Experience some of the most breathtaking scenery in Ireland, if not the world, by taking a leisurely drive and touring around the Ring of Kerry.
This circular route spans 170 kilometres starting in the beautiful tourist town of Killarney in Munster. While it can be done in a day, it is best to spend three or four days taking in the amazing views and rich culture. There is no shortage of quality accommodation (Kathleen's Country House), dining and entertainment along the way.
Although it is a popular route among cyclists and hikers, most people travel the Ring of Kerry by car. If you wish to tour around the Ring of Kerry in a rental car, you could pick up a car at Shannon Airport, Cork Airport or Cork City. For more information about car rentals from Cork Airport please contact Thrifty Car Rental Ireland.
Starting in Killarney, follow the N70, N71 and R562 through Kerry’s beautiful mountains and peninsulas. Head south to Kenmare and then out along the Iveragh peninsula through Sneem, Waterville, Caherciveen, Killorglin and back to Killarney. Just a few kilometers out Killarney you will come to the beautiful Killarney Lakes. Climb to Molls Gap and Ladies View to take in the breathtaking views.
Take in the heritage town of Kenmare and set out along the Iveragh peninsula to the picturesque village of Sneem. Further on along the route you will find Derrynane House, the home of famous Irish politician Daniel O’Connell.
Caherdaniel is next, followed by Waterville and its famous links golf course. The next significant stop is Cahersiveen which is home to the Old Barracks Heritage Centre. There are also some impressive stone forts nearby at Leacanabuile and Cahergal.
Not far past Cahersiveen the route takes in some amazing views of the Blasket Islands and the Dingle Peninsula as the road follows the coast. The road will then bring you to the town of Killorglin and from there it is a short drive back to Killarney.
Thrifty Car Rental have just released the Ring of Kerry in a format ready to be installed onto any GPS device. For more information about downloading and using this file, please see our Irish Points of Interest page.