The Ring Of Kerry Ireland Map

If you are planning a trip to Ireland, the Ring of Kerry is a must-visit destination. This scenic drive takes you through some of Ireland’s most stunning landscapes, including rugged coastlines, rolling hills, and quaint villages. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will cover all the top attractions and hidden gems, as well as the best food scene, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, and much more.

Top Attractions

The Ring of Kerry is home to some of Ireland’s most iconic attractions. Visitors shouldn’t miss the Skellig Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage site that is home to ancient monastic ruins and a thriving bird population. Another must-visit destination is the Killarney National Park, which features stunning scenery, hiking trails, and the famous Muckross House and Gardens. Other top attractions include the Dingle Peninsula, the Gap of Dunloe, and the Torc Waterfall.

Hidden Gems

In addition to the top attractions, the Ring of Kerry is full of hidden gems that are worth exploring. One such gem is the Valentia Island, located off the coast of the Iveragh Peninsula. This picturesque island is home to stunning cliffs, secluded beaches, and the fascinating Valentia Island Heritage Center. Another hidden gem is the Gleninchaquin Park, a 700-acre nature reserve that is home to waterfalls, lakes, and hiking trails.

Food Scene

The Ring of Kerry is home to a vibrant food scene that showcases the best of Irish cuisine. Visitors should try the local seafood, including fresh oysters, mussels, and salmon. Other must-try dishes include traditional Irish stews, hearty soups, and homemade bread. For a unique dining experience, visitors can book a table at a local farm-to-table restaurant, where they can sample fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Traveling on a budget? There are plenty of ways to enjoy the Ring of Kerry without breaking the bank. Visitors can save money by booking accommodation in a hostel or guesthouse, rather than a hotel. They can also save money on food by shopping at local markets and cooking their own meals. Finally, visitors can save money on transportation by renting a bike or walking, rather than hiring a car.

Outdoor Adventures

The Ring of Kerry is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, kayaking, surfing, and much more. Hiking enthusiasts should check out the Kerry Way, a 214-kilometer hiking trail that takes visitors through some of Ireland’s most beautiful landscapes. For a more leisurely outdoor experience, visitors can explore the many beaches and parks along the Ring of Kerry.

Historical Landmarks

The Ring of Kerry is steeped in history, and visitors can explore many historical landmarks along the way. One such landmark is the Muckross Abbey, a medieval monastery that dates back to the 15th century. Another historical site worth visiting is the Staigue Fort, a well-preserved Iron Age fort that is over 2,000 years old. For a glimpse into Ireland’s more recent history, visitors can explore the Skellig Experience Visitor Center, which showcases the history of the Skellig Islands.

Family-Friendly Activities

The Ring of Kerry is a great destination for families, with plenty of fun activities for kids of all ages. One popular family-friendly activity is horseback riding, which allows visitors to explore the countryside on horseback. Families can also visit the Kerry Bog Village, a living museum that showcases life in rural Ireland in the 18th and 19th centuries. For a more adventurous family outing, visitors can try ziplining, kayaking, or surfing.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Experiences

The Ring of Kerry is full of off-the-beaten-path experiences that are worth seeking out. One such experience is the Cill Rialaig Arts Center, a remote arts center that is located in a restored 19th-century village. Visitors can explore the galleries, attend art classes, or simply enjoy the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Another off-the-beaten-path experience is the Skellig Michael Experience, which allows visitors to explore the Skellig Islands with a local guide.

Natural Wonders

The Ring of Kerry is home to some of Ireland’s most stunning natural wonders. Visitors can explore the Killarney National Park, which features over 10,000 hectares of stunning scenery, including lakes, waterfalls, and mountains. Another natural wonder worth visiting is the Gap of Dunloe, a narrow mountain pass that is surrounded by stunning scenery. Visitors can explore the gap on foot, by bike, or by horse-drawn carriage.

Vibrant Nightlife

The Ring of Kerry is home to a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of pubs, bars, and clubs to choose from. Visitors can enjoy live music, traditional Irish dancing, and much more. One popular spot is the Dick Mack’s Pub, a historic pub that has been serving drinks since 1899. Another popular spot is the INEC Killarney, a state-of-the-art music and entertainment venue.

Local Markets

The Ring of Kerry is home to many local markets, where visitors can shop for handmade crafts, local produce, and much more. One popular market is the Kenmare Farmers Market, which takes place every Wednesday and features over 50 stalls. Visitors can find everything from fresh produce to handmade jewelry. Another popular market is the Cahersiveen Market, which takes place on Fridays and features a wide range of local products.

Beaches and Mountains

The Ring of Kerry is home to some of Ireland’s most stunning beaches and mountains. Visitors can explore the Skellig Islands, which are home to some of Ireland’s most beautiful beaches. They can also hike the Kerry Way, which takes visitors through some of Ireland’s most stunning mountain landscapes. Other popular beaches include Ballybunion Beach, Rossbeigh Beach, and Inch Beach.

Cultural Immersion

The Ring of Kerry is a great destination for cultural immersion, with plenty of opportunities to explore Irish culture and traditions. Visitors can attend a traditional music session at a local pub, learn Irish dancing, or visit a local museum. They can also explore the many art galleries and studios along the Ring of Kerry, or attend a local festival or cultural event.

Art and Music Scene

The Ring of Kerry is home to a thriving art and music scene, with many galleries, studios, and music venues to explore. Visitors can attend a concert at the INEC Killarney, or explore the galleries and studios in the town of Kenmare. They can also attend the Sneem International Folklore and Storytelling Festival, which takes place every year in the town of Sneem.

Walking Tours

The Ring of Kerry is a great destination for walking tours, with many guided tours available. Visitors can explore the town of Killarney on foot, or hike the Kerry Way with a local guide. They can also take a guided walking tour of the Skellig Islands, or explore the many historical sites and landmarks along the Ring of Kerry.

Architectural Marvels

The Ring of Kerry is home to many architectural marvels, including ancient monasteries, castles, and stately homes. Visitors can explore the Muckross House and Gardens, a stunning Victorian mansion that dates back to the 19th century. They can also visit the Ross Castle, a 15th-century tower house that is located on the shores of Lough Leane. Other notable architectural marvels include the Kenmare Stone Circle and the Derrynane House.

Historical Sites

The Ring of Kerry is full of historical sites and landmarks that are worth exploring. Visitors can explore the ancient monasteries on the Skellig Islands, or visit the Crag Cave, which features ancient fossils and rock formations. They can also visit the Ballycarbery Castle, a ruined castle that dates back to the 16th century. Other notable historical sites include the Cahergal and Leacanabuaile Forts, which are ancient ring forts that date back to the Iron Age.

Biking Routes

The Ring of Kerry is a great destination for biking, with many scenic routes to explore. Visitors can bike the Ring of Kerry, a 180-kilometer route that takes visitors through some of Ireland’s most stunning landscapes. They can also explore the Beara Peninsula, a scenic route that takes visitors along the coast and through the mountains. Other notable biking routes include the Slea Head Drive and the Dingle Peninsula.

Wellness Retreats

The Ring of Kerry is a great destination for wellness retreats, with many retreat centers and spas to choose from. Visitors can attend a yoga retreat, learn meditation, or simply relax and unwind in a peaceful setting. One popular wellness retreat is the Parknasilla Resort and Spa, which features a wide range of wellness treatments and services.

Adventure Sports

The Ring of Kerry is also a great destination for adventure sports, with many thrilling activities to choose from. Visitors can try rock climbing, abseiling, or canyoning, or explore the many caves and grottos along the coast. They can also try