If you’re planning a trip to Ireland, Kerry should be at the top of your list. Known for its jaw-dropping landscapes, iconic landmarks, and vibrant cultural experiences, County Kerry truly encapsulates the magic of Ireland. From dramatic coastal drives to charming villages, Kerry offers an adventure for every type of tourist.
So, let’s dive into the must-see attractions and activities that make Kerry a must-visit destination.
Killarney National Park: A Natural Wonderland
One of the most iconic spots in Kerry, Killarney National Park is a true haven for nature lovers. Spanning over 26,000 acres, this park is home to the stunning Lakes of Killarney, lush woodlands, and rolling hills. Explore by foot, bike, or jaunting car (a traditional Irish horse-drawn carriage) as you soak in the breathtaking scenery.
Don’t miss Muckross House & Gardens, an elegant 19th-century mansion where you can step back in time and admire the beautifully preserved interiors.
For those up for a hike, Torc Waterfall offers a scenic walk through the woods, and if you’re feeling adventurous, the climb up Torc Mountain rewards you with panoramic views of the park.
No visit to Killarney is complete without taking a leisurely boat tour of the lakes, offering unique perspectives of this pristine landscape.
The Ring of Kerry: A Scenic Coastal Drive
Arguably one of the most famous drives in Ireland, the Ring of Kerry is a 179-kilometer loop that showcases the rugged coastline and spectacular views of Kerry’s landscapes. The journey takes you through charming towns such as Kenmare and Cahersiveen, with plenty of opportunities to stop and admire the stunning vistas along the way.
Be sure to visit Ladies View, a scenic overlook named after Queen Victoria’s ladies-in-waiting, who were awestruck by its beauty. Another highlight is the Gap of Dunloe, a narrow mountain pass offering dramatic views of Kerry’s natural scenery—ideal for those who enjoy walking, cycling, or horse riding.
If you’re into history, stop by Staigue Fort, one of the largest and best-preserved ring forts in Ireland, dating back to around 300 AD.
Dingle Peninsula: A Blend of Nature and Culture
The Dingle Peninsula offers a mix of wild beauty and rich Irish culture. Start your journey in Dingle Town, a vibrant hub of traditional music, cosy pubs, and artisan shops.
Don’t miss Dick Mack’s Pub, a local institution where you can sip on a pint while surrounded by antiques and relics from days gone by.
From Dingle Town, venture out along Slea Head Drive, a route that hugs the coastline and offers awe-inspiring views of the Atlantic Ocean. You’ll pass by dramatic cliffs, ancient ruins, and beaches like Coumeenoole Beach, a picturesque spot often featured in films. If you’re up for an adventure, take a boat trip to the Blasket Islands, once home to a Gaelic-speaking community and now an uninhabited nature reserve that’s perfect for hiking and exploring.
The peninsula is also known for its rich archaeological history, with sites such as Gallarus Oratory, a stone chapel believed to date back over 1,000 years, showcasing Ireland’s early Christian roots.
Sheen Falls Hotel
Welcome to Sheen Falls Lodge, where luxury meets nature.
The five-star Relais & Châteaux hotel is nestled on the beautiful Kenmare Bay in Ireland, providing the perfect gateway to the Ring of Kerry, the Beara Peninsula, and the southwestern edge of the Wild Atlantic Way.
Experience our harmonious environment, where the landscape breathes life into every moment. Whether you’re curling up with a good book by the blazing log fires, exploring the 300-acre estate, playing a round of golf at our picturesque Ring of Kerry Golf Club, or indulging in exceptional dining at The Falls Restaurant, The Stables Brasserie, or Nua Vista.
Skellig Michael: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Fans of history and film alike will be captivated by Skellig Michael, a remote island off the Kerry coast. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this island was once a monastic settlement dating back to the 6th century. More recently, it gained fame as a filming location for Star Wars: The Last Jedi.
Reaching Skellig Michael involves a boat trip, followed by a steep climb up 618 steps to the ancient monastic ruins at the summit. Along the way, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the Atlantic and, if you’re lucky, sightings of the island’s puffin colonies. Due to its popularity, be sure to book your boat trip well in advance.
Skelligsix 18 Distillery
Here on the Skellig Coast of Co. Kerry, at the South West corner of Ireland, we are known for our tenacity, muinÃn and grit. The kind of grit that reaches for opportunity.
Our Distillery & Visitor Experience is located right here on the Coastline, in Cahersiveen where the mountains meet the sea. The same wild landscape that motivated sixth-century monks to build their monastery 11km out in the Atlantic Ocean. From a small landing cove on granite rock, they crafted six hundred and eighteen steps to reach their monastery on the top of Skellig Michael.
This feat, their journey, inspires Skellig Six18 today.
Louis Mulcahy Pottery
For nearly fifty years Louis has spent nearly every waking moment researching materials and producing new designs.
Unlike many modern potters, he does not buy readymade glazes but makes his glazes from natural silica, fluxes and colouring minerals. His clay bodies are blended from stoneware and porcelain clays of the highest quality.
Louis Mulcahy pots are by far the strongest and most durable of all handmade Pottery. They are widely recognised for their unusually long life and resistance to abuse. His tableware is guaranteed oven, microwave and dishwasher-proof.
Louis continues to make all his pots at his workshop in Dingle. His work is distinctively Irish and reflects the magnificent scale and wonderful colours in the landscape of his chosen home.
Seasonal Highlights and Local Festivals
Kerry offers something special no matter what time of year you visit. During the summer months, the county comes alive with festivals such as Puck Fair in Killorglin, one of Ireland’s oldest festivals, featuring parades, music, and the crowning of a goat as “King Puck.”
Autumn brings the Killarney Racing Festival, an exciting event for horse racing enthusiasts, while winter showcases the raw beauty of Kerry’s landscapes without the crowds, perfect for those looking for a peaceful retreat.
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