Ireland’s ‘kingdom’ county is steeped in beauty, mystery, and history. Here are five must-see places in Kerry to add to your bucket list.
Kerry is a county full of jaw-dropping landscapes, and it is also one of the most popular counties to visit in Ireland. As such, there are many must-see places in Kerry that should be on everyone’s bucket list.
This county, nicknamed ‘the kingdom’, has many places that can easily earn a post on anyone’s bucket list, and for good reason, as Kerry is steeped in beauty, mystery, and history.
Here we list the top five must-see places in Kerry that everyone should see in their lifetime.
5. Kenmare – ‘the head of the sea’
Kenmare is commonly known as ‘the head of the sea’ and is also Kerry’s first heritage town. There are many unforgettable things one can do in Kenmare, from trekking on horseback with a beautiful backdrop to dining in some of Ireland’s finest restaurants.
Kenmare is not only on the Ring of Kerry, but is also located on the Ring of Beara, which is another well-regarded tourist trail.
4. The Skellig Islands – of Star Wars fame
The Skellig Islands have seen a meteoric rise in popularity in recent years and has become a firm fixture on many people’s bucket lists thanks to its use as a filming location for Star Wars: The Force Awakens and more recently Star Wars: The Last Jedi. You can even walk in the same footsteps as Luke Skywalker himself.
However, even if you aren’t a big fan of Star Wars, Skellig Michael still has a lot to offer, as not only is it a place of heavenly beauty surrounded by the sea, but it is also home to a colony of Atlantic puffins who nest there during the warmer months.
3. Killarney National Park – a place of stunning natural beauty
Killarney National Park was the first official national park in Ireland and has become a place of stunning beauty. It was certified by UNESCO, and besides having beautiful forests and trails, it can also lay claim to being home to a herd of majestic red deer.
Killarney National Park can be explored a number of ways, such as by foot, bike, boat tours, pony rides, and jaunting cars (horse-drawn carriages). Kayaking and canoeing can also be enjoyed on the freshwater lakes, but you will require a permit in advance.
2. The Dingle Peninsula – for magnificent scenery and coastal charm
Dingle is a beautifully quaint little port town renowned for its magnificent strands and very own resident dolphin, Fungie. It is very popular with tourists, especially in the summer season, and this is probably due to the fact that unlike a lot of other Irish towns, Dingle has retained its original charm and old look and can even boast to include one of the remaining grocery-bars in Ireland.
For those who wish to have a few drinks in pubs bursting with charm and traditional music, then Dingle has you covered. If you wish to spend the sunny days on a beach that has appeared in many Hollywood movies including the Oscar-winning Ryan’s Daughter, then you can do that too at the brilliant Inch beach.
1. Ring of Kerry
The Ring of Kerry is a ring road around the Iveragh Peninsula that contains some of the most stunning views in the world. The Ring of Kerry can be driven in approximately three hours, but for the best experience, it’s recommended to spread it over as many days as you can.
The Ring of Kerry starts from Killarney, and the route takes you through Killarney National Park before you reach Moll’s Gap, from which you can witness Ireland’s highest peak of the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks.
Other highlights on the Ring of Kerry to watch out for include the picturesque town of Kenmare, Derrynane beach, and the Skellig Islands, to name but a few.
By including these five places on your Kerry bucket list, you will be sure to have a great holiday and the experience of a lifetime. If you think there are any other must-see places in Kerry that aren’t included here already, then please make sure to let us know!
