Encompassing some of Ireland’s most magnificent scenery, County Kerry hugs the south-west corner of the island. It’s home to many of the country’s highest mountains and the forested moorlands of Killarney National Park, all of which can be explored along the Ring of Kerry.
Things to do in Kerry
Centuries-old monastic settlements, cascading waterfalls and rugged mountain peaks - County Kerry should be on everyone’s bucket list.
Drive the Ring of Kerry. Taking in the rugged coastal landscapes of the Iveragh Peninsula, this 179-kilometre-long route is one of Ireland’s most spectacular scenic drives. Visit the 19th-century manor of Muckross House and explore its 1930s farmhouses before marvelling at the photogenic cascades of the Torc Waterfall. Along the way, you’ll encounter plunging cliffs, seaside villages and emerald green countryside within Killarney National Park.
Scale Ireland’s highest peak. Rising to 1,038 metres in height, Carrauntoohil lies near the heart of MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, Ireland’s tallest mountain range. From Cronin’s Yard, you can follow the hiking trail that ascends via the Devil’s Ladder to soak up the panoramic views from the summit or take the Eagle’s Nest route to see Ireland’s highest lake, Lough Cummeenoughter. For a more challenging adventure, embark on the 26-kilometre MacGillycuddy's Reeks Ridge Walk, which takes in the entire mountain range.
Visit Skellig Michael. Located off the coast of County Kerry is Skellig Michael, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed island home to a monastic settlement that dates back to the 6th century. Aboard a boat tour, you can visit Skellig Michael and explore its monastery ruins, with sightings of dolphins and seals along the way. Neighbouring Little Skellig is a designated nature reserve and home to a colony of northern gannets.
Getting around Kerry
Kerry Airport is the main aviation gateway to County Kerry and has flights to destinations across Europe while the much larger Cork Airport is 1.5 hours away. Trains connect to Killarney, Farranfore and Tralee from both Dublin and Cork, while buses serve smaller towns and villages throughout County Kerry. Renting a car is the best way to explore the Ring of Kerry.