The best and most scenic cycle routes in Kerry can easily claim to be amongst some of the best cycling routes in Ireland thanks to the great experience that they offer.
County Kerry is often known by its nickname “The Kingdom” and this seems quite fitting as there are many jewels to admire in the Kingdom of Kerry.
These range from its natural beauty and untamed scenery, which can be best appreciated on its many brilliant cycling routes that traverse the county’s landscape.
In this article, we reveal the top five best and most scenic cycle routes in Kerry that everyone needs to experience.
5. Caragh Lake to Lough Acoose to Killorglin – a short but picturesque route
While this route is quite short overall, it is certainly still worth doing as it is a very picturesque route full of great sights and scenic routes.
Starting at Caragh Lake, this route will bring you through the hills of Glencar to the peaceful Lough Acoose, which rests under the gaze of Ireland’s three highest mountains.
This is the highest point on the route and one from which you should take some time to admire the stunning and panoramic views before heading on to Killorglin, making it a truly rewarding climb.
Total distance: 41 km (25 miles)
Total time: 2 hours
Level: Beginner to intermediate
Starting point: Caragh Lake, Oolagh West, Co. Kerry, Ireland
4. Black Valley Loop – experience one of Ireland’s most beautiful landscapes
The Black Valley Loop is a great trip and one that everyone should do when in Kerry. The loop is a 56 km (34 mile) track and is regarded as being one of the best cycle routes in Ireland, as well as being one of the most popular trails in the country.
The route rewards visitors with spectacular views of the Lakes of Killarney, Gap of Dunloe, and Molls Gap, some of the Kingdom’s finest scenery.
This route is recommended for more experienced cyclists as it will require you to work up quite a sweat. Still, it certainly is worth it for the chance to gaze at some truly beautiful landscapes.
Total distance: 56 km (34 miles)
Total time: 3-4 hours
Level: Intermediate
Starting point: Killarney, County Kerry, Ireland
3. Ballaghisheen Pass to Cahersiveen to The Wild Atlantic Way – experience the wonder of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way
One of our favourite routes on the list of the best and most scenic cycle routes in Kerry, this will first bring you through the vast valley of Upper Glencar before tackling the Ballaghasheen Pass, which is one of Kerry’s toughest climbs.
After tackling that arduous climb, you will then descend onto the coastal town of Cahersiveen. Here, you can stop for a bite to eat or to grab a coffee in one of the local cafes.
Finally, you will then proceed onto the N70, where you will now be officially entering the world-famous Wild Atlantic Way route in all its glory with its mesmerising coastal roads.
Total distance: 76 km (47 miles)
Total time: 4 hours
Level: Intermediate to Hard
Starting point: Ballaghisheen Pass, Co. Kerry, Ireland
2. Killarney, Moll’s Gap, Ballaghbeama Gap, Caragh Lake – an exhilarating route that brings you through Killarney
This exciting route brings you through some beautiful scenery that perfectly showcases everything that Killarney has to offer from its luxurious landscapes.
While Killarney is famous for attractions such as the National Park, Muckross House & Gardens, and Ross Castle to name but a few, there are also many other sights to see and admire.
Luckily, you will have the time and opportunity to discover while travelling on this cycle route.
Total distance: 95 km (59 miles)
Total time: 5 hours
Level: Difficult
Starting point: Killarney, Co. Kerry, Ireland
1. The Ring of Kerry – one of the best cycling routes in Ireland
In first place on our list of the best and most scenic cycle routes in Kerry is the Ring of Kerry route. This is not only in our opinion the best cycling route in Kerry but also one of the best in Ireland.
The scenic Ring of Kerry looped route stretches over 179 km (111 miles) and offers a simply spectacular experience that is truly a feast for the eyes with winding roads and a coastal route.
This route begins and ends in Killarney town and covers Killarney National Park and other popular sights as well as the ocean road along the Atlantic Ocean.
Total distance: 175 km (108 miles)
Total time: 9 hours
Level: Difficult
Starting point: Killarney, Co. Kerry, Ireland
That concludes our article on the top five best and most scenic cycle routes in Kerry that everyone should experience at least once. Have you cycled any of them yet?
Other notable mentions
Slea Head Loop from Dingle: Beginning and ending in Dingle, this scenic loop route showcases the fantastic views that the western end of the Dingle Peninsula has to offer.
Connor Pass – Dingle Loop from Tralee Casement: Not one for the faint-hearted, the route from Conor Pass is narrow, twisting, dramatic, and beautiful all in equal measure. The views from high on the route are truly breathtaking.
Inch Beach – Ballyfinnane – The Shanty Bar Loop from Tralee Casement: This is a charming cycle route that rewards visitors with some simply stunning scenic views encompassing a Blue Flag Beach.
FAQs about the best and most scenic cycle routes in Kerry
How long does it take to bike the Ring of Kerry?
Overall, any person of a reasonable fitness level should be able to cycle the entire Ring of Kerry within a single day.
Where does the Ring of Kerry cycle start and finish?
The Ring of Kerry cycle route is the ring road (N70) that circumnavigates the Iveagh Peninsula that runs from Killarney to Kenmare and passes the villages of Sneem and Caherdaniel before heading north along the Skellig Road and alongside the Northern shores of the peninsula before finishing back in Killarney town.
Can you cycle through Killarney National Park?
Yes, you can cycle through Killarney National Park and take in its stunning scenery, such as Muckross Abbey.
Can you cycle the Kerry Way?
Yes anyone who has a decent level of fitness regardless of being an amateur or professional cyclist should be well able to cycle the Kerry Way and have the opportunity to enjoy and explore the beauty that Kerry has to offer.
