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 Waterville Beach and Waterville Golf Links.

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! (126 reviews)
"But arms is an older property that is in need of a little TLC. The staff is wonderful and nice. They’re very accommodative and helpful. Location is super convenient right in the middle of Waterville with lots of dining options and services surrounding the hotel. Parking is easy and free. But the ..."

Reviewed on 18 Jul 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 ₹13,460 per night from 24 Jul to 25 Jul
₹13,460
₹15,277 total
24 Jul - 25 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! (98 reviews)
"Absolutely gorgeous island! Property was very nice as was the staff."

Reviewed on 16 Jul 2025

The Royal Valentia Hotel
Kenmare Bay Hotel & Resort

Kenmare Bay Hotel & Resort

3 out of 5
Sneem Road, Kenmare, Ireland
The price is ₹11,471 per night from 24 Jul to 25 Jul
₹11,471
₹13,019 total
24 Jul - 25 Jul
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Kenmare. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and breakfast (surcharge). Popular attractions Our Lady's Well and Cromwell's ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (104 reviews)
"The hotel staff were extremely friendly and helpful. We particularly enjoyed using the pool before breakfast when it wasn't busy. We felt there wasn't enough social space to sit and have a coffee and chat with other guests. There also seemed to be a problem with the courtyard bar which wasn't open ..."

Reviewed on 1 Jul 2025

Kenmare Bay Hotel & Resort
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 Annexe

Coolnaharragill Lower Annexe

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 Burke's Beach Riding and Rossbeigh Beach are ...
Coolnaharragill Lower Annexe
Rossbeigh Beach Cottage No 6

Rossbeigh Beach Cottage No 6

3.5 out of 5
Glenbeigh, Kerry (county)
Stay at this 3.5-star cottage in Glenbeigh. Enjoy free parking, a beach locale and a garden. Popular attractions Burke's Beach Riding and Rossbeigh Beach are ...
Rossbeigh Beach Cottage No 6
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.

Popular places to visit

Cities near Ring of Kerry