The Ring of Kerry (Ireland #3)

First and foremost, I advise you to be in good shape before you start. the Ring of Kerry. In fact, the ring itself is around 180km long, and can be covered by car, bus or even by bike for the more athletic riders! (who don't mind steep hills). Don't forget to fill up before you leave, as there aren't petrol pumps everywhere!

But before you set off along the Ring of Kerry, be aware that the roads can be winding, narrow and steep. There are a lot of tourists on the roads, and some places can be tricky! That's why we'd also advise you to travel clockwise through the Ring, and to set off early in the morning or at the end of the day. (less road traffic)

For hikers, there is a circuit of over 200km, called the "Kerry Way"starting from Killarney.

There are parking areas along the way where you can stop (and take some much-needed photos!!). You'll be able to see the Kerry mountains, Ireland's highest peaks, including Carrantuohill (for experienced hikers only), and don't miss the view of Killarney national park (panoramic above) just past Muckross House. This photo was taken from a spot called Ladies View. Named after Queen Victoria and her ladies-in-waiting stopped here because she was so taken with the view!

Alternatively, if you prefer the seaside, you can choose from the rocky, rugged beaches of Kenmare Bay, for example. At the end of the day, the light is particularly captivating!

So don't hesitate to stop off in the small villages. You will pass through Kenmare, Sneem, Waterville, Knightstown (on Valentia Island), Caherciveen and KillorglinIt's well worth stopping off to visit the typical pubs and other tourist shops... It's got a great atmosphere!

If you want to visit Valentia Island, you can either drive for about 10 km (20 km round trip) or take the ferry (for a fee). There are a few houses, a nice hotel/pub and a lovely view to take a break! You'll be just over halfway along the route.

If you've started the tour in a clockwise direction, the northern part of the ring is generally easier to drive, as the road is much better. As it's been about 3 hours on the road so far (including stops), it's always nice to know that the hardest part is over!

So much for what seemed to me to be the most important thing to describe about the Ring of Kerry. In the same vein, I think that a 4th article will be necessary to cover the whole of the Ring of Kerry. the Dingle Peninsula, and the famous lakes of Connemara!

See you soon for more Irish adventures, and article #4

Photographically yours,

David