Wild Beauty and Charm
The Ring of Kerry
The Ring of Kerry
The Ring of Kerry is one of Ireland’s most celebrated scenic drives, offering visitors a 179-kilometer journey through rugged coastline, rolling hills, charming villages, and historic landmarks. Located in County Kerry, this loop is an iconic exploration of the Iveragh Peninsula and a perfect way to experience Ireland’s natural beauty, culture, and heritage.
Travellers along the Ring of Kerry encounter a blend of landscapes that range from golden beaches and dramatic cliffs to lush valleys and serene lakes. Notable stops include Killarney National Park, with its pristine lakes and wooded trails, Ladies View, offering panoramic vistas of the mountains, and Torc Waterfall, a picturesque cascading waterfall surrounded by walking paths. The route is dotted with quaint villages, including Kenmare, Sneem, and Cahersiveen, where visitors can enjoy artisan shops, traditional music, and local cuisine.
5 Facts Before You Visit The Ring of Kerry
- The Ring of Kerry is part of the Wild Atlantic Way, one of the longest coastal routes in the world.
- Skellig Michael, visible from parts of the route, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site featured in Star Wars.
- Waterville was a favourite holiday spot of Charlie Chaplin, who visited with his family in the 1960s.
- There are more sheep than people along much of the Ring, often grazing near the roadside.
- The Ring’s mild microclimate allows subtropical plants like palms and fuchsia to flourish.
“One of my favourites: The Ring of Kerry. We even got to do some smaller things like feed sheep and pull our own pints of Guinness”