More than twice the size of the Dingle Peninsula and backed by a muscular tourism budget that promotes every sight as a “must-see,” the Ring of Kerry (Iveragh Peninsula) can seem overwhelming. Lassoed by a winding coastal road (the Ring), this mountainous, lake-splattered region comes with breathtaking scenery and the highest peak in Ireland.
While a fleet of tourist-laden buses circle it each day, they generally depart Killarney around the same time, head the same direction, and stop at the same handful of attractions. If you avoid those places at rush hour, the Ring feels remarkably unspoiled and dramatically isolated, allowing you to enjoy one of the most rewarding days in Ireland.
The entire Ring of Kerry loop is 135 miles and takes 4.5 hours without stops. Factoring in time for lunch and sightseeing, the Ring is easily an all-day experience.
You want to get an early start (8:30 AM at the latest) and drive clockwise around the Ring to avoid getting stuck behind a chain of tour buses. Make sure to fill your gas tank before leaving.
