Ring of Kerry

The Ring of Kerry is a loop around the Iveragh Peninsula in County Kerry, in southwest Ireland. Starting from Killarney, it passes lakes, mountains and the wild Atlantic coastline through colorful villages like Kenmare, Sneem and Waterville.

The detours are what make it special for riders: the Skellig Ring around the tip of the peninsula and the mountain road over the Ballaghbeama Gap are quieter and much more fun than the main loop.

Highlights

• Ladies View and Moll's Gap in Killarney National Park
• Kenmare and Sneem
• Derrynane Beach and the coast at Waterville
• The Skellig Ring and Valentia Island
• The Ballaghbeama Gap and the Gap of Dunloe area for mountain roads

Best time to ride

May to September for the best weather and longest days; June is ideal before the peak of summer tourism.

The road

The main N70 is paved but narrow and busy with tour coaches; side roads are single-track with grass in the middle and stone walls.

Riding tips

• Tour coaches travel counterclockwise — riding the same direction avoids meeting them head-on on narrow bends.
• Ireland drives on the left.
• Rain can arrive quickly; waterproof gear is essential at any time of year.