Ring of Kerry Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

Moll\'s Gap showing landscape views, tranquil scenes and views
Ring of Kerry
Ring of Kerry
Moll\'s Gap showing tranquil scenes and landscape views
Ring of Kerry
Visitors have taken this route through deep forest and rugged Atlantic coastline for hundreds of years.

The Ring of Kerry is a 110-mile (177-kilometre) trail through unspoiled County Kerry countryside. It winds through dense forests, over sandy beaches, along the rugged Atlantic coastline and past clear freshwater streams and tumbling waterfalls.

The Ring of Kerry has attracted visitors for centuries. Take in its breathtaking beauty and use the location as a base for outdoor pursuits, including golf, cycling, walking, running, riding and fishing.

The journey begins at Killarney town. Take a bus tour or rent a car from within the town. Many visitors prefer to go by private car to enjoy detours and stops along the way. Take the road to Killorglin and follow the signposts for “Ring.” This will lead you around the coastal road in a counterclockwise direction, which provides the most spectacular views.

You’ll come across larger towns as well as small traditional villages. Stop at Bog Village on the main road between Killorglin and Glenbeigh. This replica of a 19th-century village has displays and museum exhibits. Experience life as it was at the end of the 19th century and visit thatched cottages, hen houses, blacksmith’s quarters and an old forge.

Explore the quiet beaches and coves along the coastline, such as the long sandy beach at Derrynane Bay. Stop by one of the many seafood restaurants to try fish pie, seafood chowder and other specialities featuring local produce.

Other interesting sights along the coast include Skellig Michael, the site of an ancient Irish monastery that sits on top of a rock in the Atlantic Ocean. Take the slight detour from the main road toward Waterville to visit Valentia Island. The effects of the Gulf Stream mean the island is an unexpected haven for many subtropical plant species, which can be seen at Glanleam Gardens.

Finally, the road between Kenmare and Killarney opens onto rugged scenery, including the “Ladies' View” over Killarney Valley, one of the most photographed vistas along the route.

The Ring of Kerry is open year-round and has no fee or tolls.

Where to stay in Ring of Kerry

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Beenbane

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Beenbane and surrounding area, you can visit The Atlantic Telegraph Waterville and Waterville Beach.

Beenbane
Butler Arms Hotel

Butler Arms Hotel

4 out of 5
New Line Road, Waterville, Kerry
Stay at this 4-star beach hotel in Waterville. Enjoy free breakfast, free Wi-Fi and free parking. Popular attractions The Story of Waterville Cable Station Exhibition ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (125 reviews)
"Great place to stay if you are playing Waterville GC"

Reviewed on 19 Jun 2025

Butler Arms Hotel
The Royal Valentia Hotel

The Royal Valentia Hotel

3.5 out of 5
Market Street, Knightstown, Valentia Island, Kerry
The price is ₹13,959 per night from 27 Jul to 28 Jul
₹13,959
₹15,843 total
27 Jul - 28 Jul
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3.5-star business-friendly hotel in Valentia Island. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (94 reviews)
"Great spot!"

Reviewed on 11 Jul 2025

The Royal Valentia Hotel
Parknasilla Resort and Spa

Parknasilla Resort and Spa

4 out of 5
Parknasilla, Sneem, Kerry
The price is ₹30,499 per night from 20 Jul to 21 Jul
₹30,499
₹34,617 total
20 Jul - 21 Jul
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star beach hotel in Sneem. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, an outdoor pool and a private beach. Our guests praise the helpful staff in their reviews. Popular ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (368 reviews)
"Great 3 night stay here. Food in"

Reviewed on 8 Jul 2025

Parknasilla Resort and Spa
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Gap of Dunloe

Gap of Dunloe

2 out of 5
Beaufort, Killarney, County Kerry
Stay at this cottage in Killarney. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and a garden. Popular attractions Killarney National Park and Moll's Gap are located ...
Gap of Dunloe
Coolnaharragill Lower

Coolnaharragill Lower

3.5 out of 5
Glenbeigh, County Kerry
Stay at this 3.5-star golf cottage in Glenbeigh. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and a garden. Popular attractions Wynn's Folly and Coomasaharn Scribed Stones ...
Coolnaharragill Lower
Park Place Apartments

Park Place Apartments

4 out of 5
High Street, Killarney, Kerry
Stay at this 4-star apartment in Killarney. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and concierge services. Our guests praise the helpful staff in their reviews. Popular ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (534 reviews)
Family stop in Killarney
"If you’re staying a few days this place would be great. Very spacious, fully stocked kitchen with appliances etc. lots of space. Bathroom in comparison and especially the shower were a bit small but still fine. Place is right at the end of the main strip of shops so good location."

Reviewed on 9 Jul 2025

Park Place Apartments
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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Cities near Ring of Kerry