A private day tour from Cork that takes you around the 179 km Ring of Kerry—one of Ireland’s most dramatic coastal drives. Expect historic castles, short walks in Killarney National Park, and narrow, sheep-lined lanes with sweeping Atlantic views.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step into an Irish morning that smells of wet stone and cut grass, the Atlantic low and steady beyond the hills. The tour begins in Cork, but the Ring of Kerry claims you as you curve onto single-lane roads flanked by dry stone walls and sheep that regard cars with the patience of old neighbors. For the next seven to eight hours a driver guides you through a landscape carved by glaciers and tides—fjords that have softened into bays, mountains that still wear scars of ice—and every stop feels deliberate: a ruined castle, a peat-dark lake, a gap that forces silence.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
7–8 hours
Fitness Level
Minimal fitness required for the drive; basic mobility for short 1–2 km walks recommended
Wildlife
History
The route passes sites dating to medieval clan territories; notable is the O’Donoghue family castle from the 16th century and small ringforts that mark early settlement patterns.
Conservation
Killarney National Park and surrounding peatlands are under conservation management; visitors are encouraged to stick to paths to avoid bog damage and respect wildlife habitats.
Reserve your spot on the Ring of Kerry today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Pack a waterproof layer
Weather on the peninsula changes fast; a lightweight waterproof jacket keeps you comfortable during coastal stops.
Wear sturdy shoes
Short walks and shoreline paths can be muddy or uneven—trail runners or hiking shoes are recommended.
Bring cash for small purchases
Many pubs and craft stalls accept cards but some remote vendors prefer cash for quick purchases.
Plan for limited cell service
Download maps and any tickets ahead of time—reception can be spotty on the western side of the loop.
Waterproof jacket
Protects against Atlantic-driven showers and wind on exposed viewpoints.
fall
Sturdy walking shoes
Needed for uneven shorelines, grassland paths and short hikes in the national park.
Daypack with water and snacks
Keeps you hydrated and fueled between stops where services may be limited.
summer
Camera or smartphone with extra battery
Capture coastal panoramas, castle ruins, and wildlife—battery drains quickly in cold or wet weather.