Ireland’s Coastal Gem-The Ring of Kerry
Ring of Kerry
The Ring of Kerry is a scenic drive that loops around the Iveragh Peninsula in County Kerry, Ireland. It’s renowned for its breathtaking coastal landscapes, charming villages, historic sites, and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and surrounding countryside. The Ring of Kerry is approximately 179 kilometers long and offers a picturesque route through some of Ireland’s most stunning scenery. The drive typically takes several hours, but visitors often take a full day or more to explore the area.
Along the Ring of Kerry, travelers can enjoy panoramic views of rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and the dramatic coastline of the Atlantic Ocean. The landscape is dotted with picturesque bays, inlets, and islands. The Ring of Kerry is home to numerous attractions, including historic sites, ancient ruins, and natural landmarks. Some highlights include the Skellig Islands, the Staigue Stone Fort, Muckross House and Gardens, and the Torc Waterfall.
The drive passes through charming villages and towns where visitors can experience traditional Irish culture, sample local cuisine, and interact with friendly locals. Some notable stops include Killarney, Kenmare, Sneem, and Cahersiveen. There are several scenic viewpoints along the route where travelers can pull over to take in the stunning vistas and capture memorable photographs. Some of the most famous viewpoints include Ladies View, Moll’s Gap, and the Gap of Dunloe.
Dingle Peninsula
The Dingle Peninsula is the northernmost of the major peninsulas in County Kerry. It ends beyond the town of Dingle at Dunmore Head, the westernmost point of Ireland. The peninsula exists because of the band of sandstone rock that forms the Slieve Mish mountain range at the neck of the peninsula, in the east. Conor Pass, which runs from Dingle on the south-western end of the peninsula towards Brandon Bay and Castlegregory in the north-east, is the highest mountain pass in Ireland, a narrow, twisting road; it weaves its way around the sharp cliff faces and past the high corrie lakes.
The Peninsula is renowned for its rugged beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, the Dingle Peninsula offers visitors a memorable experience. The Dingle Peninsula is characterized by dramatic coastal cliffs, sandy beaches, rolling hills, and picturesque villages. The landscape is dotted with ancient ruins, prehistoric sites, and stunning vistas overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
Also read- A Dramatic Scenic Landscape-County Kerry in Ireland
The Dingle Peninsula offers a range of outdoor activities for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy hiking along scenic trails, cycling along quiet country roads, surfing on pristine beaches, and exploring the rugged coastline by boat. The main town on the peninsula, Dingle, is a charming fishing village known for its colorful buildings, lively pubs, and friendly atmosphere. Visitors can stroll along the waterfront, browse artisan shops, and sample fresh seafood in the town’s restaurants.
Ring of Kerry map
The Ring of Kerry is a scenic drive that loops around the Iveragh Peninsula in County Kerry. It offers breathtaking views of rugged coastlines, mountains, lakes, and charming villages. The Ring of Kerry route often starts and ends in Killarney, a bustling town known for its beautiful national park, historic sites, and vibrant atmosphere. One can explore various towns along the Ring of Kerry route.
Ring of Kerry Tour
A Ring of Kerry tour is a popular way to explore the scenic beauty and cultural heritage of the Ring of Kerry route in County Kerry, Ireland. Here’s an overview of what you can expect from a Kerry tour.
Guided Commentary
Most Ring of Kerry tours are guided, with knowledgeable local guides providing commentary about the history, culture, and points of interest along the route. Guides share fascinating stories and insights about the landscapes, landmarks, and communities you’ll encounter.
Comfortable Transportation
Ring of Kerry Tours typically provides comfortable transportation in coach buses or mini-buses equipped with large windows for optimal viewing of the stunning scenery. Travelers can sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey while the driver navigates the scenic route.
Key Stops and Attractions
Ring of Kerry tours include stops at key points of interest along the route, allowing travelers to explore picturesque villages, historic sites, natural attractions, and scenic viewpoints. Popular stops may include Killarney National Park, Muckross House, Ross Castle, Ladies View, and the Skellig Ring.
Many Kerry tours incorporate opportunities for travelers to experience local culture, traditions, and hospitality. This may include visits to traditional Irish pubs, craft shops, artisan markets, and family-owned businesses along the route. Some tour operators offer flexible itineraries and customizable options, allowing travelers to tailor their Ring of Kerry experience based on their interests, preferences, and time constraints.
Ring of Kerry Hotels
The Ring of Kerry, located in County Kerry, offers travelers a variety of accommodation options ranging from charming bed and breakfasts to luxury hotels.
Killarney
Killarney is a bustling town and a popular starting point for exploring the Ring of Kerry. It offers numerous hotels, including-
The Europe Hotel & Resort- A luxury 5-star hotel set on the shores of Lough Leane, offering stunning views and upscale amenities.
The Killarney Park Hotel- A luxury hotel located in the heart of Killarney town, known for its elegant accommodations and excellent service.
The Brehon Hotel- A contemporary hotel offering comfortable rooms, spa facilities, and fine dining options.
Kenmare
Kenmare is another charming town along the Ring of Kerry route, known for its colorful streets and vibrant atmosphere. Some hotels in Kenmare include.
Sheen Falls Lodge- A luxury country estate hotel set amidst 300 acres of woodland and gardens, offering elegant rooms and top-notch amenities.
The Kenmare Bay Hotel & Resort- A family-friendly hotel located near the town center, offering comfortable accommodations and leisure facilities.
Cahersiveen
Cahersiveen is a picturesque town located on the Ring of Kerry, with several hotels catering to travelers exploring the area.
The Royal Hotel Valentia- A historic hotel situated in the heart of Cahersiveen, offering cozy accommodations and a traditional Irish pub atmosphere.
Sea Breeze Bed & Breakfast- A charming B&B overlooking Valentia Island, offering comfortable rooms and warm hospitality.
These are just a few examples of hotels along the Ring of Kerry route and in nearby towns. There are many other accommodations available, including guesthouses, bed and breakfasts, and self-catering cottages, catering to various preferences and budgets.
How Long to Drive the Ring of Kerry
The Kerry is a scenic route that loops around the Iveragh Peninsula in County Kerry. The length of time it takes to drive the entire Ring of Kerry can vary depending on several factors, including the speed at which you drive, the number of stops you make, and traffic conditions. Generally, driving the entire Ring of Kerry without stops can take approximately 3 to 4 hours.
However, it’s essential to note that the primary appeal of the Kerry lies in its breathtaking scenery, charming villages, historic sites, and scenic viewpoints along the way. Most travelers choose to take their time and make frequent stops to enjoy the stunning landscapes, take photographs, explore villages, visit attractions, and soak in the local culture.
For a more leisurely experience, many visitors choose to spend a full day exploring the Ring of Kerry, allowing ample time for sightseeing, hiking, dining, and shopping.
