Ring of Kerry – Ireland’s Iconic Scenic Loop

Overview

The Ring of Kerry (Irish: An Cuar Chuain) is a 179 km (111 mi) scenic circuit that loops the Iveragh Peninsula in southwest County Kerry. Starting and ending in the lively town of Killarney, the drive follows the N71 south to Kenmare, then the N70 around the coast through Sneem, Waterville, Cahersiveen, Glenbeigh, and Killorglin before returning to Killarney via the N72. The route showcases a blend of rugged Atlantic cliffs, rolling green hills, sparkling lakes, and a string of historic towns and monuments.

History & Background

The concept of a tourist loop dates back to the mid‑18th century when Viscount Kenmare tried to promote travel to his estate, but the route only gained traction after the railway reached Killarney in 1853. Since then the Ring has become one of Ireland’s most photographed drives, celebrated in Victorian travel writing and, more recently, in popular culture – the Skellig Ring detour featured in Star Wars: The Force Awakens.

What to See & Do

Key Attractions in Detail

• Killarney National Park – Ireland’s first national park (1932) covers 10,000 acres of lakes, mountains and ancient woodlands. Walk the Gap of Dunloe (5‑6 h hike) or take a boat from Kate Kearney’s Cottage to Lord Brandon’s Cottage for a classic valley experience.
• Ross Castle – Built in the late 15th century, the castle dominates the eastern shore of Lough Leane. Parking is available a few minutes from the castle; the site is free to explore on foot.
• Ladies View – The viewpoint earned its name when Queen Victoria’s ladies‑in‑waiting declared the scenery “the most beautiful they had ever seen”. A small car park sits directly beside the turn‑off; the view sweeps over the Lakes of Killarney and the surrounding peaks.
• Moll’s Gap – Named after Moll Kissane, who ran an unlicensed pub (a síbín) for road‑workers in the 1820s. The Avoca café provides coffee and restrooms for travelers.
• Staigue Stone Fort – One of Ireland’s largest ring forts, dating to 300‑400 AD. A seasonal coffee van and public toilet make the stop comfortable; a €1 coin is required for entry.
• Derrynane House – The 19th‑century home of the Liberator Daniel O’Connell, set in a coastal park with a Blue Flag beach. Guided tours reveal O’Connell’s political legacy.
• Skellig Ring Detour – An optional loop that adds Ballinskelligs, the Kerry Cliffs, Valentia Island, and the Coomanaspig Pass. The detour is well‑worth the extra 30 km for dramatic sea cliffs and the chance to spot puffins on the islands.

• Dark Sky Reserve – The Ring passes through one of the world’s few Gold Tier Dark Sky Reserves, offering unrivalled stargazing opportunities far from city lights.

Practical Information

Getting There & Around

• Start point: Killarney is the traditional start and finish. It is well‑served by rail (Dublin‑Killarney service) and by Kerry Airport (domestic and some European flights). Car hire is available at the airport and in Killarney.
• Driving direction: Tour buses run anti‑clockwise (Killarney → Killorglin → … → Killarney) and often have to wait for each other on narrow sections. Private drivers frequently choose a clockwise direction (Killarny → Kenmare first) to avoid bus traffic on the later, narrower stretches.
• Roads: The N71 and N70 are in good repair, but single‑track sections (e.g., the Conor Pass) only allow light vehicles. The official Ring of Kerry cycling route uses quieter side roads and is sign‑posted for cyclists.
• Parking: Most major stops have free car parks (Ross Castle, Muckross Abbey, Torc Waterfall, Ladies View, Moll’s Gap, Staigue Fort). Pay‑on‑entry sites include the Kerry Cliffs (€5‑€7) and Geokaun Mountain (€8).
• Public transport: No regular bus runs the full circuit; organized day‑trip buses operate in summer, departing from Killarney and other towns. For independent travel, a car is the most flexible option.

Opening Hours & Fees

• Staigue Stone Fort: Open year‑round; €1 coin for entry (seasonal coffee van available).
• Kerry Cliffs (private land): Open daily; €5‑€7 entry fee, steep 10‑minute walk to viewpoints.
• Geokaun Mountain & Fogher Cliffs (Valentia Island): Open daily; €8 entry, steep path to the summit.
• Muckross House: Open 9:30‑17:30 (summer); house entry €8, gardens free.
• Derrynane House: Open 10:00‑17:00 (summer); house entry €5, beach free.
• Dark Sky Reserve: No opening hours; best viewed after sunset on clear nights.

Seasonal Considerations

• Summer (June‑August): Highest visitor numbers; bus tours run frequently, and the Puck Fair in Killorglin (early August) draws crowds. Arriving early at popular spots like Torc Waterfall and the Kerry Cliffs helps avoid parking queues.
• Winter: Some attractions (e.g., the Kerry Cliffs private access) may have reduced hours; road conditions can be wet and windy, especially on exposed coastal sections.

Accessibility

• Most car parks and major attractions (Ross Castle, Muckross House, Torc Waterfall) are wheelchair‑friendly. The Kerry Way walking trail and the Gap of Dunloe are more challenging and may not be suitable for limited mobility.

Useful Links

• Official Ring of Kerry scenic drive map: Discover Ireland – Ring of Kerry
• Cycling route details: Ring of Kerry Cycle Route
• Dark Sky Reserve information: Kerry Dark Sky Tourism
• Bus operators (summer circuits): Wild Kerry, Deros, Paddy Wagon.

The Ring of Kerry offers a compact yet diverse showcase of Ireland’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. Whether you spend a single day cruising the coastal road or linger for a multi‑day exploration of the Skellig Ring, the peninsula’s dramatic landscapes and historic sites promise an unforgettable Irish adventure.