5 Most Picturesque Views on the Ring of Kerry

Updated: Jul 18

If you're anything like us, you can't get enough of Instagram-worthy views on your travels. Ireland has no lack in this department due to its lush landscape of mountains, rivers, and cliffs overlooking the ocean. Once you see the greenery of the island, you'll know why Ireland is referred to as the Emerald Isle. One of our favorite ways to see some of these views is the iconic Ring of Kerry. Some may say it's overdone - but usually there's a reason something is popular - and whether you self-drive or tour with a private driver -you'll see why this is a road you want to spend a day on. If you're searching for a perfect Ireland view - we have somewhere for you on this list.

Killarney National Park

You cannot miss this part of the drive - it's a main attraction of the Ring of Kerry. Located at the southeastern edge of Ireland, it is home to a vast landscape that ranges from mountain peaks to ocean edges riddled with lakes, rivers, and woodlands. This leaves the traveler to incredible park views. If you're near woodlands or boglands, catch a glimpse of wildlife like deer, eagles, otters, and foxes. If you're looking for a mountain overlook view, you can park to hike a trail that best fits your travel desires. Or if you'd rather drive, head to Ladies View, named after Queen Victoria's ladies-in-waiting favorite view. The view paints a summary of the park- winding rivers through mountain passes, each season bringing its own beauty. When you need a break stop for a pint at the Ladies' View Rooftop Bar.

Valentia Island - Geokaun Mountains

Located just east of the national park, the Ring of Kerry takes you to Valentia Island. Take a drive or park and hike to the highest point and lookout on the island from the Geokaun Mountains. Along this route, you'll see Dingle Bay to your west (another of our favorites), islands to the north, and the Kerry Mountains to your east as you ascend to what can only be described as a breathtaking view. Even if you drive, you'll want to step out and walk around the lookout. Pro-tip: pack a lunch for a picnic at the summit stop for incredible 360 views.

Gap of Dunloe

When you get to the Gap of Dunloe, the main road into the area does not permit cars. The sign literally says its for pedestrians and cattle- how Ireland is that? Don't let this steer you away from the hidden gem of this passage between two mountains. Instead, travel by boat down the Gearhameen River with a guided tour, take a horse around the passage, or park and hike the area for incredibly scenic views of the river and adorable village between mountain tops. Stop at Ross Castle on the lake to explore the grounds and hear about the mysterious history that haunts the castle to this day!

Sneem

If you want to experience the magic of Ireland at an easy-going pace, stop to walk around the village of Sneem with brightly colored shops and pubs. The magic is not just in the postcard-worthy town with its stone built bridges overlooking the rushing river to a view of the ocean, but also with the fairies. Yep- this place is riddled with fairy folklore. In fact, you can take a peaceful walk along a path famously known as "The Way the Fairies Went", looking at stone pyramids that line the path and overlooking the rushing river. We hope you come home with a fairy sighting to tell us about!

Skellig Islands

Yes - we already suggested an island drive, but experiencing the Skelligs is simply a must-see. Made up of Skellig Michael and Little Skellig islands, you must take a boat tour to see them from every angle. The Skelligs are known for the incredible bird watching opportunities (Puffins. Need we say more?). Once on the island, explore the paths along the rocky cliffs of emerald overlooking the ocean's blue, which may start to look familiar to Star Wars fans. Both The Force Awakens and The Last Jedi had filming locations to create the world of Ahch To. After a day at sea and on land, you must stop at the Skellig Chocolate Factory for a local treat.

The Ring of Kerry: How to Chose Where to Go

The Ring of Kerry is a wonderful way to see Ireland in all its green glory. We know it can be a full day of driving, but we have to be honest: don't bite off more than you can chew in one day. A pint at Ladies' View Rooftop bar at noon, hiking for a picnic in Valentia at 2pm, a boat tour along the Skelligs at 4pm, and hoping to make it for a walk with fairies somewhere in between may not be feasible for just one day. The best way to enjoy a road trip is to be flexible and soak in the views. We suggest to narrow down what type of experiences you want to prioritize. If you're an active couple - maybe it's a Geokaun hike; if you are a foodie - you may want to get to that Chocolate Factory; or if you're looking to window shop and see more people than views, a walk around Skeem to fairy-find is the way to go. Pick what makes your heart leap for Ireland because the reality is that you can't go wrong on the Ring of Kerry.