countless photo opportunities, especially at sunrise or sunset. Ladies View and the Kerry Cliffs are favorites.
Please respect natural environments and historical sites by leaving no trace and following local guidelines.
Optimize your visits by grouping nearby attractions. Arrive early at popular sites to avoid crowds.
Explore the rich heritage of Kerry through its museums and cultural sites.
These institutions provide deep context to the region's history and natural world.
Discover the stories behind Kerry's iconic sites through engaging exhibits.
Immerse yourself in the local narratives and way of life.
Expand your historical understanding with a visit to the county museum.
The Ring of Kerry is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, offering diverse landscapes for exploration.
Killarney National Park (vast wilderness, hiking, wildlife). Muckross Gardens (formal gardens, peaceful strolls). Derrynane House Gardens (formal and wild coastal feel).
Ladies View, Muckross Head, Coomakista Pass, Moll's Gap. All offer spectacular panoramic views along the Ring of Kerry, perfect for photos. Torc Waterfall, The Black Valley for rugged beauty.
Killarney National Park hosts Ireland's only native herd of Red Deer. Coastal areas for birdwatching (seabirds). Boat trips sometimes spot seals, dolphins, and whales in Atlantic waters.
The Ring boasts stunning sandy beaches ideal for walks and relaxation.
The Lakes of Killarney provide diverse aquatic opportunities.
The rugged coastline tells a story of Earth's ancient processes.
Picturesque ruins of a 16th-century castle on an estuary.
A remote and wild glacial valley within Killarney National Park.
This dramatic mountain pass offers various modes of exploration.
For convenient booking of attraction tickets and tours, consider GetYourGuide.
This platform offers a wide range of options for landmarks and activities across the region.
Discover ancient forts, monastic settlements, and significant landmarks that tell Ireland's story.
Explore ancient defensive structures and early Irish settlements.
Wander through towns that retain the charm of centuries past.
Sites of deep historical and spiritual significance dot the landscape.
These sites connect visitors to Ireland's early Christian past.
Solemn reminders of historical events and individuals.
These serve as poignant reminders of past struggles and triumphs.
Dive into specific historical periods and themes.
These centers enhance your understanding of Kerry's heritage.
Many historical sites and museums have specific opening hours and may close for lunch or seasonally. Check in advance.
Consider joining guided tours offered at larger sites. They can historical depth and context that you might miss on your own.
For a richer experience, hire a local guide, especially for archaeological sites. Their knowledge adds to your visit.
Do not just drive the Ring. Take time to stop, walk, and explore off the main road.
The true magic often lies in the quieter detours and hidden gems.
