Also known as the Iveragh Peninsula, the Ring of Kerry is an iconic 179-kilometre-long tourist trail through County Kerry. Part of the Wild Atlantic Way, the Ring of Kerry typically leads off from Killarney and continues clockwise through the splendiferous beauty of Ireland’s countryside, passing charming towns and villages, such as Sneem, Glenbeigh, Waterville and Killorglin.

The Ring of Kerry has attracted numerous photographers over the years thanks to its abundance of wildlife, coastal and river ecosystems and forested landscapes. You’ll find various reasons to stop along the way, from the rugged mountain scenery and picturesque lakes of Killarney National Park to the unique stone-strewn beach at Rossbeigh.

Keep an eye out for notable historic landmarks throughout the route, such as the John Golden Monument, Staigue Stone Fort and Kenmare Stone Circle. Keen golfers can also stop off at the stunning Ring of Kerry Golf Club, renowned for its views over the Beara Peninsula.

Getting there

The Ring of Kerry is a popular road trip route that’s best explored by hire car. Most travellers start in Killarney, one of the biggest towns on the route with its own train station. It’s 20 minutes from Kerry Airport or around 1.5 hours’ drive from Cork.