Where is the Ring of Kerry circuit?
Also known as the Ring of Kerry, the Ring of Kerry is a circuit that forms a loop. Located on the Iveragh peninsula, this 180 km scenic route is rated one of Ireland's most beautiful roads.
On the south-west coast, the Ring of Kerry attracts many visitors every year, who marvel at :
- contrasting landscapes,
- breathtaking views,
- picturesque villages,
- emblematic heritage sites.
This multi-hour or multi-day exploration takes you past cliffs, sandy beaches and mountain ranges, past typical villages, traditional shops and historic sites.
Practical tips for visiting the Ring of Kerry
To reach Kerry in Ireland in just a few hours, take advantage of our regional airline's round-trip flights from Brest, Caen and Pau.
Once you're there, you can choose to do the Ring of Kerry circuit:
- A guided tour with a bus company,
- A cycling tour if you're not afraid of hills,
- Individual vehicle rental,
- A hike on the Kerry Way, a trail over 200 km long.
As far as cars are concerned, it's best to opt for smaller models, which make manoeuvring easier. The roads in the Ring of Kerry are very busy, especially in summer. Some stretches are quite steep, and it's not impossible to come across an oncoming bus.
Suggested itinerary: day 1 on the Ring of Kerry
Stage 1: Killarney town
The recommended starting point for the Ring of Kerry tour is Killarney. In Killarney, you can enjoy thelively, friendly atmosphere of this corner of Ireland. Don't miss out on tastings of local specialities and demonstrations of traditional music.
Before leaving Killarney, don't miss The Muckross House, a 65-room manor house in pure Tudor style that has remained untouched since the time of Queen Victoria.
Stage 2: The town of Killorglin
On the way to this second stopover, you'll pass through pastoral landscapes and narrow roads. The MacGillycuddy's Reeks mountain range is a sight to behold, as is Ireland's highest peak: Carrauntoohill.
Once in Killorglin, the statue of a billy goat on a boulder catches the eye. You can make out a crown on his head. This is King Puck. Every year at the beginning of August in Killorglin, a wild goat is crowned king, and for several days the town organizes a music and dance festival. This is the Puck Fair, one of Ireland's oldest festivals.
Stage 3: Rossbeigh beach
The rest of the tour takes you to Glenbeigh. This village is best known for its vast sandy beach, which has been designated a natural heritage site. Surrounded by mountains and hills, it is a splendid sight and features a conservation area for local flora and fauna.
Depending on how much time you want to spend here, you can choose from a range of activities: walking, horse riding, swimming, surfing...
Stage 4: Cahersiveen
At the foot of Beentee Mountain, the town of Cahersiveen is considered the gateway to the Skellig Ring. The town boasts some fascinating buildings, including a 7th-century stone fort, 15th-century Ballycarbery Castle and a former barracks dedicated to the Royal Irish Police in the 1870s.
Stage 5: Waterville
Before reaching the last point of your first day, you take a winding road, with the Skellig peninsula and ocean on one side, and vast green expanses on the other.
The wild beauty of this part of Ireland was dear to Charlie Chaplin 's heart, and he regularly vacationed here. A statue and commemorative plaque have been erected in his honor in Waterville.
When spending the night on this part of the Emerald Isle, don't forget to look up at the sky. This is one of the three International Dark Sky Reserves.
Suggested King of Kerry route: day 2
Stage 1: Derrynane beach
Enjoy a moment of relaxation on Derrynane beach. Between soft sand, peaceful waters and lush hills, soak up the picturesque landscape.
Before setting off again, visit Derrynane House, the home of Daniel O'Connell, an important figure in Irish history.
Stage 2: Sneem village
This small coastal village is known for its colorful facades and its sculpture trail. Works of art from the four corners of the globe can be seen in Sneem's public garden.
Stage 3: Kenmare
Along the way, the wooded landscape offers superb views over Kenmare Bay. As you enter the town, you'll find the fervor of a lively city with many shops, excellent restaurants, art galleries...
Traditional establishments rub shoulders with contemporary boutiques to your delight. It's the perfect place to buy travel souvenirs.
Stage 4: Moll's Gap
For this final stretch of road, we head for the mountain passes of Moll's Gap. This passage between the mountains offers breathtaking scenery. On this narrow road you'll find many twists and turns, but also spectacular views of Upper Lake, the Black Valley and Macgillycuddy's Reeks. You'll even find a store along the way on the rocky ridge.
Then it's on to Killarney to complete the Ring of Kerry circuit.