THE RING OF KERRY
The Ring of Kerry is a legendary 179km coastal route, tracing the rugged edge of the Iveragh Peninsula. It’s a land where dramatic mountains meet the wild Atlantic, offering a spectacular mix of ancient history and breathtaking natural beauty.
This single-region journey showcases Ireland’s quintessential landscapes, from pristine beaches and lush national parks to charming villages and historic ruins, cementing its reputation as one of the world’s finest scenic drives.
Most Popular Attractions
Killarney National Park & Core Attractions:
Muckross House, Gardens & Traditional Farms: A stunning Victorian mansion and working farm offering a glimpse into 19th-century Irish life, surrounded by spectacular gardens.
Torc Waterfall: A powerful, 20-meter high cascade easily accessible from the main Ring of Kerry road.
Ross Castle: A magnificent, well-preserved 15th-century tower house on the edge of Lough Leane.
Ladies View: A famous viewpoint offering a panoramic vista of the Killarney Lakes and the Black Valley.
Gap of Dunloe: A narrow, dramatic mountain pass carved by a glacier, popular for traditional pony-and-trap tours.
Muckross Abbey: A beautiful, ruined Franciscan friary founded in the 15th century, with a famous yew tree in the cloister.
Innisfallen Island: The largest island on Lough Leane, home to the ruins of an ancient monastery founded in the 7th century.
Coastal Villages & Atlantic Views:
Kenmare: A picturesque, colorful heritage town known for its gourmet food, beautiful bay, and stone circles.
Waterville: A charming coastal village located on Ballinskelligs Bay, famous for its connections to Charlie Chaplin.
Sneem: A beautifully unique village noted for its brightly painted houses and pyramid-shaped church spire.
Derrynane House, National Historic Park & Beach: The ancestral home of Daniel O’Connell, “The Liberator,” surrounded by a stunning park and beach.
Portmagee: A lively fishing village and the main departure point for boat trips to the Skellig Islands.
Cahersiveen: A historic town famous for being the birthplace of Daniel O’Connell, featuring the imposing ruins of an old barracks.
Valencia Island: A beautiful island connected to the mainland by bridge, offering stunning cliffs, the Valentia Island Lighthouse, and the Skellig Experience Centre.
Ancient History & Heritage Sites:
Staigue Stone Fort: One of the finest examples of a large, circular, dry-stone fort in Ireland, dating back to the late Iron Age.
Dromberg Stone Circle: An impressive and well-preserved stone circle near the coast, an important prehistoric ritual site.
Skellig Michael & Little Skellig: A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring a remarkably preserved early Christian monastery perched dramatically on a steep rock island (accessible by boat, weather permitting).
Eyeries: A village known for its distinctive, vibrant, colorful houses, offering great views of the Beara Peninsula.
Cahergall Stone Fort: A well-reconstructed circular stone fort offering excellent views of the surrounding landscape.
Leacanabuaile Stone Fort: A smaller, well-preserved stone ringfort located close to Cahergall.
Kerry Bog Village: A preserved cluster of traditional thatched cottages offering a glimpse into 19th-century rural life in Kerry.
Activities & Experiences
Drive the Ring of Kerry Scenic Route: Dedicate a full day to driving the main route. Start early and drive counter-clockwise to avoid getting stuck behind tour buses (which are required to drive clockwise).
Visit the Skellig Islands: Take a boat trip from Portmagee to the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Skellig Islands. Visit Skellig Michael to see the incredibly preserved early Christian monastic settlement and the puffin colony (seasonal), or take an eco-tour for a closer look.
Explore the Killarney National Park: Hike, cycle, or drive through this vast park, visiting landmarks like the Torc Waterfall, the historic Muckross House and Gardens, and the serene Lough Leane.
Kiss the Stone at Ross Castle: Visit the iconic 15th-century tower house on the edge of Lough Leane and learn about its history and legends, perhaps even kissing the stone for good luck (though climbing the tower is the main draw).
Stargaze in a Dark Sky Reserve: Spend an evening in the Kerry International Dark-Sky Reserve on the Iveragh Peninsula. It’s one of only four Gold Tier reserves in the world, offering incredible views of the Milky Way.
Walk the Derrynane Beach and House: Stroll along the beautiful sandy beach, then visit Derrynane House, the ancestral home of Irish nationalist Daniel O’Connell, and its surrounding subtropical gardens.
Cycle the Carrauntoohil Footpaths: For the adventurous, hike Ireland’s highest peak, Carrauntoohil, or cycle the flatter paths around its base, enjoying the dramatic MacGillycuddy’s Reeks mountain range.
Stop at the Ladies View: Pull over at this famous vantage point on the N71 road between Kenmare and Killarney. It offers one of the most magnificent panoramic views of the Lakes of Killarney.
Enjoy a Seaweed Bath in Waterville: Experience a unique Irish tradition with a hot bath in seaweed, which is said to have therapeutic and detoxifying benefits.
Explore Kenmare: Spend an afternoon in this picturesque, colorful market town. Browse the local craft shops, enjoy a traditional pub lunch, and visit the nearby Kenmare Stone Circle.
Take a Jaunting Car Ride in Killarney: Experience a classic tourist activity by taking a horse-drawn ‘jaunting car’ through the Gap of Dunloe or to Ross Castle, led by a local ‘Jarvey’ who provides entertaining commentary.
Go Surfing or Kayaking in Ballinskelligs Bay: The Atlantic coast offers great watersports. Take a surfing lesson at a local school or rent a kayak to explore the coves and clear waters.
Local Tips & Transport
Driving is Best (with a Caveat): The Ring of Kerry is best experienced with the freedom of a rental car. However, be prepared for narrow, winding roads, often with stone walls on both sides. Confidence in driving on the left is essential.
Mind the Tour Buses: Large tour buses traditionally drive the main Ring of Kerry route anti-clockwise to avoid meeting other buses on narrow stretches.
Local Tip for Drivers: To avoid getting stuck behind tour buses or having to constantly pull over for them, it is highly recommended that private cars drive the route in a clockwise direction (starting south from Killarney towards Kenmare). This puts you on the inner lane facing oncoming buses, but you’ll have an easier time pulling in for them.
Public Transport & Tours:
Bus Éireann and Local Link provide limited public bus services connecting the main towns (Killarney, Kenmare, Waterville, etc.). This is generally too slow and infrequent for a full tour of the Ring.
Coach Tours depart daily, mainly from Killarney, offering a relaxed way to see the highlights without the stress of driving. They follow the anti-clockwise route.
Trains: The main railway station is in Killarney, connecting to other major Irish cities. Once on the Ring, the train is not a viable transport option.
Active Travel:
Cycling: The Ring of Kerry is a popular cycling route, with rentals available in Killarney and Kenmare. Be mindful of traffic and steep climbs.
The Kerry Way: This dedicated walking trail offers a fantastic way to explore the region over multiple days, bypassing busy roads.
The Weather is Unpredictable: Kerry is on the Wild Atlantic Way and is known for its rapidly changing weather. Always pack layers and high-quality waterproof gear. A sunny morning can turn into a downpour in minutes.
Embrace the Cosiness (Céad Míle Fáilte): Irish hospitality (Céad Míle Fáilte – ‘a hundred thousand welcomes’) is genuine. Take time to stop in the smaller villages like Sneem and Waterville. Engage with locals in the pubs; they are often the best source of advice and stories.
Dining Culture: Dinner is typically eaten earlier than in continental Europe, often between 6 PM and 9 PM. Pubs frequently serve high-quality food, known as “pub grub,” which ranges from traditional Irish stew and fish & chips to modern cuisine.
Pub Etiquette and Traditional Music:
The Pint: Take your time with a pint of Guinness—it’s an experience. Don’t rush the bar staff as they pour it; it takes time to settle.
Trad Sessions: Look for signs for “Traditional Music” or “Trad Sessions” in the evenings. These are usually informal, intimate gatherings of local musicians. Be quiet and respectful while they play.
Hidden Gems & Detours:
The Skellig Ring: This popular detour off the main Ring of Kerry loop is a must-do for spectacular coastal scenery, passing through Portmagee and offering views of the Skellig Islands (much of this road is too narrow for buses).
Valentia Island: Accessible by bridge from Portmagee, it offers the Skellig Experience Centre and stunning views from the Bray Head Loop.
Waterville’s Charlie Chaplin Connection: The famous silent film star was a frequent visitor to Waterville, and a bronze statue honours him on the seafront promenade.
Language: English is the official language, but the Irish language (Gaeilge) is part of the local culture, especially in certain areas like the Kerry Gaeltacht (Irish-speaking region). You will see road signs in both Irish and English. Learning simple phrases like Dia dhuit (Dee-a Gwit – Hello) will be appreciated.
Top Restaurants
Moorings Bridgeview Gallery [$15-$25] – A cozy and unpretentious spot in Portmagee known for its fresh Atlantic seafood and harbor views, serving locals and travelers alike.
The Bridge Bar [$15-$25] – A legendary pub in Portmagee famous for its traditional music sessions and hearty portions of fresh-off-the-boat fish and chips.
The Oratory Pizza & Wine Bar [$20-$30] – Set inside a converted chapel in Cahersiveen, this unique eatery serves excellent wood-fired pizzas with a focus on local toppings in a stunning historic setting.
The Blind Piper [$20-$30] – A quintessentially Irish pub in Caherdaniel offering a warm peat fire and classic pub fare like beef and Guinness stew.
O’Neill’s The Point Seafood Bar [$20-$30] – Located right on the water’s edge at Renard Point near Cahersiveen, this no-frills spot is renowned for its ultra-fresh mussels and crab claws.
Petit Delice [$15-$25] – A charming French-style bakery and café in Killarney town center that is a local favorite for authentic pastries and light lunch tartines.
Bricín Restaurant [$25-$35] – Tucked away in Killarney, this upstairs restaurant specializes in “boxty” (traditional Irish potato pancakes) and offers a deeply nostalgic, rustic atmosphere.
The Red Fox Inn [$20-$30] – Situated next to the Kerry Bog Village in Glenbeigh, this traditional tavern serves massive portions of Irish stew and is a perfect mid-drive stop.
Kate Kearney’s Cottage [$20-$30] – Located at the entrance to the Gap of Dunloe, this historic establishment offers a rustic setting for traditional bacon and cabbage or shepherd’s pie.
Jack’s Coastguard Station [$25-$40] – A historic building in Cromane with sweeping views of Castlemaine Harbour, offering a high-quality menu centered on locally sourced shellfish.
QC’s Seafood Bar [$25-$40] – A stylish but relaxed family-run establishment in Cahersiveen that serves sustainable, wild-caught fish sourced directly from their own boats.
The Scarriff Inn [$20-$30] – Boasting what many call the “best view in Ireland,” this pub in Caherdaniel overlooks Derrynane Bay and serves reliable, traditional Irish comfort food.
Teddy O’Sullivan’s [$15-$25] – A local hidden gem in Bunaw, on the Kenmare River side of the ring, where the mussels are harvested just meters from your table.
The Anvil Bar [$20-$30] – Located in the village of Boolteens, this is a classic stop for those entering the ring, known for its friendly service and great Sunday roasts.
Murphy’s of Killarney [$20-$30] – A bustling, central Killarney pub that manages to maintain an authentic local feel while serving excellent fish and chips and Irish lamb.
The Lobster Bar [$25-$40] – A bright and welcoming spot in Waterville that lives up to its name, offering fresh local lobster and a great selection of Irish craft beers.
The Fishery [$20-$35] – A bright, nautical-themed restaurant in Sneem that provides generous helpings of local salmon and hake with a view of the village green.
O’Shea’s Ceili House [$20-$30] – An old-school pub in Killarney where the food is simple, the Guinness is cold, and the atmosphere is thick with local history.
The Lake Hotel Bar [$25-$40] – Located on the shores of Lough Leane in Killarney, this bar offers a casual way to enjoy high-quality local venison with incredible views of the ruins of McCarthy Mór Castle.
The Smugglers Inn [$25-$40] – Perched on the cliffs in Waterville, this restaurant offers a focused menu of wild Atlantic seafood with spectacular views of Ballinskelligs Bay.
No. 35 Kenmare [$35-$55] – A stylish restaurant in Kenmare that uses pork from their own family farm and focuses on a “farm-to-fork” modern Irish philosophy.
The Mad Monk [$30-$50] – A contemporary seafood spot in Killarney that elevates local catches with modern techniques and an impressive wine list.
Rozzers Restaurant [$40-$60] – Located within the Beechwood House in Glenbeigh, this award-winning spot offers a refined take on Irish ingredients with a modern, creative flair.
Mulcahy’s Wild Atlantic Diner [$30-$50] – A Kenmare staple that blends high-end ingredients with a casual, modern atmosphere, focusing on seasonal Kerry produce.
The Lime Tree [$35-$55] – Housed in an 1830s building in Kenmare, this restaurant provides a sophisticated menu featuring innovative treatments of Irish lamb and monkfish.
Treyvaud’s [$30-$50] – A family-run international restaurant in Killarney that focuses on game dishes and fresh local fish with a modern, pan-European twist.
Kingdom Food & Wine [$30-$50] – A small, trendy bistro in Killorglin that offers a rotating menu of creative dishes highlighting the best of the local artisan producers.
The Phoenix [$25-$45] – An eclectic and creative vegetarian-friendly restaurant in Castlemaine that uses organic vegetables from their own garden to create vibrant, modern meals.
The Boathouse Bistro [$30-$50] – Located in Kenmare, this spot offers a modern, airy atmosphere and a menu that focuses on creative presentations of classic Kerry shellfish.
Bistro 41 [$25-$45] – A contemporary spot in Killarney town that offers a diverse menu, blending local Irish ingredients with Mediterranean and Asian influences.
Khow Thai [$25-$45] – A high-quality Thai restaurant in Killarney that provides a fresh, modern alternative to traditional pub food, using local seafood in authentic curries.
The Terrace at The Europe [$40-$70] – A stunning modern space in Killarney overlooking the lakes, offering a sophisticated menu of grilled meats and fresh salads in a world-class setting.
The Falls Restaurant [$70-$120] – Located in Kenmare’s Sheen Falls Lodge, this elegant dining room offers a high-end experience overlooking the cascading Sheen waterfalls.
The Park Hotel Dining Room [$80-$130] – A bastion of old-world luxury in Kenmare, offering a formal, meticulously crafted tasting menu that highlights the best of Irish luxury ingredients.
Danú Restaurant [$60-$90] – Situated in The Brehon, Killarney, this restaurant offers a sophisticated fine-dining experience with a focus on contemporary Irish culinary art.
The Oak Room [$70-$110] – An upscale, intimate dining room in Killarney’s Victoria House Hotel, known for its refined service and excellent selection of Irish dry-aged steaks.
The Panorama Restaurant [$70-$100] – Located in Killarney with sweeping views of the National Park, this restaurant offers a formal, high-end menu featuring local mountain lamb.
Packie’s [$50-$80] – A beloved, high-end bistro in Kenmare that has maintained a reputation for excellence for decades, focusing on sophisticated, well-executed local seafood.
Muckross Garden Restaurant [$15-$30] – Set in the historic Muckross House grounds in Killarney, this is the perfect spot for a high-quality lunch or afternoon tea in a majestic setting.
The Strawberry Field [$15-$25] – A quirky pancake cottage tucked away in the mountains near Sneem, famous for its sweet and savory crepes and eclectic decor.
Skelligs Chocolate Café [$10-$20] – Located in Ballinskelligs, this isn’t a full restaurant, but a must-visit for its unique hot chocolates and desserts overlooking the Skellig Islands.
The Wild Knead [$15-$25] – A small artisan bakery in Glenbeigh offering sourdough pizzas and unique pastries that reflect the rugged spirit of the coastline.
Derrynane House Tea Rooms [$15-$25] – Located in the ancestral home of Daniel O’Connell in Caherdaniel, offering a unique, historic atmosphere for a light, local lunch.
The Blue Bull [$30-$50] – A historic pub in Sneem that has been revitalized into a gastro-pub, blending traditional charm with a high-quality, diverse menu.
Solas Tapas [$25-$45] – A unique find in Dingle-adjacent Kenmare, offering Spanish-style tapas but using exclusively Irish ingredients like Clonakilty black pudding and Kerry goat cheese.
The Boathouse at Dromquinna [$30-$50] – A stunning, waterside bistro in Kenmare set in a 19th-century boathouse, offering a relaxed, maritime atmosphere and great wood-fired food.
Avoca Handweavers Moll’s Gap [$20-$35] – A café with a view that is hard to beat, located at the highest point of the Ring of Kerry, serving high-quality, homemade Irish salads and soups.
The Moorings [$30-$50] – A multi-concept space in Portmagee that celebrates the Star Wars filming history of the area while serving excellent local seafood.
The Horseshoe Bar & Restaurant [$25-$45] – A lively, central Kenmare spot that bridges the gap between a traditional pub and a high-quality steakhouse.
The Rambling House [$20-$35] – A traditional spot in Sneem that feels like stepping back in time, offering simple, honest food and a genuine Kerry welcome.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Pig’s Lane Killarney: An award-winning underground bar in Killarney’s town centre, known for its hand-crafted cocktails, extensive whiskey parlour (400+ bottles), and live music from both established and emerging artists/DJs.
The Lane Bar (The Ross Hotel, Killarney): Located in Killarney town centre, this stylish bar offers a cool, quirky ambiance with creative cocktails, an all-day food menu with contemporary twists, and a lively soundtrack that changes from day to night.
Cocktail Bar (The Europe Hotel & Resort, Killarney): Situated in the luxurious Europe Hotel on the shores of the Lakes of Killarney, this bar offers a sophisticated setting to enjoy handcrafted cocktails with a beautiful backdrop.
Cocktail Bar (Park Hotel Kenmare): An elegant bar in the luxury Park Hotel Kenmare, offering a refined atmosphere, nightly live piano music, and a cocktail menu featuring unique, locally-inspired creations like the Blue Bottle Espresso Martini.
Killarney Brewing & Distilling Co. Bar & Restaurant (Killarney): Located just outside Killarney town, this spot features a bar with views of the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks and Lakes of Killarney, offering handcrafted cocktails and the freshest beer on tap from the on-site brewery and distillery.
The Blue Bottle Cocktail Bar (Killarney Plaza Hotel, Killarney): Located within the Killarney Plaza Hotel in the heart of Killarney, this bar offers a contemporary and sophisticated spot for a creative cocktail.
The Killarney Park Hotel Bar (Killarney): An elegant and luxurious hotel bar in the heart of Killarney town, offering a cozy fire, comfortable seating, and a selection of cocktails and fine spirits.
Café Du Parc (Killarney Plaza Hotel, Killarney): A vibrant bar & café inspired by Parisian culture, located in Killarney town, offering a perfect spot for ‘people-watching’ and dazzling cocktails in the evening.
The Horseshoe Bar & Restaurant (Kenmare): An intimate and atmospheric venue at the bottom of Main Street in Kenmare, offering a welcoming bar with an extensive range of drinks, including cocktails, perfect for soaking up the Kenmare vibe.
Celtic Whiskey Bar & Larder (Killarney): While renowned for its vast selection of Irish and World Whiskeys (over 1,300), this bar in Killarney also offers virtual cocktail classes and a full bar menu.
J.M. Reidy’s (Killarney): A beautifully restored, multi-faceted venue in the heart of Killarney town that features a ‘Cocktail Snug’ among its various rooms and a fairy-lit courtyard, perfect for enjoying a classic or house cocktail.
The Tan Yard Bar (The Plaza Hotel, Killarney): A bar within The Plaza Hotel in Killarney, offering a sophisticated setting with a focus on high-quality ingredients and experiential dining and drink.
Hannigans Bar, Restaurant & Terrace (The International Hotel, Killarney): A versatile spot in Killarney town centre, offering a comfortable setting for drinks, including cocktails, with occasional live music.
O’Donoghue Public House (Killarney): Lovingly restored to an authentic traditional Irish pub in Killarney’s town centre, this venue offers a full bar service, including modern drinks, in a historic, atmospheric setting.
The Atlantic Bar (Kenmare): One of Kenmare’s oldest pubs, known for its traditional craic, live music, and good pub food, but also serving a full range of drinks in a friendly, authentic setting.
The Killarney Grand (Killarney): A major nightlife venue in Killarney town, featuring a traditional music bar, a live band venue, a purpose-built Piano Bar, and a dedicated Nightclub where you can “dance till you drop” to late hours.
The Venue (Gleneagle Hotel, Killarney): Located at the Gleneagle Hotel, a short distance from Killarney town, this large entertainment complex often hosts major events, concerts, and transforms into a lively Late Night Venue/Club on various nights.
J.M. Reidy’s (Killarney): A popular late bar and venue in the heart of Killarney, spread over multiple rooms with different vibes, including party nights and an atmospheric courtyard, often staying open later than traditional pubs.
Pig’s Lane Killarney: While primarily a cocktail bar, its subterranean setting and late opening hours on weekends (until 2 am) with DJs and live artists make it one of Killarney’s trendier late-night spots.
The Laurels Pub & Restaurant (Killarney): A warm, traditional Killarney pub in the town centre that offers a late bar experience, known for its lively atmosphere, hearty food, and as a meeting place for both locals and tourists.
Courtney’s Bar (Killarney): A classic, traditional wood-lined bar in the heart of Killarney town, known for its old-world atmosphere, extensive drink selection (including whiskey flights), and often features DJs or traditional music sessions at weekends, acting as a late bar.
Murphy’s Bar, Restaurant & Townhouse (Killarney): A well-known venue on College Street in Killarney, popular with locals and tourists, often serving as a lively late bar with a good atmosphere.
Tatler Jack (Killarney): A lively pub and B&B in Killarney, frequently mentioned for its late hours and energetic atmosphere, popular for watching sports and enjoying a late-night pint.
The Shire Bar & Cafe (Killarney): This Lord of the Rings-themed bar in Killarney town centre is known for its cosy atmosphere, unique decor, and often serves as a popular late-night spot, particularly with a younger crowd.
The Atlantic Bar (Kenmare): One of the few venues outside Killarney offering genuinely late hours on weekends (until 1 am on Friday and Saturday), known for its friendly atmosphere and live music.
PF McCarthy’s Bar & Restaurant (Kenmare): An old and popular establishment in Kenmare, known for its traditional music sessions (traditional, rock, folk) and a large beer garden, often operating as a lively late bar, especially at weekends.
The Top of Coom (Kilgarvan/near Kenmare): Ireland’s highest pub, a traditional family-run spot famed for its traditional Irish music sessions and remote, stunning location, operating as a late bar on Friday and Saturday nights (until 12:30 am).
O’Donoghue Public House (Killarney): A traditional Irish pub experience in Killarney, offering a late bar with “craic agus ceol” (fun and music) and a focus on traditional Irish hospitality.
Buckley’s Bar (Arbutus Hotel, Killarney): The bar of the Arbutus Hotel in Killarney, known for nightly traditional Irish music sessions, making it a lively late bar destination for those seeking authentic Irish entertainment.
The Grand Nightclub (Killarney Grand): This is the specific late-night dance club component within The Killarney Grand venue.