The ring of kerry is the perfect day out for families, couples and friends alike! We have done the hard work for you and chosen our top spots to stop along the ring. we would recommend starting in killarney town and heading towards kenmare, the trip takes around 3 to 4 hours, depending on how many stops you make!
1. Torc Waterfall
Torc Waterfall is situated on the outskirts of Killarney, it is a cascading waterfall at 20 metres high and 110 metres long. Ashort walk of just 200 metres brings you to the waterfall. From that point steps lead to another viewing point at a higher altitude that provides a beautiful lake view. A must-do for couples, families and friends, you won’t regret making this stop on your journey around the Ring of Kerry.
2. Ladies View
If you haven’t seen it yet, make sure to put Ladies view on your list on your journey around the Ring of Kerry! Named after Queen Victoria’s ladies-in-waiting who very much admired it, Ladies View is a viewing spot hosting panoramic views of the Gap of Dunloe, the Purple Mountain and the MacGillycuddy Reeks. Situated only 19km from Killarney, it is the perfect first stop on your trip around the Ring of Kerry, with breathtaking views on the winding roads leading you there.
3. Moll's Gap
The bendy roads of Moll’s Gap are not for the faint hearted! Moll’s Gap’s boasts some of the most dramatic views on the Ring of Kerry route. On the road between Killarney and Kenmare, Moll’s Gap boasts the ultimate view of the MacGillycuddy Reeks mountain range. It derives it’s name from Moll Kissane who set up an illicit bar here during the 19th century. Moll’s Gap is the highest point on the Ring of Kerry with a 235 metre climb. Narrow and winding roads give way to stunning scenery, that is simply unmissable.
4. Kenmare
Kenmare is a scenic little town, known as the “Little Nest” of the Wild Atlatic Way, it is approximately 40 minutes drive from Killarney. Full of colourful painted houses and shops, it is set in a beautiful location at the head of Kenmare Bay with views of the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks to the north and the Caha Mountains to the east.
5. Sneem
Sneem is a picturesque little village with stunning mountain views at every angle, the village is split in to two by the Sneem River. Stretch your legs, and give a wander around the village featuring a sculpture and a garden park, or venture a little further to the nearby coral beach, one of only two in Ireland.
6. Derrynane Beach
Derrynane beach is often described as one of the most beautiful beaches in Ireland. An extensive sandy beach, it is ideal for a stroll along the sand to breathe in that fresh sea air. It was named as one of the Top 25 Beaches in Europe by Tripadvisor in 2020 so it is definitely worth a stop! Derrynane House is also within walking distance of the beach if you fancy a look at the ancestral home of Daniel O’Connell.
7. Portmagee & The Kerry Cliffs
Portmagee is a lovely seaside village, full of fishing men and colourful houses. It is a hub of activity during the summer with locals and tourists alike, as the starting point for boat trips to the magnificent Skellig Islands. If you’re making a stop in this neck of the woods, make sure to pay a visit to the Kerry Cliffs, formed over 400 million years ago and home to breathtaking views of the Skellig Islands and the Puffin Islands. Over 1,000 feet above the ocean, they are said to be higher than the infamous Cliffs of Moher.
8. Valentia Island & Bray Head
Valentia Island is linked to the mainland and Portmagee by the Maurice O’Neill Memorial Bridge, the island is one of Ireland’s most westerly points. Home to Valentia Slate Quarry and the Valentia Island Lighthouse, to mention just two of the many quirky spots you can visit on the Island. If you’re in the mood to stretch your legs, Bray Head is a short steep walk hosting panoramic views of the Skellig Islands, the Kerry Coast and the Wild Atlantic Way. At the top you will find a tower sitting on the exposed cliffs, which are not for the faint of heart!
9. Kells Beach
Kells Beach is a hidden gem along the Ring of Kerry. The turn off for the beach is between Caherciveen and Glenbeigh, a narrow, bendy road leads you to a stunning little sandy beach. You won’t find many tourists in this spot, it is a well-kept secret and well worth a visit! If you’re feeling brave, you can dip your toe in the water, or better yet, try a dive off the pier! A short distance from the beach, on the road to Glenbeigh, you will find Mountain Stage viewing point, pull in here to get the perfect photo of Rossbeigh Beach, Inch Beach, The Blasket Islands and Dingle Bay all in one shot.
10. Glenbeigh Village & Rossbeigh Beach
Glenbeigh is a quaint little village, known by some as “the jewel of the Ring of Kerry”, it is situated between the Caragh River and the Behy River. Home to the beautiful Rossbeigh Beach, which lies on the outskirts of the village, an unspoilt, golden, Blue Flag Beach stretching for 11 kilometres. The perfect stop to refresh, enjoy some fresh, sea air and stretch your legs before continuing on your journey.
11. Gap of Dunloe
You may have to go ever so slightly out of your way to reach the Gap of Dunloe, but it is most certainly worth it! The Gap of Dunloe was formed around two million years ago when Killarney’s ice age took hold, this gave the mountains there, their distinct jagged appearance. There is the option to drive the Gap of Dunloe, however, we would recommend a walk or jaunting car to make the most of this experience.
12. Killarney National Park
Now, you have made it back to Killarney but the fun is not over yet! There are too many wonderful spots to name in Killarney but here are just a few that we would recommend within Killarney National Park! Killarney National Park is an absolute must for all visitors to the town. Here you will find over 26,000 acres of unspoilt nature filled with local wildlife. Located within the park is Ross Castle which sits on the edge of Lough Leane . We also highly recommend checking out Muckross House and Gardens which overlook Muckross Lake and are home to stunning mountain views. With so much ground to explore, there is no shortage of stunning scenery in Killarney National Park.
