12 Places in the Ring of Kerry That Will Leave You Speechless

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Standing at the edge of the Cliffs of Kerry, watching waves crash against rocks hundreds of feet below while wild Atlantic winds whipped around me, I couldn’t help but grin. The Ring of Kerry isn’t just another pretty drive—it’s Ireland turned up to eleven, where every turn reveals another view that seems too wild to be real.

From watching seals play in the crystal clear waters at Kells Bay Beach to driving through the Gap of Dunloe with those ancient mountains rising up on both sides, these beautiful places in Kerry made me fall hard for Ireland’s wild southwest coast. Here are 12 stops along this legendary route that showed me why the Ring of Kerry deserves every bit of hype it gets, and then some.

Top Places to Visit in the Ring of Kerry

Looking to explore the Ring of Kerry’s most beautiful places? From the stunning vistas of Ladies View to the serene beaches of Rossbeigh, the Ring of Kerry is packed with stunning scenery. Stroll through the charming town of Killarney, marvel at the natural beauty of Killarney National Park, or explore the historic charm of Muckross House. Discover the tranquil allure of Valentia Island, the vibrant village of Sneem, or the breathtaking views from Skellig Michael. Whether you’re into coastal drives, history, or natural beauty, here are 12 of the Ring of Kerry’s most breathtaking spots!

1. Derrynane Beach

• 📍 Location: South Kerry, about 40 minutes southwest of Kenmare on the Ring of Kerry route
• 🏆 Best For: Beach lovers 🏖️, history enthusiasts 🏛️, water sports enthusiasts 🏄‍♀️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Swimming in the sheltered bay, exploring Derrynane House, walking the coastal trails
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Summer months (June-August) for swimming, May/September for fewer crowds 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Derrynane Bay House – A charming family-run B&B located on the Wild Atlantic Way, providing personalized service and close proximity to the beach

Derrynane Beach feels like a Caribbean escape hidden on Ireland’s wild coast. Its sheltered bay cradles turquoise waters and white sands that consistently rank among Ireland’s most beautiful beaches. The Blue Flag status ensures pristine swimming conditions even for families with young children.

The beach forms part of Derrynane National Historic Park, home to Derrynane House where Daniel O’Connell, Ireland’s famed “Liberator,” once lived. I’ve never walked through more magical fairy woodland trails than those connecting the beach to this historic residence. At low tide, venture across to Abbey Island with its 6th-century ruins and ancient graveyard. For water enthusiasts, Derrynane Sea Sports offers kayaking and windsurfing to experience this coastal gem from a different perspective.

2. Kenmare

• 📍 Location: South Kerry, nestled between the Ring of Kerry and Beara Peninsula routes
• 🏆 Best For: Foodies 🍽️, shoppers 🛍️, history buffs 🏛️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Browsing boutique shops, dining in award-winning restaurants, visiting the ancient stone circle
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Year-round, though May-September offers the best weather 🌈
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Park Hotel Kenmare – Victorian landmark hotel with spa overlooking Kenmare Bay

Kenmare packs more charm into its colorful streets than towns twice its size. This heritage gem sits where the Roughty River meets Kenmare Bay, creating a perfect base for Ring of Kerry explorers. Locals call it the “Jewel of the Ring” for good reason.

The town center bursts with craft shops, art galleries, and boutiques selling handwoven tweeds and artisanal foods. Foodie travelers must visit The Lime Tree or Mulcahy’s where local ingredients transform into culinary masterpieces. I’ve spent hours wandering these vibrant streets, always discovering something new.

The Kenmare Stone Circle dates back to the Bronze Age and features a mysterious “boulder-burial” in its center. The Wednesday market fills the town square with local producers showcasing Kerry’s finest creations. Afternoons here are best spent on a boat trip spotting seals and eagles in the bay.

3. Kerry Cliffs

• 📍 Location: Southwestern Kerry, about 4 km from Portmagee village on the Skellig Ring
• 🏆 Best For: Photographers 📸, nature lovers 🦅, seekers of dramatic scenery 🌊
• 📸 Top Experiences: Marveling at 300+ foot cliff drops, viewing Skellig Michael, spotting seabirds
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April-September for clearest visibility, early morning or sunset for best lighting 🌅
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The Moorings Hotel & Seafood Restaurant – Perfect base for exploring the cliffs and Skellig Islands

Kerry Cliffs has that edge-of-the-world thrill that adventure-seeking travelers crave. These towering 300+ foot drops provide drama without the crowds of the more famous Cliffs of Moher. The well-maintained viewing platforms offer unobstructed panoramas of Puffin Island and Skellig Michael, the UNESCO site made famous in Star Wars.

Watching puffins, gannets, and kittiwakes ride the updrafts here remains one of my most magical Irish memories. The afternoon light bathes the rugged rock faces in golden hues that photographers will find irresistible. Visit in the late afternoon when the sun highlights the textures of these ancient formations against the deep blue Atlantic.

The Moorings in nearby Portmagee serve up the freshest seafood after your cliff adventure. The perfect finish to a day exploring Ireland’s most spectacular coastline.

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4. Killarney National Park

• 📍 Location: County Kerry, immediately south and west of Killarney town
• 🏆 Best For: Nature enthusiasts 🌳, hikers 🥾, history lovers 🏰
• 📸 Top Experiences: Touring Muckross House, taking a jaunting car ride, hiking Torc Mountain
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Spring for wildflowers, autumn for stunning fall colors and fewer tourists 🍂
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The Lake Hotel – Historic accommodation with unbeatable lake and mountain views

Killarney National Park offers Instagram-worthy scenes at every turn in Ireland’s first national park. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve spans 25,000 acres of ancient woodlands, mountains, and lakes where Ireland’s only native red deer roam freely.

The park’s crown jewel, Muckross House, showcases Victorian elegance against the stunning backdrop of Muckross Lake. I’ve never enjoyed a more quintessential Irish experience than touring the park by jaunting car while listening to local drivers share colorful stories and legends.

Adventure seekers should tackle the Torc Mountain trail for relatively easy access to breathtaking panoramic views. The nearby Torc Waterfall roars impressively after rainfall. Even with just one day, you’ll capture unforgettable images of Ireland’s natural splendor while creating memories that last a lifetime.

5. Ladies View

• 📍 Location: Along N71 road in Killarney National Park, about 12 miles from Killarney town
• 🏆 Best For: Photographers 📸, scenery lovers 🏞️, roadtrippers 🚗
• 📸 Top Experiences: Capturing panoramic photos, enjoying tea at the café, spotting native red deer
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Early morning to avoid crowds, or during golden hour for spectacular lighting 🌅
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Carrig House – Elegant country house overlooking the lakes with stunning gardens

Ladies View offers the Instagram moment you’ve been chasing throughout Ireland. This famous panorama earned its name when Queen Victoria’s ladies-in-waiting gasped at the vista during the royal visit of 1861. The elevated viewpoint reveals Killarney’s Upper Lake embraced by the majestic MacGillycuddy’s Reeks mountains.

The viewpoint features two levels, each offering different photographic compositions. On clear days, I’ve watched the interplay of light create a mesmerizing tapestry of blues and greens across the landscape. The morning mist rising off the lakes creates atmospheric shots photographers dream about.

The charming Ladies View Café provides the perfect spot to linger over Irish tea while soaking in the scenery. Watch for native red deer appearing at forest edges during quieter morning hours. This quick stop has the quintessential Kerry view that’ll dominate your travel album.

6. Lough Leane

• 📍 Location: Largest of Killarney’s three lakes, adjacent to Killarney town in County Kerry
• 🏆 Best For: Boating enthusiasts ⛵, wildlife watchers 🦅, history buffs 🏛️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Taking a boat trip to Innisfallen Island, spotting white-tailed eagles, kayaking calm waters
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May through September for boating activities, early morning for wildlife viewing 🐦
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Cahernane House Hotel – Historic country house set on private grounds near the lakeshore

Lough Leane serves up the perfect blend of adventure and history that makes Ireland unforgettable. The name translates to “Lake of Learning,” reflecting its past as a center of early Christian scholarship. The lake forms the glittering centerpiece of Killarney National Park, with 19 islands scattered across its surface.

Innisfallen Island houses the ruins of an abbey where monks produced the renowned Annals of Innisfallen. Regular boat trips make the crossing to this medieval time capsule. I’ve spent hours watching white-tailed eagles soaring above the lake, recently reintroduced after two centuries of absence.

The calm waters invite kayaking adventures with unique perspectives of Ross Castle impossible from shore. Cahernane House Hotel provides luxurious lakeside accommodation after a day of water exploration. Whether by traditional boat or kayak, experiencing Lough Leane from the water reveals Killarney’s true magic.

7. Moll’s Gap

• 📍 Location: County Kerry, Ireland, on the Ring of Kerry route between Kenmare and Killarney
• 🏆 Best For: Scenic drives 🚗, photographers 📸, nature lovers 🌲
• 📸 Top Experiences: Taking in panoramic views of MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, visiting Avoca Handweavers, driving the winding mountain pass
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May through September for clearest weather, early morning for fewer crowds 🌄
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Kenmare Bay Hotel & Resort – Charming accommodations with valley views and proximity to the Ring of Kerry scenic route

This mountain pass will make your Instagram followers green with envy. Moll’s Gap offers sweeping vistas of Ireland‘s highest peaks and photogenic winding roads that I’ve found impossible to capture in just one shot. The distinctive Old Red Sandstone formations create a unique landscape unlike anywhere else on the Ring of Kerry. 

Stop at Avoca Handweavers for authentic Irish crafts and coffee with a view. The hairpin turns delight driving enthusiasts, while the panoramic viewpoints reward everyone. Visit early when morning mist clings to the valleys below, creating a magical atmosphere perfect for memorable vacation photos.

8. Muckross House

• 📍 Location: Killarney National Park, County Kerry, Ireland, about 6km from Killarney town
• 🏆 Best For: History enthusiasts 🏛️, architecture lovers 🏰, garden admirers 🌹
• 📸 Top Experiences: Touring the Victorian mansion, exploring the traditional farms, strolling through the gardens and arboretum
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April through October for blooming gardens, December for festive Christmas experiences 🌷
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The Lake Hotel – Elegant accommodation with views of Killarney’s lakes and mountains

Step back in time at this Victorian mansion, where even Queen Victoria herself was impressed enough to visit. Muckross House showcases elegant 19th-century living within the wild beauty of Killarney National Park. The meticulously maintained formal gardens feature exotic plants from around the world. I could spend hours wandering between the blooming flowerbeds and ancient trees. 

The adjacent traditional farms recreate rural Irish life from the 1930s with live demonstrations of farming techniques. Take a jaunting car ride through the grounds or walk to nearby Muckross Abbey with its atmospheric ruins and ancient yew tree. The estate offers a perfect balance of culture and nature within easy reach of Killarney.

9. Rossbeigh Beach

• 📍 Location: Glenbeigh, County Kerry, Ireland, on the Ring of Kerry route
• 🏆 Best For: Beachcombers 🏖️, water sports enthusiasts 🏄‍♀️, families with children 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦
• 📸 Top Experiences: Walking the 7km blue flag beach, horseback riding along the shore, kitesurfing in the Atlantic waves
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June through August for swimming and sunbathing, year-round for dramatic coastal walks 🌊
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Glenbeigh Hotel – Comfortable accommodation just minutes from the beach

Escape the tourist crowds at this spectacular 7km peninsula where mountains meet wild Atlantic waves. Rossbeigh Beach offers a two-for-one coastal experience. The sheltered eastern side provides calm swimming areas and soft sand perfect for families. The western Atlantic side draws thrill-seekers with excellent kitesurfing and windsurfing conditions. 

My favorite memory here was galloping on horseback along the shore as the sunset painted the Dingle Peninsula mountains gold. The extensive dune system houses diverse plant and bird life just waiting to be discovered. Even in winter, Rossbeigh captivates with moody skies and powerful waves. This Blue Flag beach offers natural beauty without the tourist buses.

10. Sneem

• 📍 Location: Ring of Kerry, County Kerry, Ireland, approximately 40km from Killarney
• 🏆 Best For: Relaxation seekers 🧘‍♀️, village explorers 🏘️, foodies 🍽️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Wandering the colorful village streets, visiting the Sculpture Park, exploring nearby Staigue Fort
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May through September for outdoor dining and festivals, October for autumn colors and fewer tourists 🍂
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Sneem Hotel – Waterfront accommodation with views of Kenmare Bay

This colorful village will slow your pulse rate within minutes of arrival. Sneem enchants visitors with brightly painted buildings and a river splitting it into North and South squares. The village features a remarkable collection of public sculptures, including works by Egyptian artist Viviane Roche. Foodies will discover surprising culinary excellence with restaurants serving fresh local seafood and Kerry lamb. 

I guarantee the pace here will reset your internal clock to Irish time. For active moments, explore the ancient Staigue Stone Fort dating back to the Iron Age or follow walking trails with spectacular views of Kenmare Bay. This twice-crowned winner of Ireland’s Tidy Towns competition rewards travelers who appreciate authentic Irish village life.

11. Torc Waterfall

• 📍 Location: Killarney National Park, County Kerry, Ireland, about 7km from Killarney town
• 🏆 Best For: Nature lovers 🌿, hikers 🥾, photographers 📸
• 📸 Top Experiences: Viewing the 20-meter cascade, hiking Torc Mountain, exploring woodland trails
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April through October for best trail conditions, after rainfall for most dramatic waterfall display 💦
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Victoria House Hotel – Charming accommodation near the national park entrance

Capture a real-life fairytale backdrop at this dramatic cascade where nature frames the perfect shot. Torc Waterfall tumbles 20 meters through ancient woodland just minutes from Killarney. A short 200-meter walk leads to the main viewing area. Climb the stone steps alongside the falls for increasingly spectacular views. From higher vantage points, you can see the waterfall with Muckross Lake and mountains beyond. I’ve never seen such vibrant greens as in the moss-covered rocks here after rainfall. 

For adventurous visitors, continue on the Torc Mountain trail for panoramic views over Killarney’s lakes. The surrounding oak woodlands house red deer, pine martens, and numerous bird species. Visit after rain for maximum dramatic effect.

12. Valentia Island

• 📍 Location: Off the Iveragh Peninsula in County Kerry, Ireland, connected to the mainland by bridge at Portmagee
• 🏆 Best For: History buffs 🏛️, geology enthusiasts 🪨, off-the-beaten-path explorers 🧭
• 📸 Top Experiences: Discovering 385-million-year-old tetrapod footprints, visiting the Skellig Experience Centre, enjoying views from Geokaun Mountain
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April through September for clearest weather, summer evenings for spectacular sunsets 🌅
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Royal Valentia Hotel – Historic accommodation with views of Portmagee Channel

Touch 385-million-year-old footprints where life first crawled from sea to land on this island of evolutionary wonders. Valentia Island connects to the mainland via a bridge at Portmagee yet feels worlds away. This small island played a massive role in global communications as the eastern terminus of the first transatlantic telegraph cable in 1866. 

I stood speechless at the western edge, where ancient tetrapod footprints provide a direct connection to our evolutionary past. For breathtaking views, visit Geokaun Mountain, the island’s highest point at 270 meters. From its summit, see the dramatic Skellig Islands rising from the Atlantic. The Skellig Experience Centre explains the remarkable 6th-century monastery where monks lived in stone beehive huts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Visiting the Beautiful Places in the Ring of Kerry

Want to learn more about the Ring of Kerry’s most beautiful locations? Here are some of the typical questions I often get about the Ring of Kerry’s top destinations.

Where is the most beautiful part of the Ring of Kerry?

The Ring of Kerry is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and iconic landmarks. While beauty is subjective, many travelers and locals alike rave about places like Ladies View, Muckross House, and Valentia Island. Each spot on the Ring offers its own unique charm, making the entire journey a continuous spectacle of nature’s grandeur.

What is the best way to do the Ring of Kerry?

The best way to experience the Ring of Kerry is by car or coach, allowing you the flexibility to stop at various points of interest. Starting from Killarney and traveling in a counter-clockwise direction is a popular route. This ensures you’re traveling with the flow of tour buses, making for a smoother journey. Don’t forget to take your time, making stops at the most beautiful places to visit in the Ring of Kerry and soaking in the scenery.

What is so special about the Ring of Kerry?

The Ring of Kerry, a 179-kilometer-long circular route in southwest Ireland, is one of the country’s most famous and scenic drives. Here’s what makes it special:

1. Breathtaking Landscapes: The route offers a diverse array of natural beauty. This includes everything from rugged coastlines and golden beaches to rolling green hills and stark mountain ranges.
2. Historical Sites: The Ring of Kerry is dotted with ancient ruins, stone forts, and old monasteries, providing glimpses into Ireland’s rich history. Examples include Staigue Fort and Ballycarbery Castle.
3. Cultural Experience: The route takes you through quaint Irish villages and towns. This is where you can experience local culture, music, and traditions.
4. Killarney National Park: One of Ireland’s most famous national parks. It’s home to the beautiful Lakes of Killarney, Muckross House, Ross Castle, and diverse flora and fauna.
5. Valentia Island: Accessible from the Ring of Kerry, this island offers stunning views, the Skellig Experience Centre (which provides insights into the nearby Skellig Islands), and ancient tetrapod footprints.
6. Moll’s Gap: A panoramic viewpoint offering vistas of the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks mountain range.
7. Derrynane House: The ancestral home of Daniel O’Connell. He was a significant figure in Irish history, set within a beautiful national historic park.

How long does it take to drive the Ring of Kerry?

The drive itself, without stops, takes about 3.5 to 4 hours. However, with so many stunning locations in the Ring of Kerry, it’s recommended to allocate a full day or even two to truly appreciate all the sights and experiences.

Are there guided tours available for the Ring of Kerry?

Absolutely! There are numerous guided tours that offer insights into the Ring of Kerry’s beautiful places. These tours often include historical anecdotes, local legends, and stops at key attractions.

Where is the best place to start the Ring of Kerry?

The Ring of Kerry is a scenic drive around the Iveragh Peninsula in southwest Ireland. The traditional starting point for the Ring of Kerry is the town of Killarney, which is also one of the most accessible and well-equipped towns in terms of accommodations, dining, and other amenities.

Killarney offers several attractions of its own, including:

• Killarney National Park: Home to the famous Lakes of Killarney, Muckross House, and Ross Castle.
• Torc Waterfall: A beautiful waterfall located just a short drive or hike from the main road.
• Muckross Abbey: A historic site within the national park.

Starting in Killarney allows you to begin and end your journey in a location with a wide range of accommodations and dining options. Additionally, Killarney’s position makes it easy to travel in a counter-clockwise direction on the Ring of Kerry. This is the recommended direction to minimize traffic issues, as many tour buses take this route.

What are some must-visit towns along the Ring of Kerry?

Towns like Kenmare, Sneem, and Killarney are not only picturesque but also offer a range of amenities, from dining and shopping to cultural events. They’re perfect spots to rest, refuel, and immerse yourself in local Irish charm.

When is the best time to visit the Ring of Kerry?

The Ring of Kerry scenery is stunning year-round. However, the months between May and September offer the best weather, with longer daylight hours to explore. It’s also the peak tourist season, so expect more crowds.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Beautiful Places in the Ring of Kerry

The Ring of Kerry is more than just a scenic drive. It’s a journey through time, history, and unparalleled natural beauty. From the rugged cliffs and serene beaches to the quaint villages and historical landmarks, every turn offers a new story, a new vista, and a fresh perspective. It’s a place where the land whispers tales of ancient legends, where the sea sings songs of adventures past, and where every sunset paints a masterpiece in the sky.

For travelers seeking a blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion, the Ring of Kerry stands out as a destination that promises memories to last a lifetime. It’s not just about the places you visit, but the experiences you gather, the people you meet, and the moments of wonder you encounter along the way.

So, pack your bags, set your spirit free, and embark on a journey through one of the most beautiful places in the Ring of Kerry. Let the magic of the landscape, the warmth of the locals, and the rhythm of the Irish heartbeats guide you through an unforgettable adventure.