Ring of Kerry

Travel Guide

Moll\'s Gap showing tranquil scenes, landscape views and views
Ring of Kerry which includes tranquil scenes and general coastal views
Ring of Kerry which includes a river or creek, a bridge and mountains
Moll\'s Gap which includes tranquil scenes and landscape views
Ring of Kerry which includes general coastal views, tranquil scenes and landscape views
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-kilometer) 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

Default Image

Beenbane

While Beenbane isn't home to many top sights, Waterville Beach and Waterville Golf Links are some notable places to visit nearby.

Beenbane
Sheen Falls Lodge

Sheen Falls Lodge

5 out of 5
Kenmare, Kenmare, Kerry
The price is ¥42,726 per night from Oct 12 to Oct 13
¥42,726
¥48,494 total
Oct 12 - Oct 13
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 5-star luxury hotel in Kenmare. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a full-service spa. Popular attractions Reenagross Park and Carraig An Cappeen ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (328 reviews)
"Friendly and helpful staff!"

Reviewed on Sep 21, 2025

Sheen Falls Lodge
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 WiFi, and free parking. Popular attractions The Story of Waterville Cable Station Exhibition ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (151 reviews)
"Very nice location close to the sea. We could hear the waves from our room. The staff was so welcoming, they really made a difference. Food was very good for dinner and breakfast. I loved the phone in the room, which was a rotary dial phone. I had not seen one of those in ages. Convenient car park. ..."

Reviewed on Sep 25, 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 ¥22,890 per night from Oct 8 to Oct 9
¥22,890
¥25,980 total
Oct 8 - Oct 9
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3.5-star business-friendly hotel in Valentia Island. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (112 reviews)
Traveling man
"Good location,on the water"

Reviewed on Sep 20, 2025

The Royal Valentia Hotel
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.
5* holiday home overlooking Lough Currane Free Wifi Near Hogs Head Golf Course

5* holiday home overlooking Lough Currane Free Wifi Near Hogs Head Golf Course

Waterville
Book a stay at this family-friendly vacation home in Waterville. Enjoy a garden, laundry facilities, and patios. Popular attractions Eightercua Stone Row and ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (53 reviews)
"Lake House is a beautiful property in an idyllic location. Close enough to the village for essentials but beautiful and quiet. The kids had a great time in the gardens as did our family dog. The house has everything you could require with so much space and both indoor and outdoor dining options. ..."

Reviewed on Jul 26, 2025

5* holiday home overlooking Lough Currane Free Wifi Near Hogs Head Golf Course
Luxury Seaside Cottage, Stunning Ocean Views, Waterville, Ring of Kerry

Luxury Seaside Cottage, Stunning Ocean Views, Waterville, Ring of Kerry

Kerry
Book a stay at this family-friendly cottage in Caherdaniel. Enjoy free WiFi, a garden, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Loher Stone Fort and Skellig ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (62 reviews)
"Really beautiful spacious home that was perfect for our brief stay in the area. We also appreciated the food and milk that the host provided since the house is a few minutes away from town. Communication from the host was outstanding and prompt, too."

Reviewed on Sep 17, 2025

Luxury Seaside Cottage, Stunning Ocean Views, Waterville, Ring of Kerry
Shelburne Lodge, Georgian House, Garden, Parking, 5 min Walk from Kenmare Town

Shelburne Lodge, Georgian House, Garden, Parking, 5 min Walk from Kenmare Town

Kenmare
Book a stay at this family-friendly vacation home in Kenmare. Enjoy a garden, laundry facilities, and patios. Popular attractions Kenmare Golf Club and Carraig ...
10/10 Exceptional! (1 review)
"Our family of 17 celebrated a special birthday at this wonderful home. Even though it was large enough to accommodate all of us, it was a warm and comfortable place for all of us. It was within walking distance to many restaurants, pubs, grocery stores and golf course. Patrick and Victoria were always ..."

Reviewed on Aug 11, 2025

Shelburne Lodge, Georgian House, Garden, Parking, 5 min Walk from Kenmare Town
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