Round trip in Kerry and surroundings, discover Ireland with a rental motorhome!
In Kerry you will find the typical Irish landscape you expect from Ireland. Kerry, also called "the kingdom" by the Irish, is known for its spectacular coastline, beautiful mountains, colorful and lively villages, and rich history.
Climb Ireland's highest mountain, watch the sunset from Ireland's westernmost point or follow in the footsteps of your favorite character from Star Wars on the Skellig Islands. With the Ring of Kerry and the Slea Head Drive, Kerry offers two of Ireland's finest driving routes. Walkers can also enjoy the beautiful countryside, for example on Dingle Peninsula or the MacGillacuddy mountain range. The kingdom also has beautiful beaches and for water sports enthusiasts there is everything from surfing to kayaking. Culturally, Kerry also has much to offer. Make a pit stop in Killarney, which has more pubs per person than anywhere else in Ireland. In Dingle, enjoy Irish hospitality, Irish cuisine and characterful local pubs with traditional music sessions. Or combine your visit with one of the many festivals, such as the weeklong carnival in July. In Kerry, you won't get bored easily.
Highlights of Kerry
Killarney National Park
Between Killarney and Kenmare lies the spectacular Killarney National Park. There are several ways to explore this beautiful landscape of mountains, lakes and forests. You can explore the lakes by kayak or boat, and there are wonderful hiking and biking trails. Ross Castle, a 15-century castle on the edge of Lake Lough Leane, is a beautiful sight. Here you can be shown around by horse and carriage. Another highlight is Muckross House, an 18-century stately old mansion on Lake Muckross. A guided tour gives a good impression of the life of the Herbert family and their servants.
Ring of Kerry
This 179-kilometer loop road across the Iveragh Peninsula is one of Ireland's most popular driving routes for good reason. The road takes you past white beaches, medieval ruins, beautiful mountain passes and cute villages. Enjoy stunning views of the island-strewn Atlantic Ocean. The ring road can be driven in a day, but our advice is to take your time. If you stay overnight along the way, you have the chance to admire Kerry's beautiful starry skies at night. Kerry has been an International Dark-Sky Reserve since 2014, due to its low light pollution.
Skellig Michael
This 6th century monastic community is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The community is in a unique location, namely the steep 217-meter-high rock of Skellig Michael, the larger of the two Skellig islands. The monastery buildings are accessed by 618 steep steps carved into the rock face. A highlight are the houses where the monks lived, which are shaped like beehives. Furthermore, you will find beautiful vistas and puffins. The island shined as Luke Skywalker's Jedi refuge in the Star Wars films The Force Awakens and The Last Jedi. Book the boat to the island on time and plan extra time in case the weather is bad.
Dingle
Dingle is a typical Irish village that should not be missed on your tour. In this lively colorful harbor town, you can enjoy fresh fish and shellfish, brought into the harbor in the morning. Foodies can further indulge in other local produce here, such as the delicious ice cream from Dingle's famous Murphy's Ice-Cream and the large selection of cheeses from The Little Cheese Shop. Art lovers can indulge in the interesting boutiques. Dingle's cozy old-fashioned pubs also figure as stores and are the social heart of the village. At John Benny's pub, in a classic setting including traditional tiled floors, enjoy live music and a Guiness beer. By kayak, boat or while swimming, you can meet Dingle's most famous resident; dolphin Fungie.
Slae Head Drive
Slae Head Drive is Kerry's other wonderful driving route. Loved by locals, this 47km loop road around the Dingle Peninsula takes you past ancient prehistoric forts, beehive houses, chapels, white sandy beaches, traditional fishing villages and beautiful seascapes. You may recognize the area around Dunquin from postcards and calendars.
Carrauntoohil
Ireland's highest mountain (1038 meters) is located in Macgillycuddy's mountain range, near Killarney. You have a choice of four different routes leading to the summit. Whichever way you choose, it's a hefty day hike of at least 5 or 6 hours. At the summit, you will be rewarded with views of Coomloughra Lough and even as far as Dingle Bay. Do not climb this mountain in bad weather and prepare for changeable weather.
Valentia and Blasket Islands
The Kerry coast is dotted with remote unique islands worth visiting. On Valentia Island, which is just slightly off the Ring of Kerry, you will find both beautiful unspoiled nature and a great deal of history. The Geokaun Mountains are the perfect place to enjoy a beautiful sunset. Furthermore, you will find the footprints of a large amphibian animal, which walked on the soft sediment 385 million years ago. The footprints are the oldest known fossilized footprints in the world and the first fossil traces of an amphibian animal. Located five kilometers from the Dingle Peninsula, the uninhabited Blasket Islands are the westernmost point in Europe. The five islands offer an amazing combination of history, rugged natural beauty and wildlife such as seals and whales. The remains of a fishing village on the largest island, Great Blasket, tell the story of a remote island life in harmony with the sea. The island was also home to three of Ireland's most beloved writers. Great Blasket Island has a café and it is possible to stay overnight on the island.