The Ring of Kerry

The more southerly of Kerry’s two great peninsulas, Iveragh is a natural wonderland of forest, blanket bog, river, lake, sandy beach and hill, including Ireland’s highest peak, Corrán Tuathail. Lapped by the warm Gulf Stream, it enjoys exceptionally mild winters and is home to a sub-tropical vegetation.

The peninsula is synonymous with the Ring of Kerry – the 176km (110 ml) tour that takes in Killorglin, Glenbeigh, Cahersiveen, Waterville, Sneem, Kenmare and Killarney.

Killorglin, the home of the legendary Puck Fair, straddles the Laune. Glenbeigh village is popular for the glorious beach at nearby Rossbeigh and the superb golf links at Dooks. Cahersiveen, which boasts a fine marina and seashore and mountain walking trails, was the birthplace of the great political agitator Daniel O’Connell (1775-1847). Just south of Cahersiveen it’s possible to take a ferry to the beautiful island of Valentia and drive on to the picturesque village of Portmagee, departure point for the famous Skellig Rock. A hidden gem of this area is the Skelligs Ring, which offers stunning views and introduces you to beautiful and tranquil Ballinskelligs and its beach. The village of Sneem has won national awards for its beauty. Another award winning town, Kenmare is an ideal base for exploring the Ring of Kerry and the Ring of Beara.