Explore ancient monuments, romantic castles, spectacular gardens and colourful towns and villages. You won't want to leave...
For many people around the world, the Ring of Kerry drive encapsulates their image of Ireland. The spectacular scenery, dramatic coastline, colourful towns and villages and ancient archaeological treasures have been featured in postcards, film, poetry and song. Each twist and turn on the road will reveal new sights - windswept cliffs, breathtaking scenery, spectacular lakes, rich flora and fauna, green and yellow chequered hills and unspoilt beaches. It is said that the landscape varies a hundred times in 100 kilometres.
There is evidence of the region's unique heritage and culture everywhere, in the place names, the standing stones and the many archaeological sites. Visit the 6th century beehive huts on Skellig Michael - UNESCO World Heritage Site, the stone forts at Cahersiveen and Castlecove, the Neolithic stone circle in Kenmare, the 15th century Ballycarberry Castle, the magnificent O'Connell Memorial Church, Derrynane House and Gardens, or visit the pretty 19th century Heritage town, Kenmare.
The area is also full of culinary delights, from the superb cheeses, superb seafood and shellfish, to the succulent lamb and hearty homemade breads. As you travel the Ring of Kerry the diversity and quality of the restaurants in the various towns will delight you. Killorglin and Portmagee are home to some of the best in Kerry and the concentration of eateries in Kenmare has earned it the title of the only town in Ireland with more restaurants than pubs.
It's not just chefs who are inspired by the region. Artists, writers and sculptors abound, with craft shops and galleries such as Cill Rialaig showcasing their best works. The Ring of Kerry offers a variety of activities, from walking and cycling routes and adventures sports, to its array of championship golf courses - Waterville (An Coireán), Dooks, Kenmare and Killorglin - to name but a few. The region is world famous for its superb diving and angling, with Lough Currane in Waterville being famous for its sea trout with 90% of specimen sea trout caught here! Sneem is a beautiful scenic village where you can partake in some interesting and delightful walks.
The Iveragh Gaeltacht (Uíbh Ráthach) is are renowned for its breathtaking coastal and mountain scenery, with magnificent views of the Skellig Rocks.
The Ring of Kerry is truly a voyage of discovery. The coastal roads provide an ever-changing landscape around the Iveragh Peninsula, with snapshots of the famous offshore islands popping in and out of view around every corner - it is a must for all visitors to Ireland.
Wherever you go you'll be drawn into conversation. The people of Kerry are renowned for their laid back lifestyle and you'll be guaranteed a warm welcome wherever you go.