The Ring of Kerry is one of Irelands most scenic drives and is world famous. It travels along the dramatic and largely unspoilt Iveragh Peninsula in County Kerry, in the southwest of Ireland and is a 179 kilometre circular route. The route incorporates rugged and verdant coastal landscapes as well as rural seaside villages and vast glacial valleys, as it travels along the coastline of the Wild Atlantic Way. Travelling along visitors will encounter incredible natural beauty as well as a wealth of traditional heritage and culture. There is literally something awaiting around every bend in the road, and the vistas along the way will take your breath away. It will soon become evident why it is one of the most photographed coasts in Ireland.
Visitors will pass through many villages including, Killarney, Kenmare, Sneem, Caherdaniel, Waterville, Ballinskelligs, Portmagee, Valentia Island, Cahersiveen, Glenbeigh and Kilorglin. The route is narrow and winding. It is best for cars to drive clockwise around the Ring of Kerry to avoid any potential delays with the tour buses as they have to drive anti-clockwise. Generally visitors start and end the route in Killarney town.
There are many popular attractions and points of interest along the way that visitors may want to stop off at. They include National Parks, monastic sites, ring forts, stunning beaches, historic houses and castles and much more. Charlie Chaplin was a regular visitor to this part of the country holidaying in Waterville with his family for more than ten years.
The drive can be completed in a day but, to really enjoy it and do it full justice, visitors should allocate at least two days. This will allow time to stop and take in the wonderful surroundings and the many things to see and do. Also many of the best sites of interest are located off of the route on back roads. There are various pull-in points along the way where it is possible to stop safely, admire the views and take photographs.
The Ring of Kerry scenic drive encompasses everything, from the mountains to the coastline, an abundance of walks and water-sports, plenty of places along the way to eat and drink and enjoy the local and traditional entertainment provided in in the many pubs and music venues. The charming and colourful towns and villages along the way provide plenty to see and do and the opportunity to pick up a souvenir to remember your visit.
No trip to Ireland is complete without taking in the incredible raw beautiful scenery of the Ring of Kerry.
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