Places to Stop Along the Ring of Kerry

Ross Castle: Since this iconic landmark is so close to Killarney, it’s commonly the first stop along the Ring of Kerry. Ross Castle is a massive structure with a rich Irish history, making it the perfect spot to take in 15th-century architecture. The grounds are free to explore, and there are numerous boat operators on-site to provide views of the castle from the adjacent lake: Lough Leane. Starting the Ring of Kerry drive early in the morning? Ross Castle also has a coffee stand to provide that much-needed caffeine fix.

Muckross Abbey: Ruins can be found all over Ireland, but Muckross Abbey perfectly combines the rawness of an uninhabited historical property with thoughtful preservation. While most of the structures are roofless, the walls and floor levels remain surprisingly intact. This makes Muckross Abbey a fascinating site to explore, whether you’re wandering the courtyard or climbing the narrow spiral staircases.

Ladies View: Ladies View is one of Ireland’s most iconic panoramic viewpoints, and for good reason. Located just meters off the N71, this landmark offers breathtaking views of the Lakes of Killarney and MacGillycuddy’s Reeks (Ireland’s highest mountain range). In addition to the main viewing area, there is a rooftop café across the road that allows you to dine while taking in the scenery.

Kerry Cliffs: Someone has to be the one to say it: The Cliffs of Moher don’t hold a candle to the Kerry Cliffs. The Kerry Cliffs are much taller, much less crowded, and offer experiences that the more popular tourist destinations just can’t match. The sheer grandness of the Kerry Cliffs cannot be understated, with glistening water crashing against sedimentary rock covered in the lush Irish greenery we all know and love. If views of the Skellig Islands across the ocean aren’t enough for you, there are seasonal boat tours to get you even closer. Skellig Michael was the filming site for multiple Star Wars films and offers numerous tour opportunities. Puffin Island can also be viewed from the boat and, just as the name suggests, offers incredible views of the adorable seabirds.

Cahergal Stone Fort: The Irish are masters at preserving their most intriguing historical sites. Cahergal Stone Fort features massive 7th-century stone walls that, once climbed, offer amazing views of the surrounding area. The entire ring fort is continuous, so feel free to walk around the perimeter for new perspectives. Be mindful of your step, as there are steep drop-offs!

Gap of Dunloe: Tucked away in the mountains, this pass provides numerous points of interest that are often overlooked near the completion of the Ring of Kerry. The Gap of Dunloe offers amazing hiking opportunities, with fresh vantage points of MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, glacial lakes, and picturesque stone bridges. If you are short on time or need a rest, there are plenty of horse-drawn carriages that can turn your round trip into a one-way adventure. Don’t be shocked by the woolly traffic jams! Sheep are everywhere, from the roads to the mountain peaks.

Heather Restaurant and Cafe: This little family-run cafe is the perfect place to fuel up before hiking the Gap of Dunloe. Featuring local ingredients from their own garden and the immediate area, it is a great spot to enjoy a full Irish breakfast, fresh smoked salmon, and crispy colcannon potato cakes.

J.M. Reidy’s: This unique pub occupies a massive, sprawling space in the heart of Killarney. Formerly a hardware store and now reconstructed into a pub, it serves up wood-fired pizzas and creamy stouts. Look for the red-and-white striped awning, and you’ve found your spot!

Jimmy Brien’s Pub: This is the quintessential Irish pub to grab a cold Guinness, where you’ll find more locals than tourists. It’s the perfect place to talk shop and wind down with a game of darts.

Mulcahy’s: Kenmare’s Mulcahy’s offers standout upscale dining after a long day on the Ring of Kerry. While the menu is subject to change, you can always expect carefully crafted seafood dishes and high-quality Irish classics. Whatever you choose for dinner, make sure you order the Baked Alaska for dessert!

QC’s Seafood Restaurant: Also a boutique hotel (and a great choice for your accommodations), QC’s Seafood Restaurant provides the freshest Wild Atlantic seafood you could ask for. Because the owners actually own a commercial fishing fleet, the quality of the “catch of the day” speaks for itself. This is the spot for a high-quality meal on the west end of the Ring of Kerry.