County Kerry, on Ireland’s southwest coast, offers a rich blend of dramatic landscapes, historic sites, and cultural treasures for travellers seeking adventure and serenity. With its rugged mountains, sandy beaches, and welcoming towns, this county provides a wealth of experiences. From the scenic Ring of Kerry to ancient stone forts and tranquil islands, Kerry invites visitors to discover its diverse attractions at their own pace.
The Ring of Kerry, a 179km circular route, winds through coastal cliffs, rolling hills, and quaint villages like Kenmare and Killorglin. Visitors can drive or cycle the route, stopping at viewpoints like Ladies View for sweeping vistas of lakes and mountains. Guided bus tours offer local insights, while walkers can explore sections like the Kerry Way, blending natural beauty with a relaxed journey.
Killarney National Park, spanning 10,236 hectares, is a haven of lakes, woodlands, and peaks. Visitors can explore the Muckross Estate, with its 19th-century mansion and traditional farms, or stroll to Torc Waterfall, a 20-metre cascade. Boat trips on the Lakes of Killarney and bike rentals provide leisurely ways to enjoy the park’s serene landscapes and spot red deer.
Dingle Peninsula, a rugged coastal gem, offers scenic drives along the Slea Head Route, with views of the Blasket Islands. Visitors can explore Dingle town’s colourful pubs and seafood restaurants, visit the Gallarus Oratory, a 1,200-year-old stone church, or take a boat to spot Fungie, the famous dolphin. The peninsula’s beaches and trails make it ideal for walkers and nature lovers.
Skellig Michael, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a rocky island 12km off the coast, reachable by boat from Portmagee. Visitors can climb 600 stone steps to a 6th-century monastic settlement, exploring beehive huts and enjoying Atlantic views. The island’s wild beauty and history appeal to adventurers, with trips requiring advance booking due to limited access.
Ballybunion, a seaside town, boasts sandy beaches and dramatic cliffs. Visitors can walk the cliff paths for ocean views, play golf on the renowned Ballybunion Golf Course, or surf in the Atlantic waves. The town’s seaweed baths offer a unique relaxation experience, while local pubs provide a warm spot to enjoy traditional music and a pint.
Derrynane House, the ancestral home of Daniel O’Connell, sits by a tranquil beach in Derrynane National Historic Park. Visitors can tour the 19th-century house, filled with O’Connell memorabilia, and wander the estate’s gardens and coastal trails. The nearby Derrynane Beach is perfect for swimming or kayaking, blending history with natural beauty.
Staigue Fort, near Sneem, is a well-preserved Iron Age stone fort with 4-metre-high walls. Visitors can explore the circular structure, marvel at its ancient engineering, and enjoy views of the surrounding hills and Kenmare Bay. The fort’s remote setting and nearby walking trails offer a peaceful escape for history enthusiasts.
Valentia Island, connected by bridge to the mainland, offers a mix of history and scenery. Visitors can climb to the Slate Quarry for panoramic views, explore the Valentia Heritage Museum with its transatlantic cable exhibits, or visit the lighthouse at Cromwell Point. The island’s quiet roads and beaches make it ideal for cycling and leisurely strolls.
Muckross Abbey, within Killarney National Park, is a 15th-century Franciscan friary with a hauntingly beautiful cloister and yew tree. Visitors can wander the ruins, learning about its monastic past through informative signs, and explore nearby trails leading to Lough Leane. The abbey’s serene atmosphere appeals to those seeking history and tranquillity.
Rossbeigh Beach, near Glenbeigh, is a 7km stretch of golden sand along Dingle Bay. Visitors can walk the dunes, swim in the Atlantic, or try horse riding along the shore. The beach’s scenic backdrop of mountains and its quiet setting make it a perfect spot for families and those seeking a relaxing coastal day.
County Kerry’s mix of rugged landscapes, historic landmarks, and cultural experiences creates a rewarding destination. Whether driving the Ring of Kerry, exploring ancient monasteries, or relaxing on sandy shores, travellers will find plenty to enjoy in this inviting corner of Ireland.
County Kerry:
Ireland’s county Kerry is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, with the Ring of Kerry offering scenic drives past lakes and coastal cliffs. Killarney National Park features the serene Lakes of Killarney and historic Muckross House, while Dingle’s coastal trails and dolphin-watching opportunities add natural allure. Accessible by seasonal ferry, the Skellig Islands’ ancient monastic ruins make Kerry a compelling choice for outdoor adventure and history. Kerry is Ireland’s fifth largest county by size (4,701 square km) and 15th largest by population (156,458). Population peaked at 293,880 in 1841 and reached its lowest point, 112,785 in 1966. In terms of hospitality, Kerry is Ireland’s fourth most visited tourist county with around 877,000 international visitors per year.
Introduction – Adventure – Anthem – Archaeology – Attractions – Awards – Birdwatching – Camping – Castles – Churches – Contact list – Cycling – Dining – Equestrian – Festivals – Fishing – Folklore – Gardens – Golf – Graveyards – Happening – Haunted – Highest – Hiking – History – Holy Wells – Hotels – Hotels8 – Instagrammable – Itineraries – Largest town – Luxury – MICE – Movies – Musicians – Name – New – Novelists – Off the beaten track – Poets – Pubs – Quotes – Random Facts – Restaurant Awards – Sacred Places – Saints – Spas – Sports – Sunsets– Sustainable – Things to do – Towns – Video – Villages – Walking – Wanderlist – Weddings – Wild swimming – Writers – 1837 – 1846 – 1852 – 1909 – 1955 – 1980 –
Things to do
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