The south west of Ireland is home to some of the most awe inspiring natural sights you are ever likely to see. The mountainous terrain and outstanding coastal views out over the Wild Atlantic Way combine to offer so many sumptuous vantage points. With so much exquisite ground to cover, travelling the wild loop from Cork through the Ring of Kerry and back again is one of the best carcation trips you can take.
Ring of Kerry Drive – Cork, Killarney, Killorglin, Glenbeigh, Cahirsiveen, Waterville, Caherdaniel, Sneem, Kenmare, Cork
Breakdown of the Ring of Kerry
Cork – Killarney – Killorglin
Head west from Cork city following the signs for Macroom & Killarney (N22) (this is well signposted and easy to follow. When you come to the outskirts of Killarney, at the first roundabout you follow the signs for Killorglin (N72) which are clearly indicated.
You are now on to the Ring of Kerry proper. The route (N70) follows the perimeter of the Iveragh Peninsula (The name of the Peninsula on which the Ring is based), so if you keep the sea on your right until you get to Kenmare you can’t get lost!
Killorglin – Glenbeigh, Cahirsiveen, Waterville, Caherdaniel, Sneem, Kenmare
The route is so littered with stunning scenery, picturesque villages, spectacular beaches, history & culture it will be easy for you to appreciate why this drive is popular. Just keep following the clearly indicated signs.
- As a word of caution always drive carefully and be particularly aware of your driving position if you are not to used to driving on the left hand side as the road. At times the road can be quite narrow without lay-bys.
Kenmare – Cork
As you enter Kenmare you discover yet another pretty town which is definitely worth a stop for some retail therapy and some food. (Kenmare is spoilt for great food choice). From here you can head either straight back to Cork which is 95Kms or go back via Killarney which is 120Kms.
The route from Kenmare to Killarney is through the mountains via Molls Gap and offers truly spectacular views back over Kenmare and on to the Lakes of Killarney. If you have the time, it’s worth it for the views. Note: In parts this is a particularly narrow, but definitely worth it.
Total Distance 324KM
Driving Time 5 hours
Points of Interest Along the Way
Stunning Beaches – Glenbeigh
Valencia Island – Most westerly point in Europe.
Skellig Michael – World Heritage Site
Pretty Villages & Towns.
Derrynane House & National Park – Home of Daniel O Connell one of our greatest statesmen., Staigue Fort – 2000 year old stone fort
Seafari Cruises – Excursion in Kenmare
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