The Ring of Kerry is a 179 km drive starting and ending in Killarney, Ireland. This route offers stunning attractions and scenery including Killarney National Park, Ross Castle, Muckross Abbey, Torc Waterfall, Ladies View, Molls Gap, Kenmare, Sneem, Derrynane Beach, Waterville, and Coomanaspig Pass.
This article will provide an overview of the Ring of Kerry Drive, the two routes of the Ring of Kerry Drive, a Ring of Kerry Map with points of interest, highlights of the Ring of Kerry Drive, and a 1-day Ring of Kerry itinerary.
Key Takeaways
- The Ring of Kerry route is 179km long and takes around 2.5 hours to drive without stopping.
- It is recommended to allow at least 7-10 hours to explore and enjoy the drive fully.
- There are two routes of the Ring of Kerry drive: the official route and the unofficial route with the Skellig Ring detour.
- Highlights of the drive include Killarney National Park, Ladies View, Ross Castle, Muckross Abbey, and Torc Waterfall.
Overview of the Ring of Kerry Drive
The Ring of Kerry is a 179 km route located in Ireland, beginning and ending in Killarney, that offers stunning attractions and scenery. The route can be joined at any point, but it is recommended to drive it clockwise in order to avoid tour buses.
Driving the route without stopping takes around 2.5 hours, but allowing 7-10 hours for exploration and enjoyment is best.
It includes two routes: the official route, which follows the original Ring of Kerry route, and the unofficial route, which includes the Skellig Ring detour. The map highlights points of interest, and highlights include Killarney National Park, Ladies View, Ross Castle, Muckross Abbey, Torc Waterfall, Molls Gap, Kenmare, Sneem, Derrynane Beach, Waterville, and Coomanaspig Pass.
The Two Routes of the Ring of Kerry Drive
Driving the Ring of Kerry offers two routes: the official and the unofficial.
The official route follows the original Ring of Kerry route (red line on the map), while the unofficial route includes the Skellig Ring detour (blue line on the map).
The Skellig Ring addition is highly recommended due to its stunning attractions and scenery.
The following points should be considered when deciding which route to take:
- Allow at least 7-10 hours to explore and enjoy the drive
- Start the route from Killarney and drive clockwise
- Look out for tour buses on the official route
- Both routes offer great views and attractions
- The Skellig Ring is an additional highlight
Ring of Kerry Map With Points of Interest
A map of the Ring of Kerry drive is available and features different colored pointers to indicate attractions in specific areas.
Purple pointers on the map represent attractions in and around Killarney, such as Killarney National Park and Ladies View.
Yellow pointers mark attractions in Kenmare and Sneem, while red pointers indicate attractions in Caherdaniel and Waterville.
The map is a useful tool for planning a route and helps visitors identify attractions in each area.
Additionally, it can help visitors decide which places to visit and how long to spend there.
The map ensures that visitors can make the most of their Ring of Kerry drive, and enjoy the stunning attractions and scenery the area has to offer.
Highlights of the Ring of Kerry Drive
Visitors to the Ring of Kerry drive can enjoy a variety of stunning attractions and scenery.
Highlights include Killarney National Park, Ladies View, Ross Castle, Muckross Abbey, and Torc Waterfall.
Killarney National Park is a must-visit, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and lakes.
The iconic Ladies View offers incredible views of the area.
Ross Castle is a historical site worth exploring, with its 16th-century tower and old graveyard.
Muckross Abbey is an ancient abbey with beautiful surroundings and a peaceful atmosphere.
Torc Waterfall is a popular stop with stunning cascading waterfalls and lush greenery.
All of these sites are sure to make for an unforgettable drive.
1-Day Ring of Kerry Itinerary
An itinerary of the Ring of Kerry route provides an opportunity to experience the area’s attractions and stunning scenery.
Starting with breakfast in Killarney, visitors can explore the nearby Killarney National Park, Ross Castle, and Muckross Abbey.
Torc Waterfall is a popular stop, followed by the stunning views of Ladies View.
Molls Gap provides panoramic views of the Macgillycuddys Reeks.
Kenmare and Sneem are picturesque villages while Derrynane Beach has a natural harbor.
Waterville is a pleasant dining experience and Coomanaspig Pass offers breathtaking panoramic views.
This itinerary offers the perfect way to experience the Ring of Kerry.
Killarney National Park
Killarney National Park is a popular attraction along the Ring of Kerry drive, offering captivating scenery and recreational opportunities. It is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, with activities like hiking, cycling, horse riding, and boat trips.
The park boasts breathtaking views of the Macgillycuddys Reeks mountain range, lakes, and rivers. It is also home to many species of birds, plants, and wildlife.
Some of the activities available at the park include:
- Hiking trails for all levels of experience
- Cycling trails for road and mountain biking
- Horse riding available at the park
- Boat trips to explore the lakes and rivers
Visitors to the park can also enjoy observing the abundant bird and wildlife species that call it home.
Ladies View
Following the exploration of Killarney National Park, the Ring of Kerry route leads to the iconic Ladies View, a stunning viewpoint located along the route. This vantage point offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, lakes, and valleys.
It is named after Queen Victoria’s ladies-in-waiting who were so amazed by the scenery that they wanted to stop and take in the view. The area is also home to a visitor center with a cafe and gift shop. There are plenty of benches and picnic tables, making it the perfect spot for a break.
With its spectacular views, Ladies View is the ideal place to take in the beauty of the Ring of Kerry route.
Ross Castle
Ross Castle is a 15th-century tower house on Lough Leane’s edge in Killarney National Park. It is one of the most iconic and popular attractions on the Ring of Kerry drive. The castle is a reminder of Ireland’s turbulent history and is steeped in legend and folklore. It is a popular stop for visitors as it offers a glimpse into the lives of the ancient Gaelic chieftains.
The castle is open to visitors year-round and offers a variety of activities. It is possible to explore the castle grounds on foot and take in the breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding countryside. Visitors can also take a guided tour inside the castle and learn about its history and the people who lived there.
The castle has a rich history and has been the site of some of the most significant battles in Irish history. It is believed to have been built in the 15th century by the O’Donoghue Mór family. The castle has been restored and is now a protected national monument.
Highlights of Ross Castle:
- Spectacular views of Lough Leane and Killarney National Park
- Guided tours inside the castle
- Picturesque surroundings
- Rich history and legend
- Accessible year-round for visitors
Muckross Abbey
Muckross Abbey is an ancient abbey located in Killarney National Park. Founded by Franciscan monks in 1448, it is the only remaining medieval friary in the area. The abbey sits on the shores of Muckross Lake, surrounded by beautiful woodlands and gardens.
The abbey’s ruins are a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a glimpse into the area’s past. Visitors can explore the cloister, chapel, and refectory inside the abbey, as well as the two-story chapter house and the sacristy. The abbey’s collection of artifacts includes a number of relics from the 15th and 16th centuries.
The abbey grounds are also home to a small museum and a range of activities, such as guided tours and educational programs. Visitors can relax and take in the stunning views of the lake and surrounding hills.
Muckross Abbey is a must-see for anyone exploring the Ring of Kerry.
Torc Waterfall
Muckross Abbey is a historic site in Killarney National Park and an important part of the Ring of Kerry drive. Immediately following Muckross Abbey is the stunning Torc Waterfall. It is one of the most popular attractions on the route and many tourists flock to view the cascading waterfall. It is a great spot for photos and for taking a break from the drive.
When visiting Torc Waterfall, it is important to be prepared for crowds. There is a large parking lot for cars and plenty of space for visitors to walk around and admire the majestic view. The following are five things to keep in mind when visiting Torc Waterfall:
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothing
- Bring plenty of water and snacks
- Watch out for slippery rocks
- Protect yourself from the sun
- Respect the environment and keep the area clean
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit the Ring of Kerry?
The best time of year to visit the Ring of Kerry is typically between April and October when the temperatures are mild and the days are longer. The summer months of June, July, and August are typically the busiest, while the spring and autumn months are quieter and ideal for sightseeing.
How Can I Get to the Ring of Kerry From Dublin?
The most common way to get to the Ring of Kerry from Dublin is to take a train to Killarney and rent a car. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Dublin to Killarney, or book a private tour service that will take you directly to the Ring of Kerry.
Are There Any Camping or Accommodation Options Along the Route?
Yes, camping and accommodation options are available along the Ring of Kerry route. Visitors can choose from a range of hotels, B&Bs, hostels, self-catering homes, and camping sites. Some offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape, making them the perfect base for exploring the area.
Are There Any Walking or Cycling Trails in the Area?
Yes, there are a number of walking and cycling trails in the Ring of Kerry area. Killarney National Park offers numerous trails for both walking and cycling, ranging from easy to challenging. Sneem is a great starting point for a scenic cycling tour, while Kenmare and Waterville both offer numerous walking trails. The Ross Castle Trail is a popular walking route with stunning views.
Are There Any Special Events Taking Place in the Ring of Kerry?
The Ring of Kerry area is host to a variety of special events throughout the year. During summer months, traditional Irish music festivals and open-air theatre performances are held. Visitors can enjoy traditional food festivals, horse racing events, and cycling competitions in autumn. During winter, visitors can enjoy Christmas markets and carol singing. There are also craft fairs, art exhibitions, and sporting events throughout the year.
