A visit to the Ring of Kerry is one of the must-do’s of any trip to Ireland. Do you need information on how to organize your trip? Just click here!
The Ring of Kerry is a tour that passes through some of Ireland’s wildest and most picturesque landscapes. Located on Kerry’s Iveragh Peninsula, The Ring of Kerry is a must-do not to be missed. From mountain passes to jagged islands, from beaches to traditional Irish village pubs, you’ll understand why this 180 km loop is one of Ireland’s most popular routes! To help you make the most of your tour, here’s all the advice you’ll need to visit the Ring of Kerry from Cork: points of interest, budget, bookings, access…
History of the Oval of Kerry
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Doing the Ring of Kerry is an opportunity to discover the natural and cultural heritage of this region of Ireland. On the programme: old forts, ancient monasteries, high peaks, rock structures over ten thousand years old, ancient pilgrimage sites of Christian monks (Skellig Michael) and some of the oldest fossil footprints.
Our tips for visiting the Ring of Kerry
What’s the best place to start?
To visit the Ring of Kerry from Cork, you need to get to the starting point of your tour. From there, anything is possible, but it’s common to start the loop in Killarney. To complete your 180 km journey, you’ll take the N 70, N 71 and N 72.
How long is the ideal time to visit the Ring of Kerry?
Although the tour can be completed in one day, or even half a day, it’s clear that the real charm comes when you allow yourself time to savor each stage. The ideal length of time is therefore up to you, but visiting the Ring of Kerry in two days seems a good compromise. This gives you plenty of time to appreciate the beauty of the landscape, have a drink in a pub and chat with the locals.
What’s the best way to get to the Ring of Kerry?
It’s also possible to complete the loop by bike or bus, notably with Bus Eireann.
Nevertheless, the car is the mode of transport that offers the greatest freedom of movement, while still allowing you to visit the Ring of Kerry quickly. But remember to fill up as soon as you can, as the route rarely brings you across a gas station! You should also be aware of the need for caution on the road. Between the narrowness of the lanes, the sometimes heavy traffic and the conduct of tourists, which often leaves something to be desired, it’s best to be cautious and courteous!
What to see and do in the Oval of Kerry?
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It’s hard to pick out the stages and point out the things you shouldn’t miss, because the tour is so full of treasures! So don’t hesitate to let your instincts speak for themselves and get off the beaten track. If, however, you’d like to start with a more specific framework, here are the traditional steps you need to take to visit the Ring of Kerry.
Circuit example
The first days
- Killarney: whether it’s food or music, you’re in for a treat. Push open the door of a pub, and let yourself be carried away by the energy of this town. If you have the time, stroll through the gardens of Muckross House and admire the 19th-century manor house.
- Killorglin: in this town, where every year a wild goat is crowned king, you may be lucky enough to pass through during the Puck Fair, the country’s oldest festival. The best thing about Killorglin is its view of Carrauntoohil, Ireland’s highest peak.
- Rossbeigh Beach: Rossbeigh Beach is just a 15-minute drive west on the N70. Surrounded by mountains and hills, this stretch of sand is well worth a walk, swim or surf!
- Cahersiveen: almost at the edge of Europe, this place is a real change of scenery. Don’t miss a visit to the 7th-century fort, Ballycarbery Castle and the old barracks dating from the late 19th century, all set against the backdrop of Mount Bentee.
- Waterville: nestled between sea and mountains, this town is not only Charlie Chaplin’s place to relax, it’s also one of the best places on the planet for stargazing!
The last days
- Derrynane: tread the white sands of Derrynane beach and take time to breathe and walk! Once you’re full of good energy, come and visit Derrynane House, a superb 19th-century mansion, and get lost in the woods of its estate.
- Sneem: head east along the coast to reach the adorable, colorful and authentic village of Sneem. Stroll through the streets and let yourself be lulled by the sound of the river, which divides Sneem into two parts.
- Kenmare: this town is the perfect place to sample succulent seafood dishes, do a little shopping or visit an art gallery. There’s nothing to stop you from stopping off at one of the many pubs, whose unique atmosphere never fails to impress.
- Moll’s Gap: the mountain scenery is absolutely breathtaking. Choose the spot you like to take the time to appreciate the beauty of this panorama, between mountains, lakes and rivers.
- Lakes of Killarney: drive through Killarney National Park and take time to admire the hills, forests, Owengarriff River, Ladie’s View, Torc Waterfall, Muckross Lake, Lough Leane and Ross Castle.
Activities at the Oval of Kerry
Visiting the Ring of Kerry can be done in half a day or a week. If you’re lucky enough to be able to take your time, you can add to the list of must-sees a few suggestions for equally interesting escapades:
- Kerry Way: over 200 km from Killarney, for experienced walkers only.
- Cycling in Killarney National Park or touring it in a traditional horse-drawn carriage
- Visit the old Staigue fort, west of Sneem
- Take an 8 km mountain hike from Kate Kearney’s Cottage to the Gap of Dunloe.
- Charlie Chaplin Festival in Waterville
- Golf at Killorglin, one of Ireland’s most picturesque towns
- Skellig Ring tour: to the east of the peninsula, to discover its wonders (beaches, Valentia Island, Skellig Michael…).
How much does a ticket to the Oval of Kerry cost?
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If you prefer to visit the Ring of Kerry on an organized tour, there are many platforms offering day tickets. The average cost is :
- From Killarney: €30 per adult
- From Cork: €45 per adult
- Note that some platforms offer special rates for students, seniors or children.
How do I book a ticket for the Oval of Kerry online?
It’s easy to book an excursion ticket online:
- On the Cork or Killarney tourist office website
- Via online activity booking platforms
The tour is by bus:
From Killarney: average time six or seven hours
From Cork: average time ten hours
A shuttle service is usually available to take you from Killarney or Cork bus or train station to the bus departure point. An English-speaking guide is also available for the group.
Are tours combined with other locations available?
You can combine the Ring of Kerry with a visit to Valentia Island and the Skellig Ring, at the end of the Iveragh Peninsula. For around €45 per adult, you’ll plunge deeper into wild Ireland than ever before, and experience the power of nature in its purest form.
How do I get to the Oval of Kerry from Cork?
By bus
Timetable: the first bus leaves at 8:30 am and the last at 8:30 pm. There is a departure approximately every hour. On Sundays, the first bus leaves at 10:30 a.m.
Duration: approx. 1h40.
Prices: €14.25 per adult and €8.55 per child.
The most convenient starting point for visiting the Ring of Kerry is Killarney. To get there from Cork, you can take the No. 40 bus from Parnell Place station. The bus will drop you off at the Killarney bus station or at the Rock Rd Council Office.
By train
Timetable: first departure at 6.25 a.m. and last departure at 8.55 p.m. Monday to Saturday; between 8.55 a.m. and 7.25 p.m. on Sundays.
Duration: approx. 1 hour 20 minutes.
Fares: between €11 and €20 per adult, depending on dates and times.
Killarney can also be reached by train from Cork Kent station.
By rental car
If you’ve decided to visit the Ring of Kerry by car, it might make more sense to rent your car on arrival at the airport or in Cork city center.
Where to stay in Cork for the Ring of Kerry?
Everyone can visit the Ring of Kerry at their own pace. Some will choose to stay in Cork and do the loop in a day. Others prefer to take their time and make one or more stops along the way. In the latter case, it’s difficult to list all the possible choices.
If, on the other hand, you’d like to visit the Ring of Kerry for the day, it’s already easier to give you a few tips on choosing your accommodation. Whether you’re looking for a place to stay in the bustling city center, in peaceful Shandon or in the colorful villages on the outskirts of Cork, you’ll be charmed by this city.