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The Ring of Kerry is one of those quintessential stops on any Ireland itinerary. Located in County Kerry (shocking, I know), this scenic loop winds past castles, stone forts, jaw-dropping viewpoints, sandy beaches, and most importantly, the best bowl of beef stew you’ll ever eat.
The beef stew isn’t technically part of the Ring of Kerry, but trust me, it’s worth the detour.
Like so many places in Ireland, the Ring of Kerry is a “choose your own adventure.” You can stop at every landmark or just a handful. Drive it yourself at your own pace or hop on a guided tour. You can join the tour buses by driving counterclockwise, or go clockwise and experience the thrill of squeezing past them on narrow Irish roads. No matter what you choose, set aside an entire day for the journey, because the Ring is about the views, the atmosphere, and the unexpected discoveries along the way.
If you want a super detailed map with every possible stop, check out my favorite resource: The Irish Road Trip. But if you want the best highlights and practical tips all in one place, this guide will take you through step by step.
Tour Options
Driving is the most flexible way to experience the Ring of Kerry, but not everyone wants to brave Ireland’s winding country roads. Luckily, there are plenty of guided tours available:
- Rail Tours: that combine scenic train rides with coach transfers.
- Bus Tours: that take the stress out of driving and navigation.
Ready to Explore? Book Here ↓
Step by Step Ring of Kerry Guide
This guide has you starting in Killarney. My recommendation is to download offline maps with Google Maps and enter your points of interest step by step and follow those directions. Alternatively, you can open this map on your phone and navigate to each stop you would like to check out. Follow along below for my favorite stops along the Ring!
Step 1. Ladies Viewpoint and Moll’s Gap ~1 hour
Start your day with two of the most famous viewpoints in County Kerry. Ladies View is named after Queen Victoria’s ladies-in-waiting, who swooned over the sweeping vistas during the royal visit in 1861. From here, you can see the Lakes of Killarney framed by rolling green hills.
Continue on to Moll’s Gap, a mountain pass where the road snakes between dramatic peaks. The views are especially striking on a clear morning when the light spills over the valley. It’s the perfect place to pull over, breathe in that fresh Irish air, and snap a few photos before moving on. If you want to add into your Ring of Kerry itinerary a stop through the Gap of Dunloe, read my post on how best to visit this magnificent area.
Step 2. Kenmare ~10 minutes
This colorful town is a gem. Known for its traditional shopfronts painted in bright colors, Kenmare feels lively but still cozy. Take a quick stroll through the streets and pop into a café for breakfast. I recommend Rookery Lane Food & Lodging for fresh pastries, coffee, and a warm welcome.
If you have time, wander down to the stone circle at the edge of town, one of the largest in southwest Ireland. It dates back to the Bronze Age and adds a touch of mystique to your morning.
Step 3. Dunkerron Castle ~6 minutes
Hidden behind holiday cottages, the ruins of Dunkerron Castle are worth a quick stop. Built in 1596, this was once the stronghold of the O’Sullivan clan. Today, ivy drapes across the stone walls and it feels like a forgotten corner of history. Even though it’s not as well-known as some of the bigger castles on the Ring, it makes for atmospheric photos and a quiet moment away from the main road.
Step 4. Sneem ~25 minutes
Arriving in Sneem feels like stepping into a postcard. The brightly painted houses pop against the green hills, and the town square is perfect for stretching your legs. Grab a coffee, browse the local shops, or simply admire the views. Sneem is small but memorable, the kind of place that leaves you smiling as you head back on the road.
Step 5. Staigue Stone Fort ~25 minutes
One of the highlights of the Ring, Staigue Stone Fort is a masterpiece of Iron Age engineering. Built around 300 AD, the circular stone structure was likely a defensive stronghold for local kings. The walls are up to 18 feet thick and stand without mortar, a testament to ancient craftsmanship.
Climb inside and you’ll feel the weight of history. The fort sits high on a hill with sweeping views, so it is both practical and dramatic. If you want more, Caherdaniel Fort nearby offers a similar experience.
Step 6. First Beach Stop ~20 minutes
By now, you’ll be ready for some sea air. You have two excellent choices:
- Castle Cove Beach with its small bay and calm waters
- Derrynane Beach, a larger expanse of golden sand backed by dunes
Nearby, you can also visit Derrynane House, the historic home of Daniel O’Connell, one of Ireland’s most famous political leaders. The house is now a museum and the grounds are a peaceful place for a walk.
Step 7. Waterville ~15 minutes
This seaside town has a long beach, a relaxed vibe, and an unexpected Hollywood connection. Charlie Chaplin spent many vacations here, and there’s even a statue of him on the promenade. Waterville is also popular with golfers, but even if you are not into the sport, it’s a scenic spot for a stroll and a quick bite.
Step 8. Ballinskellig ~15 minutes
At this point, you have reached the gateway to the Skellig Ring, a smaller but equally scenic loop that branches off the main Ring of Kerry. Stop at Ballinskellig Castle, a crumbling tower right on the water, and Ballinskellig Abbey, perched dramatically on the edge of the ocean. The Abbey ruins are hauntingly beautiful, with waves crashing just below.
Step 9. Skellig Ring Highlights ~20–30 minutes
If you have time, continue onto the Skellig Ring for extra viewpoints. Coomanaspig Pass offers breathtaking panoramas across the ocean, while the Kerry Cliffs give you towering sea cliffs without the crowds of the Cliffs of Moher. The short walk to the viewing platform is well worth the small entrance fee.
For a sweet stop, head to Skelligs Chocolate Factory, where you can sample handmade chocolates while gazing out to sea.
Step 10. Portmagee ~5 minutes
By now you will be hungry, and Portmagee is the perfect lunch stop. Head straight to Moorings Guesthouse & Seafood, famous (according to me) for its hearty beef stew and seafood dishes. The cozy pub atmosphere is everything you imagine an Irish meal should be with the added bonus of a shrine to Star Wars.
Star Wars fans will love Portmagee. Nearby Skellig Michael was a filming location for The Force Awakens and The Last Jedi. If you are a mega fan, you can even take a boat trip to the island, though tours require advance booking.
Ready to Explore? Book Here ↓
Step 11. Viewpoints Part Two ~7 minutes
After lunch, choose between two more spectacular viewpoints.
- Bray Head for a cliff walk with endless ocean views
- Geokaun Mountain and Cliffs, which has panoramic views of Valentia Island and the Atlantic
If you can only pick one, Geokaun’s cliffs are especially impressive.
We had a beautiful trip to Ireland where nearly everyday was filled with sunshine and blue skies. However, our day exploring the Ring of Kerry was by far the worst weather we had. It is a risk on any trip, but especially in Ireland where the rain is frequent and the conditions fickle. Please enjoy our completely fogged in view points and just imagine what you may see on a clear day!
Wrapping Up the Ring
At this point you’re heading into the final stretch. The scenery remains beautiful but the stops begin to resemble those you’ve already seen, so feel free to prioritize.
Cahersiveen ~20 minutes
Pass through the town or detour to Cahergall Stone Fort, another remarkable example of ancient Irish stonework.
Kells Bay House and Garden ~15 minutes
This botanical garden features waterfalls, exotic plants, and playful rope bridges. It’s a wonderful place to stretch your legs and wander among giant ferns.
Rossbeigh Beach ~20 minutes
Another long sandy beach, perfect for one last walk by the water before finishing the loop.
Killorglin ~30 minutes, optional
Your final town on the loop. Stop to see the quirky King Puck Monument, which celebrates Ireland’s oldest festival where a goat is crowned king. For a local shopping fix, head to Kerry Woollen Mills. End your adventure with pizza and craft beer at Killarney Brewing and Distilling.
The Bottom Line
The Ring of Kerry is one of Ireland’s most iconic drives for a reason. Along the way you’ll encounter castles, stone forts, cliffs, beaches, colorful towns, and views that change with every bend in the road. Even if the weather turns gray and misty, lean into the drama. Fog and rain only make the landscape more atmospheric.
Set aside a full day, pack snacks, and give yourself the gift of slow travel. Whether you join a tour or drive it yourself, the Ring of Kerry will leave you with stories, photos, and memories that stay with you long after you’ve left Ireland.
For more Ireland travel tips, check out my shop for detailed itineraries for Irish destinations. Or continue to explore other Ireland posts below!
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