Look to the left: Sun-splashed carpets of rolling green meadows dotted with grazing sheep. Look to the right: A horizon of crisscrossing mountain peaks with the Wild Atlantic crashing waves against a rocky shore. Your head is so loose looking every which way on the Ring of Kerry you’ll never need to see a chiropractor again.
This southwest corner of Ireland is so stunningly beautiful, best to leave the driving to someone else, like a local tour guide or tour bus driver. The Ring of Kerry is a scenic narrow lane drive covering a distance of 111-miles (179-kilometers). It’s a full day experience, if you make frequent stops at pullouts and overlooks to gaze at the amazing landscapes, and explore the various pristine ocean beaches, river and lake shorelines, and rain forests. The Ring of Kerry is not to be rushed. There’s something spiritual about it. Your senses absorb the fresh aroma and rushing sounds of wind-blown air, and the sight of racing clouds, sun showers that create the boldest rainbows on the planet, and landscapes colored with more shades of green than a box of Crayola crayons.
Along the way, you’ll drive through quaint postcard towns such as Sneem, where you can get a bite to eat and drink at local pubs and browse the charming specialty shops.
A number of historical sites, including castles, cultural landmarks, and natural wonders, such as Killarney National Park, are on The Ring of Kerry. While wandering in the park, you can hike a number of trails through a lush rainforest, view stunning waterfalls and lakes, and perhaps observe a herd of native red deer grazing in a meadow. A popular spot in the center of the park is Muckross House and Gardens, a sprawling 9th-century Victorian mansion. Guided house tours are available for a fee, but you can explore the well-groomed gardens are on your own. Nearby, discover the ruins of Muckross Abbey and graveyard. The site dates back to the beginning of Christianity in Ireland around the 6th century. You can walk through the ruins for free, as well as the graveyard, which is still used as an active burial ground. A fun way to explore Killarney National Park is to take a traditional Jaunting Car ride. These horse drawn carriages ride over paved trails throughout the park, stopping at various historical sites and landmarks while the drivers spin colorful narratives of Irish history and folk tales.
The Ring of Kerry area is a glorious vacation destination with abundant recreational activities, from hiking and water sports to horseback riding and Ireland’s national obsession- golf. Or, just take a relaxing countryside drive, see amazing historical and cultural sites, and stop by a charming Irish pub for a pint or two. Definitely put this majestic Irish getaway on your travel bucket list!
