Ring of Kerry
If you want to experience the raw natural beauty of Ireland at first
hand, then a trip around the beautiful "Ring of Kerry" in Ireland's
southwest is a must. The circular route, which covers about 170km,
boasts some of the most breathtaking scenery you're ever likely to
see.
The Ring Of Kerry is beautiful, if you are visiting these parts then
the Ring is a MUST SEE!! It is absolutely stunning.
The weather here can be changeable at anytime of the day...so be
prepared!
Leaving Killarney on the N72, you'll find it hard to miss the
MacGillycuddy's Reeks on your left, with the highest point in the
range Carrantuohill, peaking at 1038m (3411ft). This is the highest
mountain in Ireland. At the base of this mountain range, lies the
Gap of Dunloe, widely recognised as one of the most picturesque
glaciated valleys in Europe.
Continue on the N72, and the first town you'll come to is
Killorglin.
On the 10th, 11th and 12th of August each year, a very extraordinary
festival takes place in this town involving a goat. It is said that
a goat once saved this town from invasion of the Cromwell's troops,
so each year a wild goat is taken from the mountains and placed high
on a pedestal in the town (don't worry he's well looked after by
animal welfare). People flock from near and far to see the goat and
enjoy the craic, music and drink which flows for the three solid
days of Puck Fair!
Exit Killorglin on the N70 and follow directions for your next town,
which is Glenbeigh. On your way here, you will see a little thatched
village on your right hand side. This is the Kerry Bog Village and
Museum, which gives a visual insight into the work and livelihood of
people in Ireland during the 18th century.
The road to Glenbeigh, which is home to a popular sandy beach
called Rossbeigh - a great place if you want to stretch your
legs while breathing in the invigorating sea air from the
Atlantic Ocean.
Back on the N70, and onto the pretty fishing village of Kells,
which also boasts its own sandy beach and stunning views of
Dingle Bay and the Atlantic.
The town of Caherciveen is the next stop on your travels.
This is the main market town on the Ring, so it's quite a busy spot
all year round and the birth place of Daniel O'Connell, a famous
political leader in the early 19th century.
If you are enjoying your adventure so far, we suggest you exit
Caherciveen on the Valentia road (R565) and head west along the
peninsula to discover Valentia Island, the remote towns of
Portmagee, Ballinskeillgs and the Skellig Islands. This area is a
must see if you are looking for somewhere 'off the beaten track' as
it is less frequented by visitors.
However, if time is against you, continue on your way through
Caherciveen and follow directions for Waterville on the N70.
Waterville is located about half way on the Ring of Kerry, so it’s a
good place to stop for lunch. After something to eat, you can wander
around this colourful town as many famous people have done before
you like, Charlie Chaplin, Walt Disney, Michael Jordan and Tiger
Woods.
Waterville is also a famous game angling resort, it has an 18 hole
championship golf links course (one of the top 20 in the world!) and
also a fantastic sandy beach.
As you continue your journey on the N70 from Waterville to
Caherdaniel, you will cross over what is called Coomakista Pass. Get
your camera ready – park up, and admire the views of the Kenmare
River, the Scariff and Deenish Islands.
If it is a nice sunny day, then stop off at Derrynane Beach,
considered to be one of the finest beaches in the country.
Next on the itinerary has to be a visit to Staigue Fort, a large
stone fort, about 4km off the N70, which is thought to be over 2000
years old! Its exact purpose is still unclear, but it was probably
built as a stronghold to protect a local king or lord.
Back on the N70 again and make for the pretty town of Sneem,
a popular holiday destination because of its sheer beauty and
relaxed atmosphere.
Leave Sneem on the N70 for Killarney. Pass through the picturesque
villages of Parknasilla and Templenoe and the next town you'll enter
is the heritage town of Kenmare, which is regarded as the "The Jewel
on the Ring of Kerry". Stroll around its charming streets to find
out why.
If not, continue north on the N71 for the last leg of the journey.
The views you will see on this part of your journey will simply take
your breath away. Pull over at Molls Gap viewing park and admire the
MacGillycuddy Reeks and the glaciated Black Valley.
Further along the road you will come to 'Ladies View', one of the
most beautiful views of the three Killarney Lakes and the National
Park. It is so called, because when Queen Victoria came to Killarney
in 1861, her ladies-in-waiting were overwhelmed by the view they saw
from here.
And finally to Killarney, famed the world over, for its unequalled
beauty. You could easily spend a day in Killarney exploring its
attractions, and you'd still have not seen everything. If you are
short on time though, visit Muckross House and Gardens, Ross Castle,
Torc Waterfall the National Park.
Wrap up a day of driving with a nice meal in one of Killarney's many
award-winning restaurants, followed by a lively traditional Irish
music session in one of the local pubs. The town has a buzzing
nightlife scene and a warm and friendly atmosphere. It offers so
much to see and do, so it's easy to see why it is one of Ireland's
best-loved tourist resorts.
Please view our Photo Gallery from the Menu Bar.
