If you’ve ever dreamed of vibrant green landscapes, winding coastal roads, fairytale-like villages and the kind of magic that only Ireland can deliver, then the Ring of Kerry simply must be on your travel list. Whether you're exploring with the family, road-tripping with your love, or soaking up the serenity solo, this iconic 179-kilometre circular route in County Kerry is a picture-perfect slice of Irish heaven.
Having wandered many Irish roads, the Ring of Kerry holds a special place in my heart. With its mix of well-known sights and secret hideaways, it's one of those rare places where every twist in the road feels like turning a page in a fairytale.
Some of my favourite memories have been based in the Ring of Kerry. Like the day we walked the Gap of Dunloe with our kids and our boys ended the walk with a dip in the lake to cool down on that warm summers day. Or the time my partner and I took all the winding roads through a rural part of the Ring of Kerry to visit the fairytale-like Molly's Cottage on a winters day. The scenery in both spots, and indeed around the whole Ring of Kerry, is just stunning.
So pop the kettle on, grab your notebook, and let’s dive into this ultimate guide to the Ring of Kerry — complete with must-see spots, hidden gems, and some helpful links to make planning your trip a breeze.
🌿 Must-See Stops on the Ring of Kerry
1. Killarney National Park
Begin your journey in Killarney, a vibrant town full of charm, where pubs hum with traditional music and cafés spill out onto cobbled streets. From here, explore Killarney National Park, a lush nature paradise of lakes, waterfalls, woodlands and mountains. Don’t miss:
Torc Waterfall – an easy walk through the woods rewards you with a thundering 20-metre waterfall.
Muckross House & Gardens – a grand Victorian mansion nestled beside Muckross Lake (perfect for picnics with little ones!).
🖱️ Read more on Killarney National Park here.
2. Ladies View
This scenic lookout offers stunning views over the Lakes of Killarney. It’s said Queen Victoria’s ladies-in-waiting adored the view here (hence the name), and you will too. A lovely place to stop for photos and maybe a homemade scone from the nearby café.
3. Moll’s Gap
Just a short drive from Ladies View, Moll’s Gap is another iconic viewpoint. This stretch of road curves dramatically through the mountains and is one of the most photogenic parts of the drive.
🏞️ Coastal Charms & Colourful Villages
4. Sneem
This postcard-perfect village is a burst of colour and Irish quirkiness. It’s a wonderful place for a wander, an ice cream, or a cuppa in a cosy café. Children will love the little bridges and streams that criss-cross the village.
5. Waterville
Tucked along the coast, Waterville has stunning sea views and a peaceful charm. It was once a favourite of Charlie Chaplin, and there’s even a statue of him by the promenade. A perfect spot for a seaside walk.
6. Cahersiveen
This charming town is a little off the main tourist path and well worth a stop. Visit Cahergall and Leacanabuaile Stone Forts, ancient ring forts dating back to the Iron Age – a hidden gem for history lovers!
🌄 Hidden Gems Along the Ring of Kerry
Now, for a few special places you won’t want to miss – ones you won’t always find on the big tour guides.
🌺 Valentia Island
Just a short bridge crossing from Portmagee, Valentia Island is a little slice of serenity. Here, you’ll find:
Bray Head Loop Walk – views here are jaw-dropping and stretch as far as the Skellig Islands.
Valentia Lighthouse – peaceful, picturesque, and perfect for photo lovers.
Tetrapod Trackway – one of the oldest signs of life on land, dating back 385 million years.
🖱️ Explore Valentia Island here.
🐦 Ballinskelligs
Famous for its beautiful Blue Flag beach, Ballinskelligs is also home to Ballinskelligs Castle ruins and a peaceful abbey by the sea. Bring your camera and a picnic – this place is pure magic.
🌌 Skellig Ring
For the adventurous spirit, the Skellig Ring (a spur off the Ring of Kerry) is rugged, remote, and spectacular. You’ll pass through St. Finian’s Bay (great for wave watching) and on to Portmagee, a delightful fishing village. From here, boats depart to Skellig Michael, the otherworldly island made famous by Star Wars: The Force Awakens.
🖱️ Read more about Skellig Michael boat tours here.
🧳 Tips for Planning Your Ring of Kerry Adventure
Start Early: The roads are narrow and winding, and the earlier you start, the better the views (and fewer crowds!).
Drive Counter-Clockwise: Especially if you're self-driving, this direction helps avoid tour bus traffic.
Pack Snacks & Layers: Weather can be temperamental, and many stops are remote. I once experienced sun, rain, snow and rainbows in one day while exploring the Ring of Kerry!
Stay Overnight: If you can afford to, break the loop into 2 days to explore more deeply. Killarney, Kenmare, and Waterville all make charming overnight stops.
💡 Handy Links for Your Trip
🛏️ Accommodation in County Kerry
🚌 Guided Tours of the Ring of Kerry
There’s something truly spellbinding about the Ring of Kerry. It’s not just the beauty — though that’s in abundance — but the feeling it gives you. A slowing down. A deep breath of fresh air. A chance to connect with Ireland’s wild, wistful soul. I'm from the neighbouring county of Cork, but any time I visit Kerry it feels like I'm visiting another country. It's a very laidback, relaxing place with so much to see and do.
Whether you're wandering with a camera, little ones in tow, or simply with a heart full of wonder, the Ring of Kerry promises a journey you’ll remember forever.
If you’ve been, I’d love to hear your favourite spot! And if you’re planning to go, pop any questions below — I’m always happy to help fellow wanderers find their way. 🌿
