The Ring of Kerry is one of Ireland’s most scenic coastal drives. Charming fishing villages, waterfalls, and beaches line the coastline of this peninsula in County Kerry. There are many things to do in the Ring of Kerry, from cycling and stargazing to listening to traditional Irish music in a welcoming pub. This loop is also the gateway to destinations such as Skellig Michael—a rugged island famous for its perfectly-preserved Christian monastery—and Valentia Island, one of Ireland’s most westerly points. Visit to experience the best of Ireland’s watersports, hiking, and historic landmarks.
Summer is the most popular season to visit the Ring of Kerry, especially for international visitors. That said, this coastal route can feel crowded during the peak months of July and August. To skip the crowds, visit the Ring of Kerry during spring (March-May) or fall (September-November) instead. Annual events such as the Ring of Kerry Charity Cycle in July and the Kerry Film Festival in October are worth coinciding your visit with.
A rental car is the best way to get around the Ring of Kerry—they let you stop at a whim to snap pictures of beaches, cliffs, and historic landmarks. Cycling is also a popular way to get around. Some visitors bring their own bikes, or bikes are available to rent. If you’d prefer not to drive and to admire scenery instead, opt for a driving tour from the nearby towns of Kenmare and Killarney. Horse-and-carriage tours are also an option.
The Ring of Kerry is home to the Kerry International Dark-Sky Reserve, an area known for its stargazing potential. The lack of light pollution makes this part of Ireland an especially clear place to view the stars. You might also want to explore another nearby driving loop, the Ring of Beara, which offers an alternative scenic drive that can be less crowded during the peak summer season.
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Yes, the Ring of Kerry is definitely worth visiting. It’s one of the top destinations in County Kerry and is known for dramatic coastal views of waterfalls, seaside villages, secluded beaches, and historic landmarks. This route in Ireland is popular for both driving and cycling.
...MoreThe Ring of Kerry is a circular, coastal route with several top landmarks. Go for a scenic drive and stop at Ladies View, Ross Castle, Torc Waterfall, Derrynane Beach, and the fishing village of Kells. The larger towns of Kenmare and Killarney are also worth a visit.
...MoreYou need at least two days to explore the Ring of Kerry by car, and at least three if you’re cycling. Many visitors spend one week or more in County Kerry, and find plenty of things to do—from hiking and biking to kayaking and visiting charming pubs.
...MoreNo, Ring of Kerry is not better than Dingle, the two are similar. Both are in County Kerry, in the southwest of Ireland, on scenic peninsulas that jut out into the Atlantic Ocean and offer excellent views. Both offer access to charming villages, beaches, and outdoor activities.
...MoreYes, it is possible to complete the Ring of Kerry in one day. But this 111-mile (179-kilometer) drive offers many scenic places to explore, so it’s better to spread the drive across two days or more. Slower travel lets you see waterfalls, beaches, and fishing villages.
...MoreThe Ring of Kerry and Cliffs of Moher are very different. The Cliffs of Moher are a single landmark of coastal cliffs, while the Ring of Kerry is a circular, coastal driving route comprising beaches, waterfalls, fishing villages, and charming pubs. Both are worth visiting.
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