Want to take an epic Road trip? The Ring of Kerry and Skellig Ring in Ireland is one of the most picturesque drives out there! This travel guide is the ultimate itinerary for your trip. Not just what to see, but also fill you in on some tips and tricks to make your vacation epic!
This drive is just 111 miles long — 179 kilometers. The Skellig ring tacks on 20 additional miles — 32 kilometers. Meaning, you can complete the drive in a few hours -- BUT DON’T. The perfect timeline is 3 days. You will start your trip in Killarney, a lively town about a 3.5 to 4 hour drive from Dublin. Get there the day before you kick off your road trip.
Hit the road early. Pro tip — drive the Ring of Kerry in a clockwise direction. Tour buses drive anti-clockwise and you don’t want to get stuck behind them on the road.
Road Trip Day 1:
1. Torc Waterfall in Killarney National Park
It’s 66 feet tall and 360 feet long.
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2. Ladies View
The name stems from the admiration of the view given by Queen Victoria’s ladies-in-waiting during her visit to Ireland in 1861.
3. Molls Gap
This viewpoint is a mountain pass with views of the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks mountains -- Ireland's highest mountain range soaring over 3,000 feet.
4. Kenmare
An adorable village with plenty of shops, restaurants and pubs to discover.
While there visit Kenmare stone circle and Cromwell’s Bridge.
5. Derrynane Beach
A sandy beach and beautiful waters.
6. Derrynane Abbey
Explore the Derrynane beach at low tide when the water recedes far enough to give you access to the Derrynane Abbey, believed to be built in the 6th century.
7. Loher Stone Fort
Originally constructed in the 800’s, it has a great view of surrounding hills and the ocean.
8. Waterville
If you time it just right, catching the sunset here is the perfect way to end your day. Stay the night here.
Road Trip Day 2: The Skellig Ring
9. Ballinskelligs castle
Constructed in the 16th century to protect Ballinskelligs bay from pirates.
10. The Kerry Cliffs
A tourist site with spectacular views on private land which is only accessible in season for a fee.
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11. Skellig Islands
A UNESCO World heritage site some may recognize from Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens. They are two islands that jut out above the Atlantic. Below are several companies that provide tours:
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12. Bray Head
A great walk that leads to a spectacular view of cliff and the Skellig Islands.
13. Geokaun mountain
Breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
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14. Tetrapod footprints
Animal tracks were created 385 million years ago.
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15. Valentia Island lighthouse
In operation since 1841 and used to be manned by a single keeper until its automation in 1947.
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16. Knightstown
The site of the first successful transatlantic telegraph cable.
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17. Portmagee
An adorable fishing village with a Main Street offering a handful of restaurants and pubs.
Stay the night here before heading out early the next morning.
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Road Trip Day 3
18. Leacanabuaile Stone Fort
A well preserved fort from the 9th century with an incredible view of the surrounding area.
19. Cahergall Stone Fort
Built around 600 A-D, it’s one of the best examples of early medieval stone forts on the Ring of Kerry.
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20. Killorglin
A Small town known for the Puck Fair festival which is held August 10-12 every year.
21. Killarney National Park
Offers many biking, walking and hiking trails. Plius some must-see sites:
Ross Castle
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Muckross Abbey
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Muckross House and Gardens
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22. Killarney
Take a walk down Main Street, choose a pub and have a pint and a meal in this lively town!
Things to note: Summer daylight hours in Ireland are long and a great way to see the most on the Ring of Kerry, but it’s also the busiest time of year for travelers. I recommend going in Spring or early Fall to avoid the crowds. You’ll have less hours of daylight, but if you use my 3 day guide, you’ll have plenty of time to see it all. Oh, and remember, drive on the left hand side of the road!
